Arras Beaches

Overview

While Arras is a charming inland city, it serves as an excellent gateway to the stunning Opal Coast, located just over an hour away. This makes it a perfect base for travelers who wish to combine rich history and culture with refreshing seaside day trips. The coastline offers a diverse array of vast, sandy beaches lining the English Channel, providing a dramatic change of scenery from the city's historic squares.

Our editor's picks highlight the variety you can expect from a coastal excursion. For ultimate convenience, Plage de Boulogne is easily reached by a direct train, placing you on a wide, sandy beach in France's largest fishing port. If you prefer a more local atmosphere, Plage de Wimereux is a favorite, known for its beautiful promenade and elegant Belle Époque villas that line the seafront. For a truly unique experience, Plage de Berck-sur-Mer is a must-see, famous for its international kite festival and the remarkable sight of a large seal colony resting on the sandbanks.

Beyond these selections, the Opal Coast has even more to offer. The chic resort town of Le Touquet-Paris-Plage provides a stylish alternative with its lively atmosphere and beautiful architecture nestled between the forest and the sea. Each beach destination possesses its own distinct character, from tranquil natural settings to bustling family-friendly resorts. For a comprehensive look at all the seaside options available for your day trip from Arras, be sure to explore our longer list of the region's best beaches.

FAQ

People Also Ask

Are there any beaches in Arras?

No, Arras is an inland city and does not have any natural sea beaches. It is located about an hour's drive from the nearest coastline, the Opal Coast. However, for a local 'beach' experience, you can visit the Base Nautique de Saint-Laurent-Blangy, a leisure park just outside the city with a lake for water sports and a riverside park area.

How far is Arras from the sea?

Arras is approximately 100 to 120 kilometers (about 62 to 75 miles) from the popular beaches of the Opal Coast (Côte d'Opale). The drive typically takes between 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on your specific coastal destination.

What are the closest beaches to Arras?

The closest major beaches to Arras are on the Opal Coast. Berck-sur-Mer is one of the nearest and is famous for its vast sandy beach and seal colony. Other popular options include the elegant resort town of Le Touquet-Paris-Plage, and the family-friendly beaches of Merlimont and Stella-Plage.

Plage de Stella

Is Arras a good base for a beach holiday?

Arras is an excellent base for a cultural and historical holiday, but it is not a typical beach destination. Its central location in the region makes it a practical base for taking day trips to the Opal Coast, allowing you to combine city sightseeing with a day or two at the seaside.

Which is better for a day trip from Arras: Le Touquet or Berck-sur-Mer?

The choice depends on your preference. Le Touquet-Paris-Plage is known for its chic atmosphere, upscale shops, elegant architecture, and lively restaurant scene, making it ideal for couples or those seeking a stylish resort feel. Berck-sur-Mer offers a more traditional, family-focused seaside experience with a huge beach, a bustling esplanade, and the unique opportunity to see a large colony of harbor seals.

Can you swim in the sea on the Opal Coast? What is the water like?

Yes, you can swim in the English Channel off the Opal Coast, but the water is notably cold, even in summer. Average sea temperatures in July and August typically range from 15°C to 19°C (59°F to 66°F). The beaches are vast and sandy, but it is crucial to be aware of the strong tides.

What is the best time of year for a beach trip from Arras?

For swimming and sunbathing, the best time for a beach day trip is from late June to early September when the weather is warmest. However, the Opal Coast is a popular year-round destination for walking, kite-flying, and sand yachting, with spring and autumn offering beautiful scenery with fewer crowds.

Are the beaches near Arras good for families?

Yes, many beaches on the Opal Coast are very family-friendly. Berck-sur-Mer and Fort-Mahon-Plage are particularly recommended for families due to their immense sandy beaches, supervised swimming areas in summer, and promenades with amenities like ice cream shops and carousels.

How do you get to the coast from Arras without a car?

Traveling by public transport is possible but often requires at least one connection. The most common route is taking a regional (TER) train from Arras to Étaples-Le Touquet or Boulogne-sur-Mer. The journey can take around two hours. From the destination train station, you may need a local bus to reach the beachfront.

Are there any beaches with cliffs near Arras?

Yes, for dramatic scenery, you can visit the 'Grand Site des Deux Caps,' located north of Boulogne-sur-Mer. This site features the famous white chalk cliffs of Cap Blanc-Nez and the grey cliffs of Cap Gris-Nez. The beaches at the base of these cliffs, such as the one in Wissant, are wild and offer spectacular views.

What should I know about the tides on the Opal Coast?

The tides are very significant on the Opal Coast, with a large tidal range that can cause the sea to retreat hundreds of meters. It is essential to check the tide times ('horaires des marées') before walking far out on the sand, as the tide can come in very quickly, potentially cutting people off.

Is there an urban beach in Arras itself?

Yes, during the summer months, the city often organizes 'Arras on the Beach' ('Arras sur la Plage'). This event transforms one of the city's main squares, typically the Grand'Place, into a temporary urban beach with sand, deckchairs, and various family-friendly activities and sports.