Occitanie, South of France (le Midi), France

Canet-en-Roussillon Beaches

Overview

Welcome to Canet-en-Roussillon, a premier beach destination in the South of France where the Pyrenees meet the Mediterranean. The heart of the action is Canet-Plage, a modern resort famed for its nine kilometers of fine, golden sand. This vast expanse, known as Plage de Canet, is exceptionally family-friendly, with a gentle slope into the sea that makes it ideal for children. While the resort is the main draw, it's part of a larger town that includes a historic village located just a few kilometers inland, offering a touch of authentic Catalan culture.

Beyond its main stretch of sand, the area offers a surprising variety of coastal experiences. For ultimate convenience, Plage du Grand Large is the main supervised beach, perfect for visitors staying in town. For a complete change of pace, you can explore the rocky coastline of the Côte Vermeille. Here you'll find the charming village atmosphere of Racou, where houses open directly onto the sand, and the stunning cove of Beach Paulilles, which offers dramatic scenery and clear waters.

For those seeking unique adventures, the coastline delivers memorable moments. A short trip to Plage de Peyrefite rewards visitors with a protected underwater snorkeling trail, offering a glimpse into the rich marine life of a national reserve. While the local Tramontane wind can be strong at times, it creates perfect conditions for kitesurfing and windsurfing. These highlights are just a taste of what's available, as our complete guide details a wide array of beaches to suit every preference.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Canet-en-Roussillon very windy? Does the wind spoil the beach?

Yes, Canet-en-Roussillon can be windy due to the Tramontane, a strong wind from the northwest. While it can be intense at times, making the sand blow, it's not constant. Many find it refreshing on hot days, and it creates excellent conditions for kitesurfing and windsurfing. On the windiest days, you can explore the old village or the nearby nature reserve around the lagoon.

Is Canet-en-Roussillon a good destination for families with young children?

Absolutely. Canet is known for being very family-friendly. The main beach has fine sand and a gentle slope into the sea, making the water shallow and safe for children. The beach is supervised by lifeguards in summer and has been awarded the Blue Flag for its quality. The town also offers numerous kid-friendly activities, including playgrounds and beach clubs with play areas.

Can you swim in the sea at Canet-en-Roussillon? Is the water warm?

Yes, you can definitely swim at Canet-en-Roussillon. The water is generally calm and clean, earning the beach its Blue Flag status. Water temperatures are most comfortable for swimming from late June to September, typically ranging from 20°C to 24°C (68°F to 75°F) in peak summer.

What's the difference between Canet-en-Roussillon and Canet-Plage?

Canet-en-Roussillon refers to the whole town, which includes the historic old village (Canet-Village) located about 4km inland. Canet-Plage is the modern seaside resort area directly on the coast where the main beach, hotels, restaurants, and tourist activities are concentrated.

Are there hotels directly on the beach in Canet-Plage?

Yes, there are several hotels and apartment residences located directly along the seafront promenade, offering rooms with direct sea views. Staying in one of these places means you can walk straight out onto the sand. This is a popular option, so it's best to book well in advance for the summer season.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Which is better for a holiday, Canet-en-Roussillon or Argelès-sur-Mer?

It depends on your preference. Canet-Plage has a more modern, resort-like feel with a very long, wide promenade. Argelès-Plage has a more traditional seaside town vibe with a large pine forest backing the beach, and its historic village is closer to the beach area. Argelès also tends to be busier with more campsites and nightlife options.

When is the best time to visit Canet-en-Roussillon for a beach holiday?

The peak season is July and August, offering the hottest weather and warmest sea, but also the biggest crowds. For a more relaxed experience with pleasant weather for swimming and sunbathing, consider visiting in June or September. May and early October are great for exploring the region, but the sea might be too chilly for some.

Are the beaches in Canet-en-Roussillon free?

Yes, the vast majority of the 9km of beach in Canet-en-Roussillon is public and free to access. There are some private beach clubs ('plages privées') where you can rent sun loungers and umbrellas, but you can always find a large free spot nearby.

People Also Ask

How crowded does Canet-Plage get in the summer?

Canet-Plage is a popular resort and can get very busy in July and August, especially in the central area near the Place Méditerranée. However, the beach is incredibly long and wide, so if you walk a bit north or south from the center, you can always find plenty of space.

Is Canet-en-Roussillon just for beach holidays or is there more to do?

While the beach is the main attraction, there's more to explore. You can visit the historic Canet-Village with its castle, discover the wildlife at the Étang de Canet-Saint-Nazaire (a coastal lagoon popular with birdwatchers), visit the Oniria aquarium, or use it as a base to explore Perpignan and the wider region.

Are there jellyfish in Canet-en-Roussillon?

Like most of the Mediterranean, jellyfish can occasionally appear, particularly after storms or when certain currents prevail. Their presence is not constant and is monitored. Lifeguard stations will often fly a specific flag to warn swimmers if jellyfish are present in significant numbers.

Is there a naturist beach in or near Canet-en-Roussillon?

While the main beach of Canet is not naturist, there is a designated naturist beach area located at the northernmost end of the beach, towards Torreilles. This area is clearly marked.

Naturist Beach of Torreilles

What's the atmosphere like in Canet-Plage? Is it a party town?

Canet-Plage has a lively and bustling holiday resort atmosphere, especially in the evening along the promenade. While there are plenty of bars and some late-night venues, it's not considered a wild party town like some other European resorts. The vibe is generally more focused on families and couples enjoying restaurants, evening markets, and strolls.

How do you get from Canet-Village to the beach at Canet-Plage?

The village and the beach are about 4km (2.5 miles) apart. You can travel between them easily via a regular local bus service which takes about 15 minutes. It's also a flat and easy route to cycle, with dedicated bike paths available.

What is the beach sand like in Canet-en-Roussillon?

The beach at Canet-en-Roussillon is known for its fine, golden sand. It's a very wide and long sandy beach, not pebbly or shingly, making it comfortable for walking, sunbathing, and for children to play on.