Occitanie, South of France (le Midi), France

Marseillan Beaches

Overview

In the South of France, Marseillan offers a classic Mediterranean beach holiday with a unique twist. The destination is split into two distinct areas: there is the charming, historic port of Marseillan Ville, set on the shores of the vast Thau lagoon, and Marseillan Plage, the seaside resort with kilometers of fine, golden sand. This separation allows visitors to enjoy both the relaxed beach life and the authentic atmosphere of a traditional French village just a short distance apart.

The coastline's variety is one of its greatest assets. For a feeling of true wilderness and escape, the immense, protected dune system at Plage de l'Espiguette is an iconic, must-see landscape. Families with small children often prefer La Plagette Beach, a small, sheltered beach on the calm Thau lagoon perfect for paddling and playing. For a more peaceful day by the sea, Plage de Robinson provides a beautiful, natural setting right next to a protected nature reserve. The resort's main beach, Plage d'Honneur, is the most central and lively stretch, ideal for those who want to be close to the town's shops and restaurants.

Overall, Marseillan provides a more relaxed and family-oriented atmosphere compared to some of its larger, bustling neighbors. It strikes a balance between lively resort areas and serene natural beauty. While our editor's picks highlight some of the most distinctive shores, from wild coastlines to calm lagoon spots, there are many other stretches of sand to explore. See our complete guide to discover the full range of beaches Marseillan has to offer.

Top Beaches

FAQ

What's the difference between Marseillan Ville and Marseillan Plage?

Marseillan is split into two distinct areas: Marseillan Ville is the charming, historic port town located on the banks of the Étang de Thau lagoon, about 5-6 kilometers from the sea. Marseillan Plage is the modern seaside resort directly on the Mediterranean, with long sandy beaches, campsites, and holiday rentals. They are connected by road and cycle paths, but they offer very different holiday experiences.

Marseillan Plage

Is Marseillan a good destination for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Marseillan Plage is widely considered an excellent destination for families. The main beaches, like Plage d'Honneur, have fine sand and a gentle slope into the sea, making them safe for children. The atmosphere is generally more relaxed and family-oriented than in neighboring resorts. Many campsites and holiday parks cater specifically to families with kids' clubs and activities.

Marseillan Plage

How do the beaches at Marseillan Plage compare to Cap d'Agde?

Marseillan Plage is generally seen as the quieter, more family-focused alternative to the larger and livelier Cap d'Agde. While both offer long sandy beaches, Marseillan's are often described as more relaxed. Cap d'Agde is a much bigger resort with more nightlife, a wider range of restaurants, a large marina, and the world-famous naturist village, which is a distinct section of the resort.

Marseillan Plage

Cap d’Agde

Can you swim in the Étang de Thau as well as the sea?

While the main swimming and beach activities are on the Mediterranean side at Marseillan Plage, you can swim in the Étang de Thau. The lagoon's water is saltier and generally calmer than the sea, but there are fewer designated swimming beaches. The lagoon is primarily used for oyster and mussel farming and watersports like kitesurfing and sailing. Most holidaymakers stick to the sandy beaches of the Mediterranean for swimming and sunbathing.

Marseillan Plage

How do you get from Marseillan Ville to the beach?

The historic town and the beach are about 6 kilometers apart. You can travel between them by car, which takes about 10 minutes. There is also a seasonal bus service (line 9 in summer) that connects the two areas. A popular and scenic option is to use the dedicated cycle paths that offer a flat and safe ride between the port and the sea.

What are the beaches like and are they crowded?

The beaches at Marseillan Plage are characterized by long, wide stretches of fine, golden sand that slope gently into the Mediterranean. During the peak season of July and August, the central beaches near the main resort area can get very busy. However, because the coastline is so long, you can usually find quieter spots by walking further east towards Sète (Plage de Robinson) or west towards the Bagnas nature reserve.

Marseillan Plage

Are there naturist beaches in Marseillan?

While Marseillan Plage itself is primarily a family-oriented textile beach destination, there is a well-known unofficial naturist area. This is located at the western end of the beach, bordering the Bagnas nature reserve as you head towards Cap d'Agde. For an official and much larger naturist resort, you would need to go to the dedicated 'Quartier Naturiste' in neighboring Cap d'Agde.

Marseillan Plage

Cap d’Agde

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

For a classic sun and swimming holiday, the best time to visit is from June to September. July and August are the hottest and busiest months, with all services and activities fully operational. For pleasant weather with fewer crowds, consider visiting in June or September. Outside of these months, many beach-specific restaurants and shops may be closed, and the weather is less reliable for swimming.

People Also Ask

Is it easy to park near the beaches in Marseillan Plage?

Marseillan Plage has several free parking areas, including lots near the tourist office, the market square (Place du Marché), and along the main avenues. However, during the peak months of July and August, finding a free spot close to the central beaches can be challenging, especially in the middle of the day. Arriving early or being prepared to walk a little is recommended.

Marseillan Plage

Are there beach clubs or restaurants right on the sand?

Yes, Marseillan Plage has a number of private beach clubs ('paillotes') where you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas for the day and enjoy table service for drinks and food directly on the sand. There are also many restaurants and snack bars located along the promenade just behind the beach, offering a wide range of dining options with sea views.

Marseillan Plage

Is Marseillan a good destination for couples?

Yes, Marseillan can be a great destination for couples. While the beach area is family-friendly, the charming old port of Marseillan Ville offers a romantic setting with its quayside restaurants, wine bars like those of Noilly Prat, and beautiful sunsets over the Étang de Thau. Couples can enjoy boat trips, wine tasting, and cycling, combining beach relaxation with more cultural experiences.

Which is the main beach in Marseillan Plage?

The main and most central beach is the Plage d'Honneur. It is located right in the heart of the resort, stretching from the port area westwards. This beach is popular because it's easily accessible, supervised in summer, and close to shops, restaurants, and parking. It also has facilities for people with reduced mobility.