La Plagette, also known as Plage Nord, is a small, charming city beach situated in the heart of Mèze, Hérault, France. It lies nestled between the marina and the fishing port of Mèze, on the northern side of the Thau lagoon. The beach offers picturesque views of Sète and is known for its warm, clear, and tranquil waters of the lagoon, which are not muddy. The beach's gentle slope and shallow waters make it an ideal location for families with children.
Despite its small size, La Plagette is well-equipped with a range of amenities. It is supervised during the summer months, ensuring a safe swimming environment. The beach has a lifeguard station and a first aid station nearby. Additionally, an area is designated for easy access to the beach and it also features adapted toilets and a wheelchair for water access, demonstrating its commitment to accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
For recreational activities, the beach offers a children's playground. Visitors can also enjoy the large square with benches situated in front of the beach, providing a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the sea view. A cycling path runs along the beach, passing through the port and leading to the southern beach.
In terms of dining and refreshment options, La Plagette is conveniently located near several establishments including a beachside brewery, an ice cream shop, and a number of restaurants at the port. A shop selling beach paraphernalia is also located nearby.
Parking at La Plagette is straightforward, with a parking area available for visitors. The parking area is located across the square and offers free spaces, including three parking spaces reserved for disabled individuals. Despite the beach's popularity, particularly in July and August, it does not get overly crowded, offering a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere for beachgoers.
One unique feature of La Plagette is the close proximity of fish to swimmers, often touching their legs. There may be small, harmless jellyfish when the wind comes from the sea. The beach intentionally leaves algae on the shore during the off-season to protect the coastline. Despite being slightly tidal, the waters of La Plagette maintain their clarity and warm temperature, adding to its appeal as a safe and enjoyable place for swimming and sunbathing.
