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

Noves Beaches

Overview

While Noves is a charming inland town in the heart of Provence, it serves as an excellent base for discovering the diverse beaches of the Mediterranean coast. The nearest shores are about an hour's drive away, making seaside day trips a perfect addition to a Provençal holiday. A car is essential to explore the coastline, giving you the freedom to discover everything from vast, wild sands to secluded, intimate coves.

The region offers two distinct coastal experiences. To the west lies the Camargue, a unique natural park known for its wild, expansive beaches like Plage de l'Espiguette, which is famous for its massive system of sand dunes. To the east, the Côte Bleue and Calanques National Park feature dramatic limestone cliffs and stunning turquoise inlets. Here you'll find the breathtakingly beautiful Calanque d'En-vau and the iconic Calanque de Port Pin. For a more relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, the sandy shores of Plage de St Croix are a favorite among locals.

Whether you prefer the untamed, open spaces of the Camargue, exemplified by the immense Plage de Piémanson, or the sheltered, scenic coves of the calanques, there is a perfect beach day waiting for you. Each area provides a completely different landscape and atmosphere, catering to all tastes. For more inspiration and to find other coastal gems, be sure to explore our complete guide to the best beaches near Noves.

FAQ

People Also Ask

Are there any beaches actually in Noves?

No, Noves is a traditional inland town in Provence and does not have its own beaches. The nearest beaches on the Mediterranean coast are approximately an hour to an hour-and-a-half drive away, making day trips to the sea a popular activity for visitors staying in Noves.

How far is Noves from the nearest beach?

The closest Mediterranean beaches to Noves are about a 60- to 75-minute drive. The beaches of the Camargue, like Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, are about 70 km away, while the coves of the Côte Bleue (Blue Coast) near Marseille are a similar distance.

Is Noves a good base for a beach holiday?

Noves is an excellent base for exploring the heart of Provence, including Avignon, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, and the Luberon, with the option for occasional beach day trips. However, if your main goal is to spend every day by the sea, a coastal town would be more suitable.

Do I need a car to visit the beaches from Noves?

Yes, a car is essential for reaching the coast from Noves. Public transportation options are generally indirect and time-consuming, making a rental car the only practical way to enjoy a day trip to the beaches of the Camargue or the Côte Bleue.

Which are better for a day trip from Noves: Camargue or Côte Bleue beaches?

It depends on your preference. The Camargue offers vast, wild, and sandy beaches like Plage de Piémanson, which are great for a sense of open space. The Côte Bleue, to the west of Marseille, features smaller, more sheltered coves (calanques) with pebbles and clearer water, such as those near Carry-le-Rouet and Sausset-les-Pins.

Are there freshwater swimming spots near Noves as an alternative to the sea?

Yes, river and lake swimming is very popular in this part of Provence. Many people swim in the Gardon river, especially near the famous Pont du Gard. There are also several managed lakes (plans d'eau) nearby, such as the Lac de Monteux, which offer safe swimming and leisure activities.

What are the best family-friendly beaches to visit from Noves?

For families, the main beaches at Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer in the Camargue are a good choice due to their vast sandy expanses and nearby amenities. On the Côte Bleue, the Plage de Sainte-Croix near Martigues is known for its fine sand and relatively sheltered waters, making it popular with families.

When is the best time of year for beach trips from Noves?

June and September are the ideal months for beach excursions. The weather is warm and the sea temperature is pleasant, but you'll avoid the intense heat and the peak tourist crowds of July and August, making the drive and the beach experience more enjoyable.

What is the water like for swimming at the nearest beaches?

On the Côte Bleue, the water in the calanques is typically very clear, turquoise, and calm. In the Camargue, the water is generally safe for swimming but can be less clear due to the fine sand and the influence of the Rhône river delta. It can also be windier and wavier than the sheltered coves of the Côte Bleue.

Are there any naturist or clothing-optional beaches near Noves?

Yes, one of France's most famous and largest naturist beaches is located nearby. The Plage de Piémanson in the Camargue has a vast, officially designated clothing-optional section known for its wild, unspoiled landscape.

Beaches for Every Taste

Local gems for everyone

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Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Noves: Weather Today

📅 Friday, July 25, 2025
Today looks like a decent beach day in Noves. The air temperature will reach a high of 28.3 °C. Expect mostly clear skies with only a few clouds. The wind might be a bit strong at times, so be prepared for that. The UV index will be high at 7.2, so make sure to apply sunscreen regularly. Overall, it should be pleasant for sunbathing and other beach activities.
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Air

Low / High17.1°C/28.3°C
Feels Like (High)25.2°C
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Rain

Rain Chance0%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset06:21/21:11
Sunshine Hours13.7 hrs
UV Index7.2
Cloud Cover11%
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Wind

Speed32.6 km/h
Gusts56.2 km/h
DirectionNW

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