Occitanie, South of France (le Midi), France

Calvisson Beaches

Overview

Calvisson offers a charming and authentic base for exploring the celebrated beaches of the South of France. While nestled in the quiet of a traditional French village, the vibrant Mediterranean coast is just a 30 to 40-minute drive away. This unique position allows visitors to easily mix relaxing beach days with excursions into the surrounding countryside and nearby cities like Nîmes, providing a holiday that captures the best of both worlds.

The nearby coastline presents a diverse selection of beaches to suit any preference. For a classic and convenient seaside experience, Plage du Boucanet in Le Grau-du-Roi is a perfect choice. Those seeking a truly wild and dramatic landscape will be captivated by the immense protected dunes of Plage de l'Espiguette, one of the most famous natural beaches in France. For a more laid-back atmosphere favored by locals, Plage du Grand Travers offers a relaxed setting with popular beach clubs.

Beyond these picks, the coast is dotted with destinations offering distinct atmospheres. You can choose between the traditional fishing village feel of Le Grau-du-Roi or the famous 1960s pyramid-style architecture of La Grande-Motte. A great example of the latter's appeal is Plage du Point Zéro, a beautiful and family-friendly beach right in the town's center. For even more coastal gems and hidden spots, be sure to explore our complete guide to the region's beaches.

FAQ

People Also Ask

What are the closest beaches to Calvisson and how long does it take to get there?

The nearest Mediterranean beaches to Calvisson are in Le Grau-du-Roi and La Grande-Motte. The drive typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes by car, depending on traffic, which can be heavy during the summer months.

Is Calvisson a good base for a beach holiday?

Calvisson is an excellent base if you want to combine beach days with exploring the wider region, including cities like Nîmes and the surrounding countryside. While it's not directly on the coast, its 30-40 minute proximity to the sea allows for easy day trips to the beach while enjoying the charm and relative quiet of a traditional French village.

Le Grau-du-Roi vs. La Grande-Motte: which is better for a day trip?

The choice depends on your preference. Le Grau-du-Roi offers the vibe of a more traditional fishing village with a bustling town center and port. La Grande-Motte is a purpose-built resort famous for its unique 1960s pyramid-style architecture and long, wide sandy beaches. Both are great for a day trip and are located very close to each other.

Are the beaches near Calvisson good for families with children?

Yes, many beaches are very family-friendly. The main beaches at Le Grau-du-Roi (like Plage du Boucanet) and La Grande-Motte have fine sand, calm, shallow waters, and are supervised by lifeguards in season. You'll also find plenty of amenities like toilets, snack bars, and ice cream shops nearby.

Plage du Boucanet

Is it better to stay in Calvisson and drive to the beach, or stay in a coastal town?

Staying in Calvisson is ideal for travelers who want a quieter, more 'local' experience and plan to explore inland attractions like Nîmes and the Pont du Gard in addition to beach days. Staying in a coastal town like Le Grau-du-Roi is better if your holiday is focused entirely on the beach and you want to walk from your accommodation to the sea.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

What's so special about Plage de l'Espiguette?

Plage de l'Espiguette is famous for being one of the wildest and most natural beaches in the region. It's a massive, 10km-long stretch of sand backed by a protected system of high sand dunes, giving it a desert-like, unspoiled feel. It's perfect for those looking to escape crowded resort beaches and enjoy nature.

Plage de l'Espiguette

What is the parking situation like at the popular beaches?

At popular beaches like Plage de l'Espiguette, there are large, designated parking areas that are typically fee-based during the high season. At L'Espiguette, be prepared for a walk of several hundred meters from the car park across the dunes to reach the sea. In town centers like Le Grau-du-Roi, parking can be challenging in summer, so arriving early is recommended.

Plage de l'Espiguette

Are there any quieter, less-crowded beaches to escape the summer crowds?

Yes, the sheer size of Plage de l'Espiguette means that if you are willing to walk a bit from the main entrance, you can always find a quiet spot. Further into the Camargue, beaches like Plage de Piémanson offer a vast, remote experience, though they are further to drive to and have fewer facilities.

Plage de l'Espiguette

Piemanson

Can you get to the beaches from Calvisson without a car?

It is challenging but possible. You would typically need to take a bus from Calvisson to Nîmes, and then another bus from Nîmes to the coastal town of Le Grau-du-Roi. The journey involves transfers and will take significantly longer than driving, so a car is highly recommended for flexibility and convenience.

Can you swim in the sea in May or October?

Yes, you can swim during these months, but the water will be cool. In May, the sea is refreshing as it warms up for summer, typically around 16-18°C (61-64°F). By October, it's cooling down from its summer peak but can still be pleasant for a brisk swim on a sunny day, with similar temperatures.

Are there naturist beaches in the area?

Yes, the region is well-known for its naturist-friendly areas. A large, designated section of the famous Plage de l'Espiguette is reserved for naturism. It is located away from the main family areas, offering a sense of privacy and space.

Plage de l'Espiguette

What is the 'Camargue' and how is it different from the main beaches?

The Camargue is a vast natural park located in the Rhône river delta, just east of Le Grau-du-Roi. Its beaches, like l'Espiguette, are characterized by their wild, protected landscapes of dunes, marshes, and lagoons. This is different from the resort beaches of La Grande-Motte or the town beaches of Le Grau-du-Roi, which are more developed with promenades and amenities.

Plage de l'Espiguette