Dinard Beaches

Overview

Dinard is an elegant seaside resort on Brittany's Emerald Coast, known for its beautiful Belle Époque villas and sandy beaches. The coastline is defined by some of the most dramatic tides in Europe, which transform the landscape daily. At low tide, vast stretches of sand are revealed, while at high tide, the water often reaches the coastal promenades. This creates a different beach experience from its historic neighbor, Saint-Malo, which has a busier atmosphere and is just a short ferry ride across the Rance estuary.

The town's main beach is the centrally located Plage de l'Ecluse, famous for its iconic blue-and-white striped beach tents that evoke a classic resort feel. For a more local atmosphere, Plage Saint-Enogat is a charming beach set in the historic heart of Dinard. Another excellent choice is Plage du Prieuré, a large, family-friendly beach that offers stunning views of Saint-Malo's ramparts from across the bay.

Beyond the main stretches of sand, a coastal path connects the beaches and reveals smaller, more secluded coves like Plage de la Malouine. From lively, family-oriented shores to quiet, scenic retreats, Dinard offers a variety of beach experiences. For a complete look at all the options, from the most popular spots to hidden gems, be sure to explore our longer list of the area's best beaches.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is the water in Dinard warm enough for swimming?

The sea temperature in Dinard is quite cool. The water is most comfortable for swimming in August and September when temperatures can reach up to 19°C (66°F). During the peak summer months of June and July, the average water temperature is around 18-21°C (64-70°F), which many find refreshing for a dip, though it's certainly not warm. A wetsuit might be preferable for longer swims.

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

Dinard experiences some of the most dramatic tides in Europe. At low tide, the beaches become vast expanses of sand, perfect for walking, sand yachting, and exploring rock pools. At high tide, the water can come all the way up to the sea wall, leaving very little beach area. Some beaches, like Plage du Prieuré, have seawater swimming pools that retain water, allowing you to swim even at low tide.

Plage du Prieuré

Which is better for a beach holiday, Dinard or Saint-Malo?

Both Dinard and Saint-Malo offer beautiful sandy beaches, but they have different atmospheres. Dinard is known for its elegant, Belle Époque resort feel, with grand villas overlooking the sea and a slightly quieter vibe. Its main beach, Plage de l'Écluse, is a wide, sandy bay. Saint-Malo is a historic walled city with large beaches right outside its ramparts, like the Grande Plage du Sillon. It tends to be busier and has a more historic, bustling atmosphere. A convenient 10-minute ferry connects the two, so it's easy to experience both regardless of where you stay.

Plage de l'Ecluse

Grande Plage du Sillon

What is the main beach in Dinard like?

The main and most central beach is Plage de l'Écluse. It's a large, sandy, crescent-shaped beach known for its iconic blue-and-white striped beach tents, which can be rented. It's very family-friendly, with calm waters, lifeguards in the summer, kids' clubs, and an Olympic-sized heated seawater pool right on the promenade. Being in the heart of the town, it's surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and the casino.

Plage de l'Ecluse

Are there hotels with direct beach access in Dinard?

Yes, Dinard's history as a seaside resort means it has several hotels and historic villas located directly on or with commanding views over the main beaches. For instance, there are hotels with direct access to Plage de l'Écluse. Additionally, many holiday apartments and rentals in the town center and Saint-Énogat neighborhood are just a short walk from the sand.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Plage de l'Ecluse

Are there quieter, less crowded beaches in Dinard?

Yes, for a more tranquil experience, you can visit Plage de Saint-Énogat, the original beach of Dinard, which has a more traditional village feel. Plage du Prieuré is another large, family-friendly beach that can be calmer than the main Plage de l'Écluse. For even more seclusion, you can explore the smaller coves and inlets along the coastal path (Sentier des Douaniers), such as the Plage de la Malouine.

Plage Saint-Enogat

Plage du Prieuré

Plage de l'Ecluse

Is Dinard a good destination for a family beach holiday?

Absolutely. Dinard is very family-friendly. The main beaches like Plage de l'Écluse and Plage du Prieuré have gentle slopes, calm waters, and are supervised by lifeguards in the summer. There are numerous beach clubs offering activities for children, from sandcastle competitions to swimming lessons. The town also has attractions like the Parc de Port-Breton with a small animal park and playgrounds near Plage du Prieuré.

Plage de l'Ecluse

Plage du Prieuré

What's the best way to get to the beaches if I'm not staying right on the coast?

Dinard is a very walkable town, and its main beaches, Plage de l'Écluse and Plage du Prieuré, are easily accessible on foot from the town center. For beaches further out, like Port Blanc, or for exploring the coastline towards Saint-Lunaire, walking along the GR34 coastal path is a scenic option. Parking can be limited and is often paid near the main beaches during peak season, so walking is frequently the easiest choice.

Plage de l'Ecluse

Plage du Prieuré

People Also Ask

What are the blue and white striped tents on Dinard's main beach?

The iconic blue and white striped tents on Plage de l'Écluse are a signature feature of Dinard, reflecting its Belle Époque heritage. They are beach tents that can be rented by the day or week during the summer season. They provide shade and a private space for families and beachgoers to relax and store their belongings, adding to the resort's classic, elegant atmosphere.

Plage de l'Ecluse

When is the best time of year to visit Dinard for a beach holiday?

The best time for a beach-focused holiday in Dinard is from June to September. July and August are the warmest and busiest months, with the most reliable weather for swimming and sunbathing, and all beach facilities are open. For pleasant weather with fewer crowds, consider visiting in June or September.

Are dogs allowed on the beaches in Dinard?

Dog access on Dinard's beaches is generally restricted during the peak season. Typically, from mid-June to mid-September, dogs are prohibited on the main supervised beaches during the day. It's always best to check the signs at the entrance to each specific beach, as rules can vary slightly between them and for different times of the year.

What is there to do on the beach besides swimming and sunbathing?

At low tide, the vast sandy expanses are perfect for beach games, long walks, and exploring rock pools teeming with small marine life. The coastal footpath, known as the 'Sentier des Douaniers' (GR34), connects the beaches and offers stunning walks with views of the sea and Belle Époque villas. Some beaches, like Port Blanc, have water sports centers for activities like sea kayaking and windsurfing.

Plage du Port Blanc