Normandy, France

Pontorson Beaches

Overview

While Pontorson is an inland town, it serves as a perfect and affordable base for exploring the magnificent coastline of Normandy. The town's prime location allows for easy car trips to the unique beaches lining the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel. Visitors should know that the beaches here are defined by Europe's most dramatic tides, which retreat to reveal immense stretches of sand, offering a different kind of coastal experience than a typical resort town.

From Pontorson, a diverse range of seaside adventures awaits. For an unforgettable, picture-perfect view of the famous abbey, head to Plage de Dragey-Ronthon. If a classic family day on a vast sandy shore is what you seek, Plage de Jullouville is the ideal resort beach. For a grander day trip, the iconic Grande Plage du Sillon in the historic city of Saint-Malo is an unmissable stop. Many visitors also enjoy the expansive sands of Carolles Plage, perfect for long walks at low tide.

The beaches near Pontorson offer more than just swimming and sunbathing; they provide a unique natural spectacle. The vast tidal flats exposed at low tide are a playground for photographers, walkers, and those trying 'pêche à pied' (shore fishing), a popular local pastime. Whether you seek iconic views or sprawling sands, the coastline has a spot for you. For a complete guide to all the coastal gems in the area, be sure to explore our longer list of top beaches.

FAQ

People Also Ask

What is the closest sandy beach to Pontorson?

The nearest sandy beaches to Pontorson are about a 30-40 minute drive away, located along the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel. Popular choices include Carolles Plage and the beach at Saint-Jean-le-Thomas, both offering vast stretches of sand, particularly at low tide.

Can you actually swim in the sea near Mont Saint-Michel?

Swimming directly around Mont Saint-Michel is extremely dangerous and not recommended. The bay experiences the highest tides in Europe, creating powerful currents and areas of quicksand. For safe swimming, you should visit designated beaches further along the coast, such as Jullouville or Carolles.

Is Pontorson a good base for a beach holiday?

Pontorson is an excellent, and often more affordable, base for exploring the coastline of Normandy and Brittany by car. However, it is an inland town, not a traditional beach resort. It is best suited for travelers who want to combine a visit to Mont Saint-Michel with various day trips to the coast, rather than for those seeking a holiday with direct beach access.

What are the tides like and should I be worried about quicksand?

The tides in the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel are dramatic and can rise very quickly, sometimes described as moving as fast as a galloping horse. It is essential to check tide times before walking on the sand. Quicksand ('sables mouvants') is a real danger in the bay. To experience the tidal flats safely, you must go with a certified guide; guided 'bay crossing' tours are a very popular and safe option.

What's the easiest way to get to the beaches from Pontorson?

By far the easiest and most practical way to reach the beaches from Pontorson is by car. A car provides the flexibility needed to explore the various coastal towns and beaches in the region. Public transport options to the beaches are generally limited and not very direct.

For a beach trip, is it better to stay in Pontorson or a town like Granville?

This depends on your priority. Stay in Pontorson if your main goal is visiting Mont Saint-Michel and you want a central, budget-friendly base for exploring the wider region by car. Choose a coastal town like Granville if you want a classic seaside holiday where you can walk to the beach, enjoy seaside amenities, and have more of a resort atmosphere.

Are the beaches near Pontorson suitable for families with children?

Yes, many beaches within driving distance are well-suited for families. The beaches at Jullouville and Carolles, for example, offer huge expanses of flat sand at low tide, which are perfect for building sandcastles and paddling in shallow tidal pools. As always in this bay, parents must remain vigilant about the fast-incoming tide.

How far are the D-Day landing beaches from Pontorson?

The D-Day landing beaches, such as Omaha and Utah Beach, are located much further east in Normandy. The drive from Pontorson takes approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on which specific beach you plan to visit. It is a long but feasible day trip.

What do locals do at the beach in this part of Normandy?

A very popular local activity is 'pêche à pied', or shore fishing. At low tide, you will often see residents walking the tidal flats to gather shellfish like cockles and clams. Long walks across the immense sandy bay and enjoying the dramatic coastal scenery are also common pastimes.

Is it better to visit the beaches at high tide or low tide?

It depends entirely on your plans. High tide is essential for swimming, as the water can recede for miles. Low tide is perfect for long walks, exploring the vast sandbanks, discovering tidal pools, and shore fishing ('pêche à pied'). Always consult a tide schedule before your visit to time it right.

Are there any quieter, 'hidden gem' beaches that locals recommend?

For a less crowded experience with a spectacular view of Mont Saint-Michel from its cliffs, the beach at Champeaux is often recommended. It is sometimes referred to as being near the 'most beautiful kilometer in France'. The sheer size of Carolles beach also means that you can usually find a quiet spot if you are willing to walk a bit from the main access points.

Beaches for Every Taste

Local gems for everyone

Explore More Local Beaches

The fastest way to find the best Pontorson Beaches

Pontorson Beaches Map

Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Pontorson: Weather Today

📅 Saturday, July 26, 2025
Today might not be the best beach day. Expect mostly cloudy skies. The wind will be moderate. The sea temperature is a pleasant 21.7 °C, ideal for a swim. The maximum air temperature will be 21.7 °C. The UV index will reach 5.5, so sun protection isn't essential today.
🌬️

Air

Low / High13.8°C/21.7°C
Feels Like (High)22.4°C
🌊

Sea

Sea Temperature21.7 °C
Wave Height
🌧️

Rain

Rain Chance15%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
🌞

Sun

Sunrise / Sunset06:33/21:52
Sunshine Hours3.7 hrs
UV Index5.5
Cloud Cover82%
💨

Wind

Speed16.1 km/h
Gusts27 km/h
DirectionW

More Beaches Nearby

Explore More

France
France Beaches
Normandy
Normandy Beaches