Intro: Discover France’s Most Charming Seaside Towns
Imagine waking up to the soothing sound of waves, the salty sea breeze filling the air as you sip your morning coffee overlooking a charming harbor. Whether you’re dreaming of tranquil beaches, historic fishing villages, or sun-soaked Mediterranean retreats, France’s coastline offers an array of hidden gems waiting to be explored.
Beyond the glitz and glamour of the French Riviera, there are countless picturesque seaside towns perfect for a laid-back escape. This guide uncovers some of the best off-the-beaten-path coastal destinations in France—each offering a unique blend of culture, history, and breathtaking scenery.
From Île de Ré’s bike-friendly beaches to Saint-Malo’s fortified city walls, discover the perfect coastal town for your next relaxing getaway.
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1. Île de Ré – A Tranquil Island Retreat
🌍 Region: Nouvelle-Aquitaine (Atlantic Coast)
🏖 Best for: Cycling, fresh seafood, and laid-back beach days
Nestled off France’s Atlantic coast, Île de Ré is a dreamy island escape known for its whitewashed villages, wild beaches, and an abundance of cycling trails. Unlike the more crowded Riviera, this peaceful island offers a slower pace of life, where visitors can explore at their leisure.
Top Attractions & Activities
- 🚲 Cycle Through Salt Marshes & Vineyards – With over 100 km of bike paths, cycling is the best way to explore the island’s charming coastal scenery.
- 🏰 Saint-Martin-de-Ré – A UNESCO-listed fortified port town with pastel-colored shutters and cobblestone streets.
- 🏝 Plage de la Conche des Baleines – A stunning stretch of golden sand, perfect for families and nature lovers.
- 🔭 Phare des Baleines Lighthouse – Climb to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic.
Local Experiences
- 🍽 Taste the island’s famous oysters at an open-air seafood shack in Ars-en-Ré.
- 🏡 Stay in a charming seaside cottage for a true French coastal experience.
📆 Best Time to Visit: Spring to early autumn (April–September) for mild weather and fewer crowds.
🚉 How to Get to Île de Ré
🚗 By Car: Cross the Île de Ré bridge from La Rochelle (toll applies). Driving gives you freedom to explore hidden beaches and villages at your own pace.
🚆 By Train: Take a train to La Rochelle via Omio, then connect by bus or taxi to the island.
🛩 By Air: La Rochelle–Île de Ré Airport has seasonal flights from several European cities.
🛏️ Where to Stay on Île de Ré
1. Hôtel de Toiras – 📍 Saint-Martin-de-Ré
✨ Elegant 5-star stay overlooking the port, blending classic French charm with modern comfort. Ideal for couples and families seeking luxury in the island’s UNESCO-listed town.
Check availability here
2. Hôtel Le Sénéchal – 📍 Ars-en-Ré
✨ Chic boutique hotel in one of France’s “Most Beautiful Villages,” just steps from the harbor. Cozy, stylish rooms and easy access to oyster shacks and cycling paths.
See rates & reviews
3. Les Bois Flottais – 📍 Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré
✨ Relaxed retreat surrounded by pine trees, offering an outdoor pool and family-friendly atmosphere. Perfect for beach lovers, with sandy shores just a short stroll away.
Book your stay
💡 Tip: Île de Ré is especially popular in summer—book your stay early to secure the best options near beaches and cycling routes.
2. Saint-Malo – A Seafaring City Steeped in History
🌍 Region: Brittany (Northern France)
🏖 Best for: History lovers, families, and seafood enthusiasts
Once a notorious pirate stronghold, Saint-Malo is one of Brittany’s most captivating coastal towns. Surrounded by thick stone walls and perched along the rugged English Channel, this town exudes medieval charm while offering stunning beaches and fascinating maritime history.
Top Attractions & Activities
- 🏰 Walk the Ramparts – Saint-Malo’s Intra-Muros (walled city) offers stunning sea views and a glimpse into its medieval past.
- ⛵ Explore Grand Bé & Petit Bé – At low tide, walk to these historic tidal islets for panoramic ocean views.
