When it comes to lists of top beaches in the world, the stretches of golden sand that are dotted around Europe are right up with the best. The South of France, however, is somewhere very special when it comes to beaches. This one time playground of the rich and famous is highly accessible with France’s TGV high speed trains , and affordable to all, and we are now free to enjoy the delights of these top 5 beaches in the South of France.
Vias Plage
Located in between Valras Plage and Cap d’Agde, the relatively small bay that is Vias Plage has some of the warmest waters you will find anywhere in the South of France. Many are surprised to see a beach that isn’t exactly bursting with facilities ranked as one of the best beaches in an area packed with stunning bays, but when you look at the overall package of the location, the pristine sands and aforementioned waters, and the fact that even in the height of summer it is never crowded, it really should not be so surprising to see it on the list.
Rochelonge Plage
This is probably the best of the many beaches in Cap d’Agde, and is situated right in the heart of this popular tourist area. Holidaymakers flock here and it has been named as one of the best beaches in the South of France many times. Those who can drag themselves away from the golden sands for a while can take refreshments in the lovely beach side bar and restaurant, and enjoy a drink or a meal while taking in the breath taking views of the entire bay and all the way down to Narbonne Plage.
>> Read our guide to the best pop up beach tents
Point Zero Plage
Whilst the town of La Grande-Motte, with its modern urbanisation and pyramid shaped hotels, there is no denying that its Point Zero beach is something very special. Visually, it is stunning and with so much on offer it is the ideal beach for both adults and children. There is an abundance of bars and restaurants along the sea front just a few steps from the lush sands and even those who choose to give the town a miss completely can have everything they want at the waters edge.
Gruissan Plage
This beach is next to Narbonne Plage, and it is a close run thing to pick one between the two, but Gruissan gets the nod as the town behind it is so much nicer to visit. This beach has the wide expanse of flat sand which is the trademark of beaches in this area, and you are guaranteed a great spot even in the height of summer. Gruissan Plage became famous when the film Betty Blue was filmed here, and the beach huts on stilts next to the beach are still there, and the focus for many a holiday snap.
Valras Plage
This is very much typical if the beach resorts found in the South of France with a plethora of decent eateries, a picturesque harbour and plenty to keep the shoppers happy, The wide expanse of sands at Valras Plage is large enough to accommodate vast numbers of holiday makers, with enough room for you all to spread out and relax without being on top of each other. There is much to do in close proximity to the beach too, such as the adventure park at the harbour in the summer months, and the fairground rides alongside it.
View South of France in a larger map
noel says
those all look like amazing beaches to hang out in, thanks for sharing
Liguria says
Beaches in Liguria, italy are so close to south france but so different, maybe the climate is better but they are still too crowded for my taste