Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, South of France (le Midi), France

Martigues Beaches

Overview

Nestled on the sunny Côte Bleue, Martigues offers a classic South of France beach experience. A key question for many visitors is about the beaches themselves, and Martigues delivers with its beautiful sandy shores, a feature that sets it apart in a region often known for pebbles. This makes the area an ideal choice for families and anyone seeking a relaxed day of sunbathing on soft, golden sand.

Among the must-visit spots is Plage du Verdon, the largest and most popular beach, perfect for a classic day by the sea. For breathtaking scenery, the beautiful Plage de St Croix is framed by pine-covered cliffs and a historic chapel. Fans of French television will recognize Plage de La Saulce, famous as a filming location, while the stunning Calanque d'En-vau offers an unforgettable day trip for those seeking dramatic landscapes.

The atmosphere across Martigues' coastline is generally relaxed and family-oriented, focusing on swimming and sunbathing rather than a party scene. Whether you're looking for a spacious bay or a scenic cove, the area provides a perfect setting for a quintessential sandy beach holiday. For more hidden gems and quieter spots, be sure to explore our complete guide to the beaches of Martigues.

Top Beaches

FAQ

What are the beaches in Martigues actually like, are they sandy or pebbly?

The beaches along the Martigues section of the Côte Bleue (Blue Coast) are known for being exclusively sandy. This is a key feature, as many other beaches along this coastline are pebbly. You'll find fine, golden sand at popular spots like Plage du Verdon, Plage de Sainte-Croix, and Plage de la Saulce, making them great for families and sunbathing.

Plage du Verdon

Plage de St Croix

Plage de La Saulce

Is Martigues a good destination for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Martigues is considered an excellent destination for a family beach holiday. Beaches like Plage du Verdon, the largest on the Côte Bleue, and Plage de Sainte-Croix are particularly family-friendly. They offer fine sand, shallow waters for safe paddling, and are supervised by lifeguards during the summer season. Many also have amenities like toilets, showers, and nearby snack bars or restaurants.

Plage du Verdon

Plage de St Croix

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

Absolutely. The seawater at Martigues' beaches is known for its clear, turquoise quality and has been awarded the Blue Flag for cleanliness for several years. The water is generally calm and pleasant for swimming, especially in the sheltered coves like Verdon. Water temperatures are most comfortable for swimming from June to September, peaking in August.

How do you get to the beaches from Martigues town centre?

Most of the popular beaches are located in the coastal villages of La Couronne and Carro, a short drive from the Martigues town centre. You can drive and use the paid parking lots available at many beaches. Alternatively, the Ulysse bus network (Line 30) connects the town to the beaches. The 'Train de la Côte Bleue' also stops at La Couronne station, from which you can walk or take a short bus ride to several beaches.

Are there campsites near the beaches in Martigues?

Yes, there are several campsites located very close to the beaches, particularly in the La Couronne area. Camping Le Mas and Camping La Source are situated near Plage de Sainte-Croix and Plage de la Saulce, offering direct access to the coast. These are popular choices for holidaymakers looking to stay within walking distance of the sea.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Plage de St Croix

Plage de La Saulce

Which is the best beach for families with kids in Martigues?

Plage du Verdon in La Couronne is often cited as the best beach for families. It's the largest sandy beach on the Côte Bleue, set in a large, sheltered cove which means the water is calm. It's supervised in summer and has plenty of facilities, including toilets, showers, volleyball nets, and rentals for pedal boats and paddleboards. Plage de Sainte-Croix is another excellent, though smaller, option with fine sand and shallow water.

Plage du Verdon

Plage de St Croix

Are the beaches in Martigues crowded?

The main sandy beaches like Plage du Verdon and Plage de Sainte-Croix can get very popular and crowded, especially during July and August and on weekends. To avoid the biggest crowds, it's recommended to go on weekdays or arrive early in the morning. For a quieter experience, you could try smaller coves like Couronne-Vieille or the more remote Beaumaderie Beach.

Plage du Verdon

Plage de St Croix

Is it better to go to the beaches in Martigues or Cassis?

Choosing between Martigues and Cassis depends on your preference. Martigues is known for its accessible, large, sandy beaches, making it ideal for traditional family beach days. Cassis is famous for its stunning Calanques, which are dramatic limestone coves with small pebble beaches, often requiring a hike or boat trip to access. If you want easy access to wide sandy beaches, choose Martigues. For dramatic scenery and hiking to more secluded pebble coves, Cassis is the better choice.

People Also Ask

Are there any naturist beaches in Martigues?

Yes, there is a designated naturist beach in Martigues. Bonnieu Beach has a specific, separate area reserved for naturism. Access to this section is typically for members of the French Federation of Naturism, especially during the summer season.

Bonnieu's Naturist Beach

What's the best time of year to visit Martigues for a beach holiday?

The best time for a beach holiday in Martigues is from June to September. During these months, the weather is sunny and warm, and the sea temperature is pleasant for swimming. July and August are the hottest and busiest months. For a good balance of nice weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting in June or September.

I saw Plage de Sainte-Croix in a TV show, is that right?

Yes, you likely did! The area around Plage de Sainte-Croix, specifically the neighbouring Plage de la Saulce, is famously used as the filming location for the popular French TV series 'Camping Paradis'. The idyllic setting with its fine sand and clear water makes it a recognizable backdrop for fans of the show.

Plage de St Croix

Plage de La Saulce

Are there any beaches in Martigues town itself, or only on the coast?

Yes, there is a beach within the town of Martigues itself, called Plage de Ferrières. This sandy beach is located on the shore of the Étang de Berre, a large saltwater lagoon, and is very close to the city center. It's a popular spot with locals and features a park, playgrounds, and seasonal pop-up restaurants (guinguettes). However, the main seaside beaches are on the Mediterranean coast, a short drive away.

What's the vibe at the beaches? Is it for partying or relaxing?

The general atmosphere at Martigues' beaches is relaxed and family-oriented rather than a party scene. The vibe is centered around sunbathing, swimming, and family activities. While you'll find beachside restaurants and bars, especially at Plage du Verdon, the nightlife is not a major feature. The town itself has a charming, relaxed feel, reflected in its coastal areas.

Plage du Verdon

Are there any water sports available at the beaches?

Yes, you can find a variety of water sports. At the larger beaches like Plage du Verdon, you can rent pedal boats and stand-up paddleboards. The area is also known for windsurfing, especially at spots like Carro and Les Arnettes when conditions are right. For scuba diving and snorkeling, the clear waters of the Côte Bleue, particularly near Carro, offer excellent opportunities to explore marine life.

Plage du Verdon

Is there a beach near the fishing port of Carro?

Yes, there is a beach right in the village of Carro, located near its picturesque fishing port. Carro beach is a mix of sand and pebbles and is appreciated for its authentic atmosphere. It's a great spot to combine a swim with a visit to the daily fish market. The area is also popular with surfers and divers.

Martigues Beaches

Overview

Editor's Pick

Plage du Verdon

Plage de St Croix

Calanque d'En-vau

Plage de La Saulce

FAQ

What are the beaches in Martigues actually like, are they sandy or pebbly?

Is Martigues a good destination for a family beach holiday?

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

How do you get to the beaches from Martigues town centre?

Are there campsites near the beaches in Martigues?

Which is the best beach for families with kids in Martigues?

Are the beaches in Martigues crowded?

Is it better to go to the beaches in Martigues or Cassis?

The Quieter Coast

Plage des Beaumettes

Plagette du Four à Chaux

Calanque of Athénors

Plage du Rouet

People Also Ask

Are there any naturist beaches in Martigues?

What's the best time of year to visit Martigues for a beach holiday?

I saw Plage de Sainte-Croix in a TV show, is that right?

Are there any beaches in Martigues town itself, or only on the coast?

What's the vibe at the beaches? Is it for partying or relaxing?

Are there any water sports available at the beaches?

Is there a beach near the fishing port of Carro?

Beaches for Every Taste

Nudist Beaches in Martigues

The Storied Coast

Plage de La Saulce

Plage Fernandel

Plage du Cavaou

Piemanson

Explore More Local Beaches

Bonnieu's Naturist Beach

Dugue Beach

Plage Tambours

Grande Plage

Tiki Beach

Plage de Carteau

Martigues Beaches Map

Martigues: Weather Today

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