Plage de Carteau is a public beach situated in Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rh么ne, within the Provence-Alpes-C么te d'Azur region of France. It is bordered by fine, dark sand and faces the clear waters of the Gulf of Fos sur Mer. The beach has a size of approximately 500m x 150m and is surrounded by dunes.
The beach is known for its water activities, including windsurfing, sailing, and nautical competitions. It is particularly popular as a kitesurfing spot, due to its broad standing area. Despite its popularity for these sports, the beach is noted for its tranquility, even during the summer months.
Visitors to Plage de Carteau have access to various amenities. These include refreshment stands for food and drinks, toilets for convenience, garbage bins for waste disposal, and telephone booths. Additionally, the beach is accessible to people with disabilities, and pets are allowed, making it a welcoming destination for all.
Near the beach, there is a free parking area that can accommodate up to 30 vehicles. This includes a designated area for camping cars, as per the municipal decree displayed at the entrance.
To reach Plage de Carteau, visitors can travel to the Bassin Central du Port de Plaisance and pass the blue lock bridge after the tourist office. Then, take the second road on the right and continue straight for approximately 4km, leaving the Port 脿 sec Navy Services on the left. At the intersection, turn left and continue straight. Alternatively, one can take the quai Bonnardel from the port of Port St Louis and continue on avenue de la 1猫re Dfl for about 3 km. Both routes lead to the beach's parking lot.
Plage de Carteau is part of the Natura Camargue site, indicating its ecological significance. Despite changes to its natural characteristics over the years, such as the disappearance of sand as of September 2023, the beach continues to provide a peaceful environment for relaxation and recreation.