Saint-Lunaire Beaches

Overview

Nestled on Brittany's magnificent Emerald Coast, Saint-Lunaire offers a classic seaside escape with a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. It stands as a quieter alternative to the glamour of nearby Dinard, appealing to those who prefer charming village life over a bustling resort town. The coastline here is profoundly shaped by some of the most dramatic tides in Europe, which transform the landscape daily. At low tide, vast expanses of sand are revealed, perfect for exploring, while high tide brings the sea close to the promenade, offering a completely different, but equally beautiful, coastal scene.

The town's beaches each have a distinct character, catering to every type of visitor. The heart of the action is the expansive Grande Plage de St Lunaire, a convenient and sheltered hub for families and sunbathers. For more active pursuits, Plage de Longchamp is the undisputed local favorite for surfing and sand yachting. A short journey opens up even more choice, from the chic, tent-lined Plage de l'Ecluse in neighboring Dinard to the immense and iconic Grande Plage du Sillon in the historic walled city of Saint-Malo, a truly essential Emerald Coast experience.

Beyond these popular spots, the coastline around Saint-Lunaire is dotted with smaller, more intimate coves like Plage de la Fourberie, which tend to be quieter. These gems offer a more secluded setting for a peaceful day by the water. Whether you seek lively beach days, water sports, or quiet relaxation, Saint-Lunaire provides a perfect base. For a comprehensive look at all the sandy stretches waiting to be discovered, be sure to explore our longer list of the area's best beaches.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is the sea water warm enough for swimming in Saint-Lunaire?

The sea in Saint-Lunaire is part of the English Channel and is known for being brisk. In the peak summer months of July and August, the water temperature averages around 17-18°C (63-64°F), which many find refreshing for a quick dip. On particularly warm and sunny days, it can sometimes climb towards 20°C (68°F). Outside of summer, swimming is generally reserved for the very brave or those wearing wetsuits.

Which beach in Saint-Lunaire is best for families with young children?

The Grande Plage is often considered the most family-friendly beach. It's a large, sandy beach located centrally in the town, sheltered from strong winds. It features a gentle slope into the water, a seasonal kids' club, and is supervised by lifeguards in the summer. Its proximity to town amenities like cafes and toilets also makes it convenient for families.

Grande Plage de St Lunaire

How do the beaches in Saint-Lunaire compare to Saint-Briac or Dinard?

Saint-Lunaire is often seen as a quieter, more family-oriented alternative to the elegant, bustling resort of Dinard. While Dinard has a more prominent town feel with its famous market and promenade, Saint-Lunaire offers a more relaxed, village-like atmosphere. Saint-Briac-sur-Mer is similar in its charm and family appeal to Saint-Lunaire, with beautiful beaches and a focus on coastal nature. The choice often comes down to a preference for a slightly more tranquil setting (Saint-Lunaire/Saint-Briac) versus a more vibrant town atmosphere (Dinard).

Do you have to pay attention to the tides at Saint-Lunaire's beaches?

Yes, absolutely. The Emerald Coast experiences some of the most dramatic tidal ranges in Europe. At low tide, the sandy beaches expand enormously, revealing rock pools and enabling walks between some coves. However, at high tide, the water can cover almost the entire beach area, especially during spring tides. It's crucial to check the tide times before heading out to avoid being cut off and to know when the best time for sunbathing or swimming will be.

Are there hotels with a direct sea view over the beaches?

Yes, Saint-Lunaire has several accommodation options with direct sea views. The most prominent is the Grand Hôtel, which sits right on the promenade of the Grande Plage. Additionally, you can find various holiday apartments and some guesthouses, particularly along the Grande Plage and near the Pointe du Décollé, that offer rooms with beautiful views of the sea.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Grande Plage de St Lunaire

Which is the best beach for surfing in Saint-Lunaire?

Plage de Longchamp is the go-to beach for surfing and other water sports in Saint-Lunaire. It is the most exposed to the Atlantic swell, providing more consistent waves than the other, more sheltered beaches. You'll find a couple of surf schools located right at the beach, offering lessons and equipment rental for all levels.

Plage de Longchamp

Is it easy to find parking near the beaches in Saint-Lunaire?

Parking can be challenging, especially during the peak summer season in July and August. The Grande Plage has some free parking near the nautical center, but it fills up quickly. For other beaches like Plage de la Fourberie, on-street parking is very limited. It is advisable to arrive early in the day or to walk from your accommodation if possible. Some larger, grassy parking areas are available for day use, but may require a short walk to the beach.

Grande Plage de St Lunaire

Plage de la Fourberie

Are there coastal walks directly from the beaches?

Yes, Saint-Lunaire is located directly on the GR34 coastal path, also known as the 'Sentier des Douaniers' (Customs Officers' Path). You can easily access this famous hiking trail from any of the beaches. A popular walk is from the Grande Plage towards the Pointe du Décollé for stunning panoramic views, or heading west from Plage de Longchamp towards Saint-Briac.

Plage de Longchamp

People Also Ask

Are dogs allowed on the beaches in Saint-Lunaire?

Dog access to the main beaches is restricted during the high season. Typically, from mid-June to mid-September, dogs are not permitted on the supervised beaches during the day. It's always best to check the signs at the beach entrance for the most current regulations and specific times, as rules can vary slightly by beach.

What is the best time of year for a beach holiday in Saint-Lunaire?

The best time for a traditional beach holiday is from late June to early September. During these months, you'll experience the warmest weather and water temperatures, and all beach facilities, including lifeguard services and kids' clubs, are operational. May, June, and September are also lovely times to visit with fewer crowds and pleasant weather for coastal walks, though the sea will be colder.

Are there restaurants and cafes right on the beach?

Yes, you can find dining options with direct beach access or sea views. The Grande Plage is bordered by a promenade with several restaurants, creperies, and bars. Plage de Longchamp also has a couple of establishments where you can get food and drinks. These are perfect for having lunch with a view or enjoying a drink while watching the sunset.

Plage de Longchamp

Can you walk between the different beaches of Saint-Lunaire?

At low tide, it is possible to walk between some of the beaches. For instance, you can walk along the sand from Plage de la Fourberie to Plage de la Fosse aux Vaults. The GR34 coastal path also connects all the beaches via scenic clifftop trails, offering spectacular views regardless of the tide level.

Plage de la Fourberie

Are there any quieter, more hidden beaches in Saint-Lunaire?

While Saint-Lunaire's four main beaches are well-known, Plage de la Fosse aux Vaults and Plage de la Fourberie tend to be slightly quieter than the Grande Plage and Longchamp. They are smaller coves that feel more intimate. For a truly 'hidden gem' feel, exploring the small, unnamed coves along the GR34 path between the main beaches at low tide can be very rewarding.

Plage de la Fourberie

What is the Pointe du Décollé and is it worth visiting?

The Pointe du Décollé is a rocky headland that separates the Grande Plage from Plage de Longchamp. It is absolutely worth visiting for its breathtaking panoramic views of the Emerald Coast, from Cap Fréhel to the west to Saint-Malo to the east. A walking path leads to the end of the point, making it a perfect spot for a scenic stroll and for watching the sunset.

Plage de Longchamp

Is Saint-Lunaire a good destination for a holiday based just around the beach?

Saint-Lunaire is an excellent destination for a beach-focused holiday, especially for families or those seeking a relaxed coastal escape. With four distinct sandy beaches, opportunities for water sports, scenic coastal walks on the GR34, and a charming town center with cafes and restaurants, you can easily spend a full holiday enjoying the seaside atmosphere. Its location also makes it a great base for exploring other parts of the Emerald Coast if you wish.