Houlgate Beaches

Overview

Nestled on Normandy's scenic Côte Fleurie, Houlgate offers a classic seaside escape with a distinctly relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere. It stands as a quieter alternative to its more famous neighbors, swapping glamour for a more intimate charm. The town is defined by its long, golden sandy beach, which is famously lined with magnificent Belle Époque villas, creating a picturesque backdrop for a traditional beach holiday. This unique setting provides a serene environment perfect for both relaxation and family activities.

The coastline here presents a variety of memorable beach experiences. The main Houlgate Beach is the heart of the resort, offering beautiful scenery framed by the unique Vaches Noires cliffs. Just a short journey away, you can experience the romantic atmosphere of Plage de Cabourg with its grand promenade, or the chic, vibrant resort feel of the iconic Deauville Beach. For those willing to venture further, the world-renowned cliffs and natural arches of Plage d'Étretat make for an unforgettable day trip and a highlight of the Normandy coast.

Beyond the main resorts, the area holds other gems like Plage de Villers-sur-Mer, another charming beach known for its connection to the Vaches Noires cliffs. A key feature of the region is the dramatic tidal range, which transforms the coastline daily; at low tide, the sea reveals a vast expanse of sand perfect for long walks and exploring. For a comprehensive look at all the coastal treasures this area has to offer, be sure to explore our longer list of the best beaches in and around Houlgate.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Houlgate a good destination for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Houlgate is widely considered an excellent destination for a family beach holiday. It is known for its calm and family-friendly atmosphere, with a long sandy beach perfect for children. The town offers numerous activities geared towards families, including beach clubs for kids, mini-golf, and a variety of water sports suitable for all ages. The beach is supervised by lifeguards at two stations during the season, ensuring safety for swimmers.

Houlgate Beach

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

Yes, you can swim in the sea at Houlgate. The beach has a gentle slope and generally calm waters, making it suitable for swimming. The water temperature is typical for the English Channel, reaching its warmest in August at around 19°C (66°F). While refreshing, some may find it chilly. It's always a good idea to check local conditions and lifeguard flags before entering the water.

Houlgate Beach

How does Houlgate beach compare to Cabourg or Deauville?

Houlgate is often described as a quieter, more family-oriented alternative to its famous neighbors. While Deauville is known for its glamour and bustling atmosphere and Cabourg for its romantic, grand seaside promenade, Houlgate offers a more relaxed, intimate vibe with its charming Belle Époque villas lining the beach. The beach itself is a long stretch of fine sand, similar to Cabourg, but the overall town feels less commercial and more like a traditional family resort.

Houlgate Beach

Plage de Cabourg

Deauville Beach

What do you need to know about the tides at Houlgate beach?

The tides have a significant impact at Houlgate, with a very large tidal range. At low tide, the sea can retreat a considerable distance, revealing a vast expanse of wet sand perfect for walking, shell collecting, and shore fishing. Conversely, at high tide, the water comes up very close to the promenade. It is essential to check the tide times before your visit to plan activities like swimming or sunbathing, as the walk to the water's edge can be quite long when the tide is out.

Houlgate Beach

Are there hotels with a sea view right on Houlgate beach?

Houlgate's seafront is famously lined with magnificent Belle Époque villas rather than a continuous strip of large hotels. While there are no hotels directly on the sand, several hotels and accommodations are located just behind the promenade or on streets with direct beach access, offering beautiful sea views from their rooms. The historic former Grand Hôtel is a key landmark on the promenade, though it is no longer a hotel. Booking accommodation with a 'vue sur mer' (sea view) is a popular choice.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Houlgate Beach

Are dogs allowed on Houlgate beach?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Houlgate beach, but with seasonal restrictions. Generally, from October to April, dogs on a leash are welcome on the entire beach. During the peak season, from May to September, they are typically restricted to the wet sand area at low tide, a certain distance away from the main supervised bathing areas. It's always best to check the latest local regulations upon arrival.

Houlgate Beach

What is the best way to get to the beach and where can I park?

Houlgate's main beach is easily accessible from the town center. The Rue des Bains runs parallel to the seafront, with several paths leading directly onto the sand. For parking, there are several options available near the beach, though they can fill up quickly during peak summer months. Arriving early is recommended to find a spot. The Plage du Temple section of the beach is known to have slightly easier parking than the more central Plage du Casino area.

Houlgate Beach

What are the 'Falaises des Vaches Noires' next to the beach?

The 'Falaises des Vaches Noires' (Cliffs of the Black Cows) are a remarkable natural feature located at the eastern end of Houlgate's beach, extending towards Villers-sur-Mer. They are named for the dark-colored rocks that resemble a herd of cows from the sea. These cliffs are a protected geological site famous for being rich in Jurassic-period fossils. You can walk along the base of the cliffs at low tide to hunt for fossils, but be mindful of the tide times and potential for landslides.

Houlgate Beach

People Also Ask

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

The best time for a classic beach holiday in Houlgate is during the summer months, from June to August. During this period, you'll experience the warmest weather, with average high temperatures between 20°C and 22°C (68°F - 72°F), and the most sunshine. This is the ideal time for swimming and water sports. Spring and early autumn are also lovely for visiting, with fewer crowds, but the weather and water will be cooler.

Besides sunbathing, what activities can you do on Houlgate beach?

Houlgate beach is a hub for various activities. At low tide, the expansive sand is perfect for sand yachting, kite flying, and horseback riding. The local sailing school offers courses in sailing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. The promenade, known as the Promenade Roland Garros, is ideal for walking and cycling with views of the sea and the historic villas. Additionally, the annual 'Houlgate Plein Vent' festival celebrates wind sports with impressive kite displays.

Houlgate Beach

Is it easy to get to Houlgate from Paris for a beach trip?

Yes, Houlgate is a popular weekend and holiday destination for Parisians. The easiest way to travel is by car, which takes a little over two hours. Alternatively, you can take a train from Paris Saint-Lazare station. The journey typically involves a change at Trouville-Deauville and takes around three hours in total to reach Houlgate's town-center station, which is a short walk from the beach.

Are there beach huts or umbrellas for rent at Houlgate?

Yes, one of the charming features of Houlgate beach during the summer is the presence of colorful beach tents and umbrellas available for rent. You can typically rent them for a day or a longer period from providers located on the beach. This is a very popular tradition on the Normandy coast and adds to the classic seaside atmosphere.

Houlgate Beach