Dinan Beaches

Overview

While the historic ramparts of Dinan feel a world away from the sea, the stunning Emerald Coast is just a short drive away. This makes Dinan an ideal base for travellers who want to pair medieval city charm with beautiful coastal excursions. You get the best of both worlds: exploring ancient cobblestone streets in the morning and relaxing on golden sands in the afternoon.

The nearby coastline offers a beach for every taste. In elegant Dinard, Plage de l'Ecluse provides a classic resort experience with its iconic striped tents. Just across the Rance estuary, Saint-Malo's vast Grande Plage du Sillon is perfect for long walks with the historic walled city as a backdrop. For a unique swim, Plage de Bon-Secours features a famous seawater pool, while those seeking tranquility can find it at the sheltered cove of Beach de la Fosse near Cap Fréhel.

The beaches here are shaped by some of Europe's most dramatic tides, which reveal vast expanses of sand perfect for exploring at low tide. Beyond our top picks, family-friendly shores like the Grande Plage in Saint-Cast-le-Guildo also await. These highlights are just the beginning, so be sure to explore our full guide to discover the many other beautiful beaches dotted along this magnificent coastline.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Dinan a good base for a beach holiday?

Dinan is an excellent base if you want to combine a historic, medieval town experience with day trips to the coast. While not directly on the sea, it is a short drive from the stunning Emerald Coast. This setup is ideal for travelers who appreciate culture and history as much as beach time, offering a mix of city charm and coastal beauty.

What are the closest beaches to Dinan?

The nearest beaches to Dinan are about a 25-30 minute drive away in the coastal towns of Dinard and Saint-Malo. In Dinard, the main beach is Plage de l'Écluse, known for its iconic blue and white striped beach tents. In Saint-Malo, the vast Grande Plage du Sillon stretches alongside the city walls.

Plage de l'Ecluse

Grande Plage du Sillon

Do I need a car to get to the beaches from Dinan?

While a car offers the most flexibility for exploring various beaches, it's not strictly necessary. There are public bus services, such as the BreizhGo line 10, that connect Dinan to Saint-Malo in about 50 minutes. For a more scenic route, you can take a boat trip down the Rance River from the Port of Dinan to the coast, though this takes longer.

What is the sea water like for swimming near Dinan?

The sea on the Emerald Coast is known for being brisk and refreshing, even in summer. Water temperatures in July and August typically range from 17-20°C (63-68°F). While many people enjoy swimming, the water is considerably cooler than the Mediterranean. Some beaches, like Plage de l'Écluse in Dinard, have seawater swimming pools that are exposed at low tide and offer a slightly warmer, calmer alternative.

Plage de l'Ecluse

What are the tides like and how do they affect the beaches?

The tides around Saint-Malo and Dinard are among the most dramatic in Europe, with a difference of up to 12 meters between high and low tide. This completely transforms the landscape. At low tide, vast expanses of sand are revealed, perfect for walking and exploring. However, you must be extremely cautious as the tide can come in very quickly. Always check the tide times before heading out, especially if walking to tidal islands like Grand Bé in Saint-Malo.

Which is better for a beach day: Dinard or Saint-Malo?

The choice depends on your preferred vibe. Dinard offers a classic, slightly more relaxed seaside resort feel with its Belle Époque villas and famous Plage de l'Écluse. Saint-Malo provides a more dramatic and historic setting, with its large beaches running alongside the impressive walled city (Intra-Muros). Saint-Malo's Plage de Bon-Secours is famous for its tidal swimming pool and diving board.

Plage de l'Ecluse

Plage de Bon-Secours

When is the best time of year to visit Dinan for beaches?

The best time for a beach-focused trip is from June to September when the weather is warmest and sunniest. July and August are the peak months with the most visitors and the best chance for warm sea temperatures. For fewer crowds with still pleasant weather, consider visiting in June or early September.

Are there family-friendly beaches near Dinan?

Yes, many beaches on the Emerald Coast are great for families. The Grande Plage in Saint-Cast-le-Guildo is ideal, offering children's clubs and supervision in the summer. Plage de l'Écluse in Dinard is also very popular with families due to its calm waters and amenities. Many beaches have gentle slopes and vast sandy areas for playing at low tide.

Plage de l'Ecluse

People Also Ask

Should I stay in Dinan or a coastal town like Saint-Malo?

Stay in Dinan if you prefer a charming, preserved medieval town and don't mind traveling 30 minutes to the coast. Dinan is often quieter in the evenings once day-trippers leave. Stay in Saint-Malo or Dinard if you want to be right on the beach, waking up to sea views and having immediate access to coastal walks and activities. The coastal towns are busier, especially in summer.

Are there any quieter, hidden gem beaches to escape the crowds?

Yes, for a wilder and more secluded experience, explore the coast around Cap Fréhel. Beaches like La Fosse beach or the coves at Anse des Sévignés offer a more natural and less crowded setting. The peninsula of Saint-Jacut-de-la-Mer, known for its 11 beaches, also has quieter spots like Vauvert beach, especially outside of peak season.

Beach de la Fosse

Can you go shore fishing or collect shellfish?

Yes, shore fishing and shellfish gathering ('pêche à pied') are very popular local activities, especially during the big low tides. Beaches like Rougeret in Saint-Jacut-de-la-Mer are well-known spots. It's a great way to experience local culture, but make sure you are aware of the regulations regarding sizes and species, and always be mindful of the returning tide.

Are the beaches near Dinan suitable for surfing?

The beaches closest to Dinan, like those in Dinard and Saint-Malo, are generally not known for surfing due to being relatively sheltered. However, further west towards Cap Fréhel, spots like Grèves d'en Bas beach are known to be popular with local surfers when the conditions are right. For more consistent waves, you would typically need to travel further into western Brittany.