Marquet Beach, also known as Plage Marquet, is a scenic coastal spot situated in Cap-d'Ail, in the Alpes-Maritimes department of the PACA region in France. It is the nearest beach to the Fontvieille neighborhood of Monaco, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Covering a stretch of 200 meters, the beach exhibits a natural blend of sand and pebbles, with sea glass strewn here and there, adding to its charm. The water at Marquet Beach is known for its pristine clarity, contributing to the overall cleanliness of the beach.
The beach offers a host of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit for beachgoers. These include a nautical center, two bars and restaurants, a volleyball court, and a bocci ball court. For those seeking shade, there are two tents available on the beach. The beach also provides specific equipment like flotation devices, armbands, and boards. Accessible facilities such as toilets, showers, and changing rooms are provided within a 100-meter radius of the beach. Moreover, the beach is wheelchair-friendly, with a ramp near the parking area facilitating easy access.
Parking is conveniently available near the beach, making it easily accessible for visitors. To reach the parking area, visitors can pass through Monaco and the Louis II Stadium (Avenue des Castelans) and then take Avenue Marquet to the end. An alternative route involves taking the Coquille staircase from Avenue Churchill, though parking might be a bit challenging to find using this route.
Despite its popularity, the crowd levels at Marquet Beach can fluctuate and are not consistently high. This variability, along with the frequent sight of helicopters in the sky, adds to the unique atmosphere of the beach.
In terms of safety, the beach has a lifeguard station nearby, operational from July 10th to August 31st. Assistants are present from 10:40 am to 6:00 pm daily to provide support and help as needed.
Overall, Marquet Beach, with its natural beauty, range of amenities, and easy accessibility, offers a delightful beach experience with stunning views of the Principality of Monaco and the port of Cap-d'Ail.