- 🏖 Plage du Sillon – A wide sandy beach perfect for families with tidal pools and soft waves.
Local Experiences
- 🥞 Savor a traditional Breton crêpe with caramelized butter and cider.
- 📚 Visit the house of Chateaubriand, one of France’s greatest writers.
📆 Best Time to Visit: June to September, when the weather is warm and the Saint-Malo Jazz Festival adds a lively touch.
🚉 How to Get to Saint-Malo
🚗 By Car: About 4 hours from Paris. Driving is handy if you want to combine Saint-Malo with Mont Saint-Michel or Dinan.
🚆 By Train: Direct high-speed TGV from Paris to Saint-Malo via Omio takes ~2 hours 15 minutes.
🛩 By Air: Dinard–Pleurtuit–Saint-Malo Airport is 15 minutes away and serves seasonal flights.
🛏️ Where to Stay in Saint-Malo
1. Hôtel Le Nouveau Monde – 📍 Seafront, Saint-Malo
✨ Stylish 4-star hotel with panoramic sea views, spa facilities, and a gourmet restaurant. Perfect for travelers wanting both relaxation and easy access to the walled city.
Check availability here
2. Hôtel Oceania Saint-Malo – 📍 Near Sillon Beach
✨ Modern, family-friendly hotel offering bright rooms with sea views and a prime location just steps from the beach and ramparts.
See rates & reviews
3. La Maison des Armateurs – 📍 Intra-Muros, Saint-Malo
✨ Elegant boutique hotel in the heart of the old town, combining historic charm with contemporary comfort—ideal for cultural explorers.
Book your stay
💡 Tip: Saint-Malo is a popular summer destination—secure your hotel early, especially if you want to stay inside the walled city or along the seafront.
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3. Cassis – A Mediterranean Gem with Calanques
🌍 Region: Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (Southern France)
🏖 Best for: Scenic boat trips, wine lovers, and nature enthusiasts
Tucked between dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters, Cassis is one of France’s most charming Mediterranean retreats. Surrounded by vineyards and famous for its Calanques (fjords), this town offers a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
Top Attractions & Activities
- 🛶 Explore the Calanques National Park – Take a boat tour or kayak to discover breathtaking limestone cliffs plunging into crystal-clear waters.
- 🌄 Hike Cap Canaille – One of Europe’s highest sea cliffs offering spectacular sunset views.
- 🍷 Wine Tasting in Cassis Vineyards – The region is known for its refreshing white wines, perfect for a warm Mediterranean day.
Local Experiences
- 🚤 Take a sunset boat tour along the calanques for unforgettable coastal views.
- 🍽 Enjoy a seafood feast at a waterfront bistro—try the famous Bouillabaisse (Provencal fish stew).
📆 Best Time to Visit: May to October, with warm Mediterranean weather ideal for outdoor activities.
🚉 How to Get to Cassis
🚗 By Car: 40 minutes from Marseille, perfect for scenic drives along the Route des Crêtes.
🚆 By Train: Regular trains from Marseille to Cassis (via Omio), then a short bus or taxi ride into town.
🛩 By Air: Marseille Provence Airport is about 45 minutes away by car or airport shuttle.
🛏️ Where to Stay in Cassis
1. Hôtel Les Roches Blanches – 📍 Seafront, Cassis
✨ Luxury boutique hotel with panoramic Mediterranean views, an infinity pool, and elegant rooms. Perfect for couples and travelers seeking a romantic retreat.
Check availability here
2. Best Western Plus Hôtel La Rade – 📍 Near Cassis Harbor
✨ Comfortable, well-located stay with a pool and easy access to boat tours of the Calanques. Ideal for families and first-time visitors.
See rates & reviews
3. Le Jardin d’Emile – 📍 Steps from Bestouan Beach
✨ Charming, colorful hotel with garden terraces and sea views, offering a warm, Provençal atmosphere.
Book your stay
💡 Tip: Cassis is a small town with limited accommodations—book early, especially during summer and wine harvest season.
4. Honfleur – Normandy’s Storybook Harbor Town
🌍 Region: Normandy (Northern France)
🏖 Best for: Art lovers, foodies, and history buffs
With its half-timbered houses, historic harbor, and artistic heritage, Honfleur is one of France’s most picturesque coastal towns. Once a favorite of Impressionist painters like Monet, its scenic charm and maritime legacy make it a must-visit destination.
Top Attractions & Activities
- 🎨 Vieux Bassin Harbor – A stunning, postcard-perfect port that has inspired generations of artists.
- ⛪ Saint Catherine’s Church – France’s largest wooden church, built by shipbuilders.
- 🖼 Eugène Boudin Museum – A tribute to the Impressionist movement and Normandy’s artistic history.
Local Experiences
- 🧀 Try local Camembert cheese paired with Normandy’s famous Calvados apple brandy.
- 🛍 Stroll through the weekly open-air market for fresh produce and handcrafted souvenirs.
📆 Best Time to Visit: Spring and early autumn for mild weather and fewer tourists.
🚉 How to Get to Honfleur
🚗 By Car: 2.5 hours from Paris, driving is the most convenient option as Honfleur has no train station.
🚆 By Train: Closest stations are Deauville or Le Havre (book via Omio), followed by a short bus or taxi ride.
🛩 By Air: Deauville–Normandie Airport is just 15 minutes away.
🛏️ Where to Stay in Honfleur
1. La Ferme Saint Simeon – 📍 Overlooking the Seine Estuary
✨ Historic 17th-century inn turned luxury hotel, once a retreat for Impressionist painters. Features a spa, gourmet dining, and beautiful gardens.
Check availability here
2. Les Maisons de Léa – 📍 Steps from Vieux Bassin Harbor
✨ Boutique charm with elegantly decorated rooms, a cozy library lounge, and an excellent breakfast. Perfect for art and culture lovers.
See rates & reviews
3. Hôtel L’Ecrin – 📍 In Honfleur’s historic center
✨ Elegant 18th-century property with a heated outdoor pool, private gardens, and antique furnishings.
Book your stay
💡 Tip: Honfleur is especially popular during spring and art festival weekends—book well in advance for the best options.
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5. Collioure – A Vibrant Catalan Seaside Escape
🌍 Region: Occitanie (Southern France)
🏖 Best for: Colorful scenery, Catalan culture, and coastal hikes
Situated near the Spanish border, Collioure blends French and Catalan influences, offering stunning waterfront views and a lively artistic heritage.
Top Attractions & Activities
- 🏰 Château Royal de Collioure – A medieval fortress with panoramic sea views.
- ⛪ Église Notre-Dame-des-Anges – A stunning waterfront church with an iconic bell tower.
- 🌿 Sentier du Littoral – A coastal hiking trail with breathtaking Mediterranean views.
Local Experiences
- 🐟 Try Collioure’s famous anchovies, a regional delicacy celebrated each summer.
- 🎭 Explore local art galleries featuring works inspired by Matisse and Derain.
📆 Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn, when the town hosts cultural festivals and markets.
🚉 How to Get to Collioure
🚗 By Car: 30 minutes from Perpignan, a beautiful coastal drive near the Spanish border.
🚆 By Train: Regular trains from Perpignan to Collioure via Omio, taking about 30 minutes.
🛩 By Air: Perpignan–Rivesaltes Airport is 40 minutes away, with connections to Paris and seasonal European destinations.
🛏️ Where to Stay in Collioure
1. Hôtel Casa Païral – 📍 Heart of Collioure’s Old Town
✨ Charming 19th-century mansion with a lush garden and outdoor pool, just steps from the beach and harbor.
Check availability here
2. Le Relais des Trois Mas – 📍 Overlooking the bay of Collioure
✨ Boutique hotel offering panoramic sea views, direct beach access, and a Michelin-starred restaurant.
See rates & reviews
💡 Tip: Collioure’s small-town charm means hotels book up fast in summer—reserve early if you’re visiting during festival season.
Best Time to Visit — At a Glance
Use this quick-reference guide to pick the right month for each seaside town. Weather and crowd levels are approximate and can vary year to year.
| Destination | Best months | Weather snapshot | Crowds | Notes & seasonal highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Île de Ré | April – September | Mild → warm; breezy Atlantic days, cool evenings | Light in spring; peak in July–August | Ideal cycling and beach weather; reserve bikes & family rooms early in summer |
| Saint-Malo | June – September | Pleasant, rarely too hot; sea breezes | Busy in summer, especially on weekends | Ramparts & tidal islets shine at low tide; summer jazz events add buzz |
| Cassis | May – October | Sunny Mediterranean; hot in July–August, lovely sea temps | High in summer; moderate in shoulder seasons | Calanques boat/kayak best on calm mornings; wine-harvest energy in September |
| Honfleur | April – June & September – October | Mild and changeable; sunny spells with light showers | Comfortable shoulder seasons; summer weekends busier | Excellent light for photography; markets & art events feel calmer off-peak |
| Collioure | May – October (best: June & September) | Warm & sunny; breezy days, very hot midsummer | Lively in July–August; relaxed in shoulder months | Sentier du Littoral hikes; anchovy celebrations and an artsy summer atmosphere |
Tip: For peak months (July–August) and festival weekends, book hotels and activities well in advance — and aim for early starts to beat heat and crowds.
Memorable Mentions: Hidden Coastal Gems Worth Exploring
In addition to the featured towns, here are some lesser-known coastal destinations in France that deserve a spot on your travel list:
- Leucate – A paradise for windsurfers and seafood lovers, offering wild beaches and fresh oysters.
- Etretat – Known for its dramatic white chalk cliffs and natural rock arches. A must-visit for photographers and nature lovers.
- La Rochelle – A lively port city with a rich maritime history, charming arcades, and one of the most picturesque old harbors in France.
- Menton – A charming Riviera town near the Italian border, famous for its colorful streets, citrus gardens, and Belle Époque architecture.
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Conclusion: Your Next Seaside Escape Awaits
From Île de Ré’s tranquil beaches to Cassis’ breathtaking Calanques, France’s coastline is filled with diverse and unforgettable coastal towns. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family-friendly retreat, or a deep dive into history and local culture, there’s a perfect seaside escape waiting for you.
So, which of these destinations has made it onto your travel bucket list? Let us know in the comments below!
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Frequently Asked Questions About France’s Best Coastal Towns
Q: What is the best time of year to visit France’s coastal towns?
A: Late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September) offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower accommodation rates. Summer (July–August) has the warmest beach weather but is the busiest and priciest season, especially in popular towns like Cassis and Saint-Malo.
Q: Which of these coastal towns are best for families with children?
A: Île de Ré and Saint-Malo are excellent choices for families. Île de Ré offers bike-friendly paths, calm beaches, and safe swimming spots, while Saint-Malo has tide pools, sandy beaches, and plenty of kid-friendly eateries.
Q: How can I get between different seaside towns in France without renting a car?
Q: Are these destinations suitable for budget travelers?
A: Yes. While some areas like Cassis can be pricey, there are ways to save—traveling in the shoulder season, booking accommodations through price comparison sites like Booking.com or Expedia, and choosing self-catering stays can help keep costs down.
Q: Which towns offer the most authentic cultural experiences?
A: Honfleur and Collioure are especially rich in culture. Honfleur’s historic harbor and art heritage offer a deep dive into Normandy’s past, while Collioure blends French and Catalan traditions in its food, festivals, and architecture.
Q: Can I find good local tours or activities in these towns?
A: Absolutely. Many towns offer boat trips, walking tours, and food tastings. Platforms like GetYourGuide or Viator can help you find and book guided experiences, from exploring the Calanques near Cassis to discovering Saint-Malo’s tidal islands.
Q: Is it easy to manage money while traveling along the French coast?
A: Yes, but using a multi-currency travel card like Wise can help you avoid high foreign transaction fees and get better exchange rates, especially if you’re traveling from outside the Eurozone.
Q: Are these coastal towns accessible for short weekend trips?
A: Yes. Many are reachable within a few hours from major cities like Paris, Bordeaux, or Marseille. For instance, you can take a high-speed TGV train from Paris to La Rochelle or Saint-Malo for a quick seaside escape.
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