Are there any actual beaches in Meaux?
Yes, Meaux has an artificial beach called Plage de Meaux, located in the Parc Naturel du Pâtis on the banks of the Marne river. It features fine white sand and offers supervised swimming during the summer season.
Is Meaux in Normandy and a typical seaside beach destination?
No, Meaux is located in the Île-de-France region, about 40km east of Paris, not in Normandy. While it has Plage de Meaux on the river Marne, it's not a traditional seaside beach destination like those found in Normandy, which are several hours away by car.
When is Plage de Meaux open?
Plage de Meaux is typically open seasonally during the summer months, usually from early July to late August. For example, in 2024, it's scheduled to be open from July 6 to August 25.
Can you swim at Plage de Meaux and what is the water like?
Yes, supervised swimming is allowed in a designated area of the Marne river at Plage de Meaux. The water is described as clear, and its quality is monitored. The swimming area is about 60 meters long and 15 meters wide.
What facilities are available at Plage de Meaux?
Plage de Meaux offers various facilities including supervised swimming, a wading pool, showers, toilets, lifeguards, and changing cabins. There are often refreshment stands, play areas for children, and sports facilities like beach volleyball.
Is Plage de Meaux free to enter?
Yes, entry to Plage de Meaux and access to swimming is generally free.
Is Plage de Meaux suitable for families with children?
Yes, Plage de Meaux is considered very family-friendly. It offers a sandy beach, shallow water near the shore, a wading pool, playgrounds, and various activities suitable for children.
What kind of activities can you do at Plage de Meaux besides swimming?
Besides swimming, visitors can enjoy sunbathing, beach volleyball, beach soccer, badminton, table tennis, mini-golf, and sometimes even tree climbing structures or arcade games. Renting electric boats for a trip on the Marne is also an option nearby.
How do I get to Plage de Meaux?
Plage de Meaux is located in the Parc Naturel du Pâtis. It is accessible by local bus from Meaux town center (e.g., lines 19, 69E, F, FS, K), by car (parking is available), or by bicycle. The Meaux train station is about a 6-minute walk from some bus stops serving the beach area.
What is the atmosphere like at Plage de Meaux?
Plage de Meaux offers a summer vacation atmosphere close to Paris, with a 'guinguette' (open-air cafe/dance hall) vibe. It's a popular spot for locals, families, and tourists looking to cool off and relax.
Are there alternatives to Plage de Meaux for a beach holiday if I'm staying in Meaux?
Plage de Meaux is the main beach-like offering in Meaux. For traditional seaside beaches, you would need to travel to coastal regions like Normandy, which are several hours away. Meaux itself is better suited for cultural tourism, with the river beach as a summer amenity.
What should I bring to Plage de Meaux?
You should bring your swimsuit (compulsory for swimming), a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a picnic. While there are some food stalls, bringing your own snacks and water is also an option.
Is Meaux a good base for exploring the D-Day beaches in Normandy?
No, Meaux is not a practical base for exploring the D-Day beaches in Normandy. Meaux is in the Île-de-France region, east of Paris, while the Normandy D-Day beaches are on the coast, a significant distance away (several hours by car).
Are there any rules I should be aware of at Plage de Meaux?
Swimsuits are mandatory for swimming. Supervised swimming is only within the designated areas and times. It's also noted that no alcohol is allowed, contributing to its family-friendly environment.
Can I rent boats or do other water sports on the Marne near Plage de Meaux?
Yes, you can rent electric, license-free boats from Marin d'Eau Douce near Plage de Meaux for trips on the Marne river. Other activities like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding have also been mentioned as available in the area.
