Saint-Pierre-Quiberon Beaches

Overview

Saint-Pierre-Quiberon offers a remarkable tale of two coastlines on one peninsula. Visitors often wonder about the difference between its shores, and the answer is simple: it provides two distinct beach experiences. To the west, the famous Côte Sauvage presents a rugged, untamed landscape of dramatic cliffs and powerful waves, perfect for breathtaking walks. To the east, the sheltered Bay of Quiberon reveals calm, sandy beaches ideal for swimming and relaxing family days by the sea.