Cayeux-sur-Mer Beaches

Overview

Cayeux-sur-Mer, in Hauts-de-France, offers a distinctive coastal experience. Many visitors wonder about its beaches; the main one is a long pebble shoreline that reveals a vast expanse of sand as the tide goes out. This dynamic coast is famously lined by Europe's longest wooden boardwalk, the 'chemin de planches', adorned with hundreds of colourful beach cabins, creating a unique seaside atmosphere.

The primary beach, Grande Plage de Cayeux, is the town's heart, celebrated for its iconic boardwalk and lively environment. For a contrasting sandy experience, Plage du Crotoy offers a wide, south-facing beach perfect for a day trip across the Baie de Somme. Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy Plage Hourdel, a wilder spot renowned for offering views of France's largest seal colony. Nearby, Plage de Saint-Valery-sur-Somme provides stunning bay views, particularly at sunset, adjacent to a charming medieval town.

Beyond these key spots, Cayeux-sur-Mer and its surroundings provide diverse coastal attractions, from leisurely walks and observing nature to more active pursuits like kitesurfing, for which the area is well-known. It's regarded as a family-friendly destination with a relaxed feel. To discover all the seaside options available, explore the longer list of beaches included in this guide.

Top Beaches

FAQ

What is the beach at Cayeux-sur-Mer like, pebbles or sand?

The beach at Cayeux-sur-Mer is primarily a pebble beach, especially at high tide. As the tide goes out, a vast expanse of sand is revealed. The beach stretches for about 14 kilometers. Many visitors recommend water shoes for comfort on the pebbles.

Can you swim at Cayeux-sur-Mer beach and what's the water like?

Yes, you can swim at Cayeux-sur-Mer, and the beach is supervised in summer in designated areas. The water temperature is typical for the English Channel, meaning it can be quite cool, even in summer, with average August temperatures around 18°C (64°F). Tides are significant, which affects the swimming area and water access.

What is the 'chemin de planches' at Cayeux-sur-Mer?

The 'chemin de planches' is a famous wooden boardwalk that runs along the seafront at Cayeux-sur-Mer. It's known for being one of the longest in Europe, stretching nearly 2 kilometers, and is lined with over 400 colourful, privately-owned and rentable beach huts. It's typically in place from around April to September/October.

Are dogs allowed on the beach at Cayeux-sur-Mer?

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the beach at Cayeux-sur-Mer, provided they are kept on a leash. However, there might be restrictions in supervised bathing areas during peak season. It's always best to check local signage. Brighton Beach at Cayeux-sur-Mer is specifically mentioned as dog-friendly year-round on a leash.

Are there accommodations with direct beach access or sea views in Cayeux-sur-Mer?

Yes, Cayeux-sur-Mer offers various accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, and holiday rentals (like Airbnb properties) that are located close to the seafront, offering sea views or very easy beach access. Some are directly on or very near the 'chemin de planches'.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

When is the best time to visit Cayeux-sur-Mer for a beach holiday?

The best time for a beach holiday in Cayeux-sur-Mer is generally from late June to early September when the weather is warmest and sunniest. The beach huts and boardwalk are typically in place during this period, and beach supervision is active. Mid-July to mid-August is often cited for the best hot-weather activities.

Can you rent the beach huts (cabines de plage) at Cayeux-sur-Mer?

Yes, some of the beach huts along the 'chemin de planches' are available for rent, though many are privately owned. It's advisable to inquire with the local tourist office (Office de Tourisme) for availability and booking, as waiting lists can be long, especially in summer.

What are the tides like at Cayeux-sur-Mer and how do they affect the beach?

Cayeux-sur-Mer experiences significant tidal ranges, characteristic of the Baie de Somme. At high tide, the beach is predominantly pebbles. At low tide, a large sandy area is exposed, making the beach much wider. Tide times vary daily and impact activities like swimming, beachcombing, and accessing certain areas.

People Also Ask

Is Cayeux-sur-Mer a good destination for families?

Yes, Cayeux-sur-Mer is considered a family-friendly seaside resort. It offers a long beach, a children's play area with a pool near the central beach area in summer, and a generally relaxed atmosphere. The heritage steam train (Chemin de Fer de la Baie de Somme) is also a popular family attraction nearby.

What activities are popular on Cayeux-sur-Mer beach besides swimming?

Popular activities include walking or cycling along the 'chemin de planches' or the 'Route Blanche' coastal path, kitesurfing (Cayeux is a renowned spot), sand yachting, sea kayaking, fishing, and simply relaxing by the beach huts. At low tide, the exposed sand is great for beachcombing and playing. Seal watching at nearby Pointe du Hourdel is also a highlight.

Grande Plage de Cayeux

How does Cayeux-sur-Mer beach compare to Le Crotoy or Saint-Valery-sur-Somme?

Cayeux-sur-Mer's main beach is a long pebble beach (sand at low tide) known for its boardwalk and beach huts, facing the open sea. Le Crotoy, on the north side of the Baie de Somme, has a large, south-facing sandy beach. Saint-Valery-sur-Somme is a medieval town with a smaller beach area along the estuary, more focused on its historic charm and harbour. Each offers a different coastal experience.

Grande Plage de Cayeux

Plage du Crotoy

Plage de Saint-Valery-sur-Somme

Plage de Saint-Valery-sur-Somm...

Is there parking available near the beach in Cayeux-sur-Mer?

Yes, there is parking available near the beach and in the town centre, including free and paid options. During peak season (July and August), parking spaces close to the boardwalk can fill up quickly, so arriving early or parking further out is recommended. There's also a designated area for campervans.

Can you see seals near Cayeux-sur-Mer?

Yes, it's possible to see seals, particularly at Pointe du Hourdel, a short distance south of Cayeux-sur-Mer's main beach. This spot is well-known for its seal colony, which can often be observed resting on sandbanks at low tide. Guided tours are sometimes available for seal watching.

What is the 'Route Blanche' near Cayeux-sur-Mer?

The 'Route Blanche' is a scenic coastal path (greenway) near Cayeux-sur-Mer, popular for walking and cycling. It runs through the dunes, linking the hamlet of Le Hourdel to La Mollière, offering beautiful views of the natural landscape.

Are there any specific recommendations for footwear on Cayeux-sur-Mer beach?

Due to the pebble nature of the beach, especially at high tide, water shoes or sandals that can handle pebbles are highly recommended for comfort when walking on the beach and entering the water.

Grande Plage de Cayeux

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