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

Carpentras Beaches

Overview

Many visitors wonder about the beaches in Carpentras, and it's helpful to know that the town itself is located inland, in the heart of Provence. While it doesn't have its own coastline, Carpentras serves as an excellent base for exploring the wider region, with the Mediterranean Sea just a day trip away. A drive is necessary to reach the coast, but this positioning allows you to enjoy both the Provençal countryside and the beautiful shores of the South of France.

The coastal areas accessible from Carpentras offer a wonderful variety of beach experiences. For a unique adventure, the wild, protected dunes at Plage de l'Espiguette create a stunning natural landscape. Families often prefer the fine sand and calm, shallow waters of Plage de St Croix, making it an ideal choice for a relaxed day with children. For a more bustling, urban atmosphere, Prado Beach in Marseille provides a huge park and numerous coves, while nearby Prophet's Beach is a favorite among locals for its authentic city-beach feel.

Beyond the celebrated Mediterranean coastline, the area immediately around Carpentras also offers freshwater swimming opportunities in local lakes and rivers. For those seeking truly dramatic coastal scenery, the famous coves of the Calanques National Park are another unforgettable option for a day's excursion. To see all the diverse options, from sandy shores to secluded inlets, be sure to browse our complete guide to the best beaches and swimming spots near Carpentras.

FAQ

People Also Ask

Are there beaches in Carpentras?

No, Carpentras is an inland town in Provence and does not have any sea beaches. However, it is close to several popular freshwater swimming spots, including man-made lakes with beaches, like Lac de Monteux and Lac des Salettes. There are also opportunities for river swimming in places like the Toulourenc gorges.

How far is Carpentras from the nearest sea beach?

The nearest Mediterranean Sea beaches are on the Côte Bleue (Blue Coast), near Martigues and Sausset-les-Pins. These are approximately a 70-80 minute drive (about 80-90 km) from Carpentras. The famous Calanques National Park between Marseille and Cassis is a bit further, requiring a drive of at least 90 minutes.

Is Carpentras a good base for a beach holiday?

Carpentras is better described as an excellent base for exploring the heart of Provence, including Mont Ventoux, the Luberon villages, and Avignon. While day trips to the sea are possible, it is not a typical beach holiday destination. If your primary goal is daily beach access, staying in a coastal town would be more convenient.

Where do locals go to swim near Carpentras?

Locals often cool off in nearby freshwater spots. The Lac de Monteux is very popular for its range of activities and supervised swimming. For a more natural setting, many enjoy the Lac des Salettes in Mormoiron or the refreshing, clear waters of the Toulourenc river gorge at the foot of Mont Ventoux.

Are there hotels in Carpentras with good pools?

Yes, since Carpentras is not on the coast, many visitors look for accommodation with a swimming pool as an alternative for cooling off. You can find several hotels, guesthouses (chambres d'hôtes), and holiday rentals in and around Carpentras that feature private or shared pools.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

What are the best family-friendly swimming spots near Carpentras?

For families, Lac de Monteux is an excellent choice as it features a supervised beach, a large play area, pedal boats, and inflatable water games. Another great option is Lac des Salettes in Mormoiron, which also has a supervised beach in summer and is perfect for picnics.

Do you need a car to get to swimming spots from Carpentras?

Yes, a car is essential. The lakes, rivers, and Mediterranean beaches are not directly accessible via public transport from Carpentras. A car gives you the flexibility to explore the various swimming locations and the surrounding Provençal countryside.

Is it better to stay in Carpentras and drive to the coast, or stay in a town like Cassis?

This depends on your holiday priorities. Stay in Carpentras if you want a central base to explore all of Provence (vineyards, markets, historic towns) with only an occasional beach day. Stay in a coastal town like Cassis if your main focus is the sea, boat trips to the Calanques, and being able to walk to a beach.

What is the closest swimming lake to Carpentras?

The closest and most popular swimming lake is Lac de Monteux, located just a 10-15 minute drive south of Carpentras. It offers a dedicated beach area and numerous water-based activities.

Can you swim in the rivers around Carpentras, like the Sorgue or Toulourenc?

Yes, swimming is popular in some local rivers. The Toulourenc river offers a unique experience of walking and swimming through a beautiful, shallow gorge. While the Sorgue river, known for its crystal-clear water and source at Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, is popular for kayaking, some find spots to dip in, though the water is very cold (around 14°C/57°F year-round).

Are the lake beaches near Carpentras sandy?

The beaches at the local lakes are typically made of pebbles, gravel, or coarse sand rather than fine, golden sand. For example, Lac de Monteux has a pebble beach. For wide, sandy beaches, you would need to travel to the Mediterranean coast, particularly to areas like the Camargue or certain beaches on the Côte Bleue.