Morlaix Beaches

Overview

While the historic port of Morlaix is not a coastal town itself, it serves as the perfect gateway to the beautiful Bay of Morlaix and its diverse collection of beaches. A short drive will take you to the main seaside resorts of Carantec, Locquirec, and Plougasnou, each offering a unique coastal experience. Whether you seek bustling family beaches or quiet, secluded coves, the bay's shoreline is dotted with options to suit every visitor, all framed by the dramatic, tide-swept landscapes Brittany is famous for.

The area boasts a variety of sandy beaches ideal for any holiday. For a classic family day out, Plage du Kélenn in Carantec is the bay's lively heart, while Plage de Primel in Plougasnou is another large, supervised beach perfect for children. For those seeking breathtaking views, the stunning Plage de Tahiti offers postcard-worthy scenery of the bay's famous landmarks. Nearby, the town of Locquirec is home to the popular Plage des Sables Blancs, a beautiful stretch of fine sand favored by families and surfers alike.

Beyond the main beaches, the Bay of Morlaix invites exploration. The coastline's character changes dramatically with the tides, revealing rock pools and pathways to small islands. For an unforgettable day trip, venture to the spectacular pink granite rock formations accessible from La Plage Saint Guirec. To discover even more hidden gems and local favorites, from sheltered creeks to expansive sands, be sure to explore our complete guide to the beaches of the Morlaix region.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Morlaix itself a beach town?

No, Morlaix is not directly on the coast. It's a historic port town situated at the end of a long, river-like estuary. The actual beaches are located a short drive away, primarily in the seaside resorts of Carantec, Locquirec, and Plougasnou, which surround the Bay of Morlaix.

How do you get to the beaches from Morlaix?

The easiest way to reach the beaches from Morlaix is by car, with most coastal spots being a 15-30 minute drive. A local bus network, Linéotim, also connects Morlaix to the main beach towns like Carantec (line 28) and Plougasnou (line 20). In July and August, some of these seaside resorts offer free local shuttle buses to help visitors get around.

What are the beaches like around Morlaix? Are they sandy?

The Bay of Morlaix offers a wide variety of beaches. You'll find large, fine sandy beaches perfect for families, such as Plage du Kélenn in Carantec and Plage de Primel in Plougasnou. There are also many smaller, secluded coves and creeks with a mix of sand and pebbles, often accessible via the GR34 coastal path.

Plage du Kélenn

Plage de Primel

Can you swim in the sea near Morlaix? What is the water temperature like?

Yes, you can swim in the Bay of Morlaix, especially during the summer months. However, the water is typical of Brittany and remains cool, with average summer temperatures reaching around 16-17°C (61-63°F). The water does not typically get warm enough for what most would consider comfortable swimming for long periods.

What is the best time of year for a beach holiday in Morlaix?

The best time for a beach-focused holiday is from late June to early September. During these months, you'll experience the warmest weather and most pleasant sea temperatures for activities like swimming and sunbathing. July and August are the peak season, with more services available, including lifeguard surveillance on some beaches.

Are the beaches near Morlaix good for families with children?

Yes, many beaches in the area are very family-friendly. Plage du Kélenn in Carantec is a great example, offering a playground, beach club, and lifeguard supervision in the summer. Plage de Primel in Plougasnou is another long, sandy beach ideal for families. Many beaches have rock pools that appear at low tide, which are perfect for children to explore.

Plage du Kélenn

Plage de Primel

Do you need to worry about tides at the beaches in the Bay of Morlaix?

Yes, paying attention to the tides is very important in the Bay of Morlaix. The tidal range can be significant, dramatically changing the landscape of the beaches. Some locations, like the causeway to Île Callot, are only accessible at low tide. Always check the tide times before heading out, especially if you plan to walk to tidal islands or go shore fishing.

Which is better for beaches, Carantec or Plougasnou?

Both Carantec and Plougasnou offer excellent but different beach experiences. Carantec, on the western side of the bay, is known for family-friendly beaches like Le Kélenn and the unique Île Callot, accessible at low tide. Plougasnou, on the eastern side, features a longer coastline with a mix of large sandy beaches like Primel-Trégastel and numerous secluded coves. The choice depends on whether you prefer a lively resort feel (Carantec) or a more sprawling, diverse coastline (Plougasnou).

People Also Ask

Are there any hidden gem or secret beaches to escape the crowds?

Yes, the coastline is dotted with quieter spots. In Carantec, Plage de Tahiti is a beautiful, slightly more secluded beach accessed by stairs. In Plougasnou, the south-facing coves like Plage de Ty Louzou are appreciated by locals for their tranquility. Exploring the GR34 coastal path is a great way to discover your own hidden coves away from the main beaches.

Plage de Tahiti

Is it better to stay in Morlaix or a seaside town like Carantec for a beach holiday?

If your main goal is to spend time on the beach, staying in a seaside town like Carantec, Locquirec, or Plougasnou is more convenient. This gives you direct access to the coast and a holiday resort atmosphere. If you prefer a base with more history, restaurants, and shops, and don't mind driving to the beaches, the charming town of Morlaix is an excellent choice.

What is Île Callot and how do you visit it?

Île Callot is a small island off the coast of Carantec, known for its beautiful sandy coves, dunes, and chapel. It is a tidal island, connected to the mainland by a causeway that is only passable on foot or by car at low tide. It's essential to check the tide schedule before visiting to ensure you have enough time to explore and return safely before the sea covers the road.

Are there opportunities for water sports at the beaches?

Yes, the Bay of Morlaix is a popular spot for water sports. The nautical center at Plage du Kélenn in Carantec offers sailing and diving. Plage des Sables Blancs in Locquirec and Plage de Primel in Plougasnou are known spots for surfing and paddleboarding. You can also find kayak rentals at several of the larger beaches.

Plage du Kélenn

Plage de Primel

How does the Bay of Morlaix compare to the Pink Granite Coast for a holiday?

The Bay of Morlaix offers a more varied landscape of deep estuaries, islands, and diverse beaches, with a focus on seaside towns like Carantec and Plougasnou. The Pink Granite Coast (Côte de Granit Rose), further east, is famous for its unique pink-hued rock formations and dramatic coastal paths. While both are beautiful parts of Brittany, Morlaix Bay is perhaps more about sheltered coves and boating, whereas the Pink Granite Coast is more about the spectacular and unique geology of its coastline.