Occitanie, South of France (le Midi), France

Gruissan Beaches

Overview

Gruissan offers a beach experience with a unique character that sets it apart from other seaside resorts in the South of France. Beyond its vast, sandy shores, the destination is a charming mix of a historic village, a lively marina, and protected natural landscapes. This variety extends to its coastline, which features five distinct beaches, ensuring there is a perfect spot for every type of visitor, from families looking for calm waters to adventurers seeking wind and waves.

Each of Gruissan's main beaches has its own personality. The most iconic is undoubtedly Plage des Chalets, famous for its cinematic village of houses on stilts and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. For ultimate convenience, Plage du Grazel is a sheltered, lake-like beach right by the port, making it exceptionally safe for children. In contrast, Plage de la Vieille Nouvelle offers a completely wild and undeveloped landscape for those seeking tranquility and a connection with nature. Meanwhile, the famously windy conditions of the region turn Beach Mateille into a world-renowned hub for kitesurfing and windsurfing.

The strong winds that make Beach Mateille and the neighboring Plage des Ayguades a paradise for watersports are a defining feature of Gruissan. However, the diversity of the coastline means you can always find a sheltered spot or embrace the breeze for an active day. Whether you're looking for a lively beach with restaurants or a quiet escape into nature, Gruissan provides a relaxed and scenic setting for a memorable holiday. For a complete look at all the options, including more secluded spots, be sure to explore the longer list of beaches in this guide.

Top Beaches

FAQ

What are the famous stilt houses on Gruissan's beach?

The iconic stilt houses, or 'chalets sur pilotis', are a unique feature of Gruissan's Plage des Chalets. Originally built by fishermen in the 19th century and later rebuilt after World War II, these wooden houses are elevated on stilts to protect them from the sea. They have become sought-after holiday homes and create a distinctive, village-like atmosphere. This beach and its chalets were famously featured in the 1986 French film "37°2 le matin" (Betty Blue).

Plage des chalets

Is Gruissan a good destination for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Gruissan is considered an excellent destination for families. The beaches are vast, sandy, and several are supervised by lifeguards. Plage du Grazel, in particular, is very sheltered from the wind and has shallow water, making it extremely safe for children. Beyond the beach, there are family-friendly activities like amusement parks, mini-golf, and the salt marshes where you can see flamingos.

Plage du Grazel

Are the beaches in Gruissan very windy?

Yes, Gruissan is well-known for being windy, which has made it a top European destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing. While this is great for watersports, it can sometimes be too windy for casual sunbathing. For a less windy experience, Plage du Grazel is a good option as it's located in a sheltered, enclosed bay that resembles a lake.

Plage du Grazel

Can you swim in the sea at Gruissan and what is the water like?

Yes, you can swim in the sea at Gruissan. The main beaches have fine golden sand and the water is generally clean and warm enough for comfortable swimming from June to September. Water temperatures in August can reach up to 27°C (81°F). The Plage des Chalets is known for being shallow for many meters, which is great for wading and for families.

Plage des chalets

Can you rent one of the stilt chalets on the beach?

Yes, many of the chalets at Plage des Chalets are available for holiday rentals through platforms like Airbnb and other local rental agencies. Renting a chalet offers a unique accommodation experience, placing you directly on the beach with sea views. They range in size and style, from smaller, traditional chalets to larger, modernised homes.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Plage des chalets

What's the best way to get to the beaches from Gruissan village?

The main beaches are a short distance from the old village and the port. It's a pleasant walk or bike ride of about 30 minutes. There are also excellent, safe cycle paths connecting the areas. If driving, all public parking lots in Gruissan, including those at the beaches, are free. A local bus service, Citibus, also connects the village, port, and various beaches like Plage des Chalets and Les Ayguades.

Plage des chalets

Plage des Ayguades

Which is better, Gruissan Plage or Narbonne-Plage?

Both Gruissan and Narbonne-Plage offer wide, sandy beaches typical of the region. However, many visitors prefer Gruissan because of its unique character. Gruissan offers more than just a beach; it has a historic old town with the Barberousse Tower, a lively marina, the famous stilt chalets, and the surrounding salt marshes. Narbonne-Plage is more of a classic seaside resort, while Gruissan provides a more diverse holiday experience.

Narbonne Plage

What is the best time of year to visit Gruissan for a beach holiday?

The best time for a beach-focused holiday in Gruissan is from late June to late August. During these months, you'll experience the warmest weather and sea temperatures, with average water temperatures around 21-22°C (70-72°F). For those who want to enjoy the scenery and outdoor activities with fewer crowds, the shoulder seasons of May-June and September are also excellent, though the water will be cooler.

People Also Ask

Are there different types of beaches in Gruissan?

Yes, Gruissan has five main beaches, each with a different character. Plage des Chalets is the most famous with its stilt houses. Plage du Grazel is a sheltered, town-center beach ideal for families. Plage des Ayguades and Plage de Mateille are popular for watersports, with a portion of Mateille being naturist-friendly. Finally, Plage de la Vieille Nouvelle (also called Plage des Salins) is the wildest and most natural, popular with kitesurfers seeking tranquility.

Is Gruissan more for a party holiday or a quiet getaway?

Gruissan caters more to families, couples, and those looking for a relaxed or active holiday rather than a major party scene. While the marina has lively bars and restaurants with live music in the summer, the overall vibe is more of a charming, laid-back seaside town. It's perfect for a relaxing beach trip, a romantic getaway, or an adventurous holiday focused on watersports and nature.

Do I need a car to enjoy a holiday in Gruissan?

While a car is convenient for exploring the wider Occitanie region, it is not strictly necessary for a holiday focused on Gruissan itself. The town, port, and beaches are well-connected by footpaths, cycle lanes, and a local bus service. You can easily get by without a car if you plan to stay within Gruissan, but renting one is recommended for day trips to places like Narbonne or Carcassonne.

Are there beach clubs or restaurants directly on the sand?

Yes, particularly at Plage des Chalets, you will find several beach bars and restaurants. These range from casual snack bars to more stylish restaurants with terraces offering elevated views over the sea. Establishments like Le Paparazzo are popular for their food and views, allowing you to dine with your feet almost in the sand and enjoy the sunset.

Plage des chalets