Perros-Guirec Beaches

Overview

Perros-Guirec is a premier beach destination nestled along Brittany's famed Pink Granite Coast. This charming area offers a wonderful variety of coastal experiences. You'll find everything from lively town beaches to more secluded, tranquil coves, making it an excellent choice for a seaside holiday.

Among the highlights, Trestraou Beach stands out as the main hub, a large sandy expanse perfect for families and activities. For a quieter atmosphere close to town, Plage de Trestrignel offers a peaceful retreat with lovely views and fine white sand. The iconic Plage de Saint-Guirec in Ploumanac'h captivates visitors with its stunning pink granite boulders and picturesque setting, truly embodying the unique beauty of this coastline.

The dramatic pink granite formations also grace the shores of nearby Trégastel, where beaches like Plage du Coz-Pors showcase uniquely sculpted rocks, and Plage de Tourony provides scenic views towards a castle. Whether you seek relaxation on the sand or gentle adventures exploring the striking coastline, Perros-Guirec delivers. For even more choices, be sure to explore our longer list of beaches in this beautiful region.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Perros-Guirec a good destination for a beach holiday?

Yes, Perros-Guirec is an excellent destination for a beach holiday, renowned for its stunning Pink Granite Coast, beautiful sandy beaches like Trestraou and Trestrignel, and charming coves. It offers a mix of lively town beaches and more secluded spots, making it suitable for various preferences.

Plage de Trestrignel

Trestraou Beach

What are the main beaches in Perros-Guirec and what are they like?

The two main beaches in Perros-Guirec are Plage de Trestraou, a large, lively, south-facing sandy beach with a promenade, casino, and watersports, and Plage de Trestrignel, often described as more sheltered, family-friendly, and known for its fine white sand and elegant villas. Plage de Saint-Guirec in Ploumanac'h, set amidst pink granite rocks with a view of Château de Costaérès, is also very popular and considered one of the most romantic.

Trestraou Beach

Plage de Trestrignel

Can you swim in the sea at Perros-Guirec? What is the water like?

Yes, you can swim in the sea at Perros-Guirec. The water is generally clear and of good quality for bathing. However, the water temperature is typical of the English Channel/Atlantic, meaning it can be quite cool, even in summer, usually ranging from 15°C to 18°C (59°F to 64°F). Some may prefer a wetsuit for longer swims.

When is the best time of year to visit Perros-Guirec for beaches?

The best time for a beach holiday in Perros-Guirec is typically from June to September when the weather is warmest and sunniest. July and August are peak months with the most amenities open and the warmest sea temperatures, though it can also be more crowded. Spring (May) and early autumn (September) can also be pleasant with fewer crowds.

Is it easy to find accommodation near the beaches in Perros-Guirec?

Yes, there is a good range of accommodation near the beaches in Perros-Guirec, including hotels, apartments, campsites, and holiday homes. Areas around Plage de Trestraou, Plage de Trestrignel, and Ploumanac'h are popular for their proximity to the sea. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for the summer months.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Trestraou Beach

Plage de Trestrignel

Are the beaches in Perros-Guirec suitable for families with children?

Yes, many beaches in Perros-Guirec are very family-friendly. Plage de Trestraou is particularly popular with families due to its fine sand, calm waters, kids' club in summer, and nearby amenities. Plage de Trestrignel is also a good option, known for being sheltered. Plage de Saint-Guirec also has facilities like a children's club and toilets.

Trestraou Beach

Plage de Trestrignel

What is the Pink Granite Coast and how does it relate to the beaches?

The Côte de Granit Rose (Pink Granite Coast) is a famous stretch of coastline in Brittany, characterized by its unusual pink-hued granite rock formations sculpted by erosion. Perros-Guirec is a major town on this coast, and its beaches, like Plage de Saint-Guirec in Ploumanac'h, are set against these stunning and unique geological features, offering spectacular scenery.

La Plage Saint Guirec

How do the tides affect the beaches in Perros-Guirec?

Tides have a significant impact on the beaches in Perros-Guirec, as in much of Brittany. At low tide, the beaches become much more expansive, revealing large areas for walking, playing, and rock pooling. At high tide, the water comes much further up the beach, reducing its size. It's important to check tide times, as some beaches like Trestrignel might have very little sand at high tide.

Plage de Trestrignel

People Also Ask

Are dogs allowed on Perros-Guirec beaches?

Dog access on Perros-Guirec beaches varies. Generally, many main beaches have restrictions during peak tourist season (e.g., from mid-June to mid-September, often between 10 am and 7 pm). Some sources indicate that dogs might be allowed on certain parts of beaches outside supervised areas or on specific, less central beaches like Arcades beach (pebbles). It is always best to check local signage or the town hall's official website for the most current regulations for specific beaches, as rules can change.

Plage des Arcades

What kind of activities can you do at the beaches in Perros-Guirec besides swimming?

Besides swimming, Perros-Guirec beaches offer many activities such as sunbathing, sandcastle building, and beachcombing. Watersports like kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and surfing (especially at Trestraou) are popular. The GR34 coastal path offers stunning walks along the coastline. Boat trips to the Sept-Îles bird sanctuary also depart from near Trestraou.

Trestraou Beach

Which beach is better in Perros-Guirec: Trestraou or Trestrignel?

It depends on your preferences. Trestraou is larger, more bustling, south-facing (described as the sunniest by one source), with more amenities like a casino, shops, restaurants, and a watersports center, making it lively. Trestrignel is generally considered quieter, more intimate, and perhaps more picturesque with its elegant villas, often preferred by those seeking a more secluded and calm atmosphere.

Trestraou Beach

Plage de Trestrignel

What is the atmosphere like at Perros-Guirec beaches? Is it very touristy?

The atmosphere varies. Trestraou beach, being the main town beach, can be quite lively and popular, especially in July and August, with a classic seaside resort feel. Trestrignel and smaller coves offer a more tranquil atmosphere. Perros-Guirec is a popular tourist destination, and its population can increase significantly in summer, but it aims to retain its Breton charm.

Trestraou Beach

Plage de Trestrignel

Are there any hidden gem beaches or quieter alternatives to the main beaches in Perros-Guirec?

While Trestraou and Trestrignel are the most famous, exploring the coastal path (GR34) can lead you to smaller, more secluded coves and beaches, particularly towards Ploumanac'h or further along the Pink Granite Coast. The area around Île Renote in nearby Trégastel also has charming, smaller sandy spots nestled among the pink granite rocks. Some sources mention the right part of Trestraou beach as being more wild.

Trestraou Beach

Plage de Trestrignel

Plage Ile Renote

How do you get to the beaches in Perros-Guirec and is parking available?

The main beaches like Trestraou and Trestrignel are accessible from the town center. Trestraou has public parking nearby, which may be fee-paying during peak season. Trestrignel also has parking. For beaches along the GR34 or in Ploumanac'h (like Saint-Guirec), walking is common, with parking areas near popular spots, though these can get busy. Local buses also serve some beach areas.

Trestraou Beach

Plage de Trestrignel

La Plage Saint Guirec

Is Perros-Guirec more for a relaxing beach holiday or an adventurous one?

Perros-Guirec caters to both. For relaxation, there are beautiful sandy beaches like Trestrignel, scenic coastal walks, and thalassotherapy centers. For adventure, the GR34 coastal trail offers excellent hiking, and Trestraou beach is a hub for watersports including surfing, kayaking, and sailing. Boat trips to the Sept-Îles also offer an adventurous experience.

Plage de Trestrignel

Trestraou Beach