Are there any real beaches in Paris?
No, Paris is a landlocked city and does not have natural beaches. During the summer, the city organizes the 'Paris Plages' event, creating temporary artificial beaches with sand, deckchairs, and palm trees along the banks of the Seine River and the Bassin de la Villette. However, for natural seaside beaches, Parisians and tourists typically travel to the coasts of Normandy or Hauts-de-France.
What are the closest beaches to Paris by train?
The closest beaches to Paris by train are on the Hauts-de-France and Normandy coasts. In Hauts-de-France, you can reach Le Touquet-Paris-Plage in about 2.5 hours from Gare du Nord. The beaches of the Baie de Somme, like Le Crotoy, are also accessible in under 2 hours by train to the nearby station of Noyelles-sur-Mer. In Normandy, Deauville and Trouville are popular choices, reachable in about 2 hours and 15 minutes from Gare Saint-Lazare.
Is the water warm enough for swimming on the Hauts-de-France coast?
The sea on the Hauts-de-France coast, which is the English Channel, is quite cool even in summer. Water temperatures in July and August typically average around 18°C (64°F). While many people do swim, especially on hot days, the water is considered bracing. The vast sandy beaches are perfect for sunbathing and paddling, but if you're looking for warm water, this might not be the ideal destination.
Which beach town in Hauts-de-France is best for a family holiday?
Berck-sur-Mer is widely considered one of the most family-friendly beach towns in the region. It offers a huge sandy beach, which is safe for children, and is famous for its International Kite Festival. The town has a relaxed atmosphere and many family-oriented activities. Fort-Mahon-Plage is another excellent choice with its vast beach, dunes, and activities like sand-yachting suitable for older children and teens.
What is there to do on the beaches of Hauts-de-France besides swimming?
The beaches of Hauts-de-France, particularly the Opal Coast, are famous for a wide range of activities beyond swimming. Due to the wide, flat sands and consistent winds, land sailing (char à voile) is extremely popular. You can also enjoy kite flying, horseback riding on the beach, and exploring the vast dune systems. A unique local activity is 'longe-côte', which is a form of coastal hiking in the sea.
Is Le Touquet-Paris-Plage as chic and expensive as its name suggests?
Le Touquet-Paris-Plage has a reputation for being an elegant and upscale resort, historically popular with wealthy Parisians, which is reflected in its beautiful Anglo-Norman villas, high-end boutiques, and fine-dining restaurants. While it can be more expensive than other towns on the Opal Coast, it offers a range of accommodation and dining options to suit different budgets. The 'Paris-Plage' part of its name was adopted to attract Parisian tourists, and it has maintained its chic vibe.
Can I see the coast of England from the beaches in Hauts-de-France?
Yes, on a clear day, you can see the white cliffs of Dover in England from certain points on the Hauts-de-France coast. The best views are from Cap Blanc-Nez, a majestic white chalk cliff that is one of the closest points in mainland Europe to England. The view is a popular attraction for visitors and highlights the unique geography of the region.
Where can I see the seal colony in the Baie de Somme?
The Baie de Somme is home to the largest colony of harbour seals in France. A great spot to observe them is at the Pointe du Hourdel, especially at low tide when they rest on the sandbanks. You can also see them from the beaches of Le Crotoy and Saint-Valery-sur-Somme. For a better and more respectful viewing experience, consider taking a guided nature walk or a boat tour.
From Paris, should I go to the beaches in Normandy or Hauts-de-France?
The choice between Normandy and Hauts-de-France beaches depends on your preferences. Hauts-de-France's Opal Coast offers vast, sandy beaches perfect for land sailing and kite flying, with resorts like Le Touquet known for their elegance. Normandy offers a mix of sandy and pebble beaches, charming towns like Deauville and Honfleur, and is rich in history, particularly the D-Day landing beaches. Both are about 2-3 hours from Paris by train, so the decision often comes down to the desired atmosphere and activities.
What kind of clothes should I pack for a beach trip to Northern France?
For a beach trip to Hauts-de-France, it's wise to pack layers. Even in summer, the weather can be unpredictable with wind and cooler temperatures, especially in the evenings. Essentials include a swimsuit, beach towel, and sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), but also a windproof jacket, a warm sweater or fleece, and comfortable shoes for walking on the sand and exploring the towns. A light jacket is recommended even on sunny days.
How do I get from the train station to the beach in Le Touquet?
The train station for Le Touquet is actually in the neighbouring town of Étaples, called 'Étaples-Le Touquet'. From the station, the beach is about seven kilometers away. You can easily reach the center of Le Touquet and the beach by taking a local bus or a shuttle ('navette') which usually waits for incoming trains from Paris. The journey takes about 10-15 minutes.
Are the beaches in Hauts-de-France suitable for a quiet, relaxing holiday?
Yes, while some resorts like Le Touquet can be lively, the Hauts-de-France coast offers many opportunities for a quiet and relaxing holiday. The beaches are so vast that you can always find a peaceful spot, especially if you walk a little way from the main entrances. For a truly tranquil experience, consider visiting the wilder beaches around Wissant and the Baie de Somme, or visit during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) when there are fewer crowds.
