Best Beach Destinations In France To Spend L'Eté Holidays

Summer anywhere always means taking long trips, going on camping, or enjoying the scenic beauty, fine sand and cool waters of beaches. In France, l'été (summer) is a great time for such activities, especially since practically all businesses, offices, and schools are closed during this long period.

Although France is not always on top of the list of summer vacation destinations, those who've been to this beautiful country were quick to realize that its geographical position makes it really an ideal summer getaway, with miles and miles of beaches that line its shores. This is because France is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, two of the world's vast bodies of water.

Here are some of the best beach destinations in France where summer vacationers can have a really good time:

Villefranche-sur-Mer:

This beach destination is famous for its coarse sand and tranquil environment. It's a low-profile getaway ideal for those who prefer a quieter time. The place is also highly preferred by sunbathers. Visitors here will find a market, a few cafes, and some shops. The beach is just a few minutes away from the city of Nice.

Cap Ferret:

This place is a cape that forms a sandspit. To the east lies the Arcachon Bay, while the Atlantic Ocean lies to the west. This makes it an ideal resort, as it provides beaches on either side. The beaches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, surfing, and even fishing. The place is noted for its famous lighthouse and vacationers have no problem with accommodation as there are hotels right inside here. The resort is very near the port city of Bordeaux.

Argeles-sur-Mer:

This is one of the most frequented resorts in France during l'été holidays. The beach stretches along the entire length of the popular French Red Coast ("Cote Vermeille"). Shops and cafes add to vacationers' convenience here. The place is close to Perpignan, the capital of the Pyrénées-Orientales department, and is a short drive to Spain.

Saint-Jean de Luz:

This is another one of the favorite beach destinations in France, especially because of its fine sand. The place sits right in the center of the Northern Basque Country. A vacationer to this place often gets the feeling of still being in a city because of the many shops, cafes, and markets that are present here. The feeling, of course, is more of an appreciation for such conveniences than anything else.

La Grande Motte:

Among French vacationers, this resort is perhaps the most popular. One will find that time quickly passes here because of the many things he/she can do in this place. Besides the usual beach activities, such as swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, those who spend their summer here can also enjoy playing tennis or golf, go on nature hiking, or catch sight of white horses and flamingoes. Children can also have a great time at the resort's water park.

Of course there are many other beach destinations in France that are equally great as those already mentioned here. Those in the coasts of Brittany and Normandy, for example, are ideal places as well for l'été getaway.