Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, South of France (le Midi), France

Aubagne Beaches

Overview

While Aubagne itself is a charming inland town, it serves as an excellent and authentic base for exploring the stunning Mediterranean coast. Located just a short drive from the sea, it offers easy access to the celebrated beaches and coves of the region. This unique position allows visitors to enjoy a true Provençal atmosphere while being moments away from some of France's most dramatic coastal scenery.

The coastline is famously diverse, from bustling town beaches to wild, fjord-like inlets called calanques. You can hike to the breathtaking Calanque d'En-vau, a truly iconic natural wonder with its towering cliffs and turquoise waters. For a more relaxed day, the vibrant Plage de la Grande Mer sits at the heart of Cassis. Nearby, the serene Calanque de Port Pin offers a more tranquil cove experience, while Plage du Bestouan is a favorite spot for locals.

Beyond the dramatic calanques, the area also boasts wide, sandy shores perfect for families, such as the popular Grande Plage in nearby La Ciotat. Whether you seek a strenuous hike to a secluded cove or the convenience of a lively town beach, the coast near Aubagne delivers a memorable experience. These highlights are just the beginning, and our full guide explores many more destinations waiting to be discovered.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Are there actually any beaches in Aubagne itself?

No, Aubagne is an inland town and does not have its own beaches. However, it's located very close to the Mediterranean coast, making it a popular and often more affordable base for exploring the beaches of nearby towns like Cassis and La Ciotat, which are about a 20-30 minute drive away.

Is Aubagne a good base for a beach holiday?

Aubagne can be an excellent base for a beach holiday, especially if you have a car and are looking for a more affordable option than the coastal towns. It allows you to explore a variety of beaches in Cassis, La Ciotat, and the Calanques National Park while staying in a more authentically Provençal town. However, if your priority is walking to the beach every day, staying directly in Cassis or La Ciotat would be better.

What's the best way to get to the beaches from Aubagne?

Driving is the most direct option, but be aware that parking in coastal towns like Cassis is notoriously difficult and expensive, especially in summer. A highly recommended alternative is the local bus network; line L068 runs directly from Aubagne to Cassis, offering a stress-free way to reach the port and beaches.

Are the beaches near Aubagne sandy or pebbly?

You'll find a mix. The main beach in Cassis, Plage de la Grande Mer, is mostly pebbles and coarse sand. For wide, sandy beaches, La Ciotat is the better choice and is particularly popular with families. The famous Calanques are not traditional beaches but small coves that are typically rocky or have pebble shores.

Plage de la Grande Mer

Which is better for a beach day: Cassis or La Ciotat?

It depends on your preference. Cassis is famous for its stunning scenery, with a picturesque harbor nestled under the dramatic Cap Canaille cliff and access to the Calanques. Its main beach is beautiful but gets very crowded. La Ciotat offers several larger, wider sandy beaches that are generally more spacious and family-friendly, with a more relaxed, down-to-earth vibe.

What is a 'calanque' and can you swim there?

A calanque is a narrow, steep-walled inlet, like a Mediterranean fjord, carved into the limestone cliffs. Yes, you can absolutely swim in them, and it's a highlight of the region. The water is typically calm, incredibly clear, and a stunning turquoise color, though it can be cooler than at open beaches. Access is usually from small pebble coves or directly off the rocks.

Are the beaches near Aubagne suitable for families with small children?

Yes, the beaches in La Ciotat are particularly family-friendly. Plage Lumière and the Grande Plage are sandy, have shallow water entry, and are close to amenities. The main beach in Cassis is pebbly and gets deep more quickly. The Calanques often require hiking to access and can be difficult for families with very young children.

Plage Lumière

Grande Plage

When is the best time for a beach trip in this area?

For the best balance of warm sea temperatures and manageable crowds, June and September are ideal. July and August are the hottest months but also the most crowded, with significant traffic and parking challenges. Spring is beautiful for coastal hikes, but the water is generally too cold for swimming.

People Also Ask

How do the beaches here compare to the main French Riviera (Nice, Cannes)?

The coastline near Aubagne, dominated by the Calanques National Park, is generally more rugged, wild, and dramatic than the more developed beaches of the central French Riviera. While places like Cannes and Nice are known for long, sprawling beaches (often pebbly in Nice) and glamorous promenades, the area around Cassis offers a mix of a charming town beach and stunning natural coves that are destinations for both swimming and hiking.

Is it difficult to access the Calanques?

Access varies. Some, like Calanque de Port-Miou, are an easy walk from Cassis. Others, like the famous Calanque d'En-Vau, require a strenuous hike of over an hour with steep sections. Access can also be restricted entirely in the summer due to fire risk. Always check the official Calanques National Park app or website for current conditions and access rules before you go.

Calanque d'En-vau

Are there any hidden gem beaches to escape the crowds?

To escape the main crowds of Cassis, consider the beaches east of La Ciotat, such as Plage de Liouquet. For a true adventure, hiking or taking a boat to the more remote calanques like Sugiton or En-Vau will reward you with spectacular scenery and fewer people, though they require significant effort to reach.

Liouquet Beach

What's the parking situation like in Cassis during the summer?

Parking in Cassis during summer is extremely challenging. The lots near the port and beaches fill up very early in the morning and are expensive. A popular local strategy is to use the park-and-ride car park (Parking des Gorguettes) at the entrance to the town and take the frequent shuttle bus down to the port. Trying to find parking in the center after 10 am is often futile.

Is it safe to swim at the beaches near Aubagne?

Yes, swimming is generally very safe. The main beaches in Cassis and La Ciotat are supervised by lifeguards during the high season (look for the safety flags). The water in the calanques is typically very calm, but be mindful of boat traffic and never swim alone in the more remote coves as there are no lifeguards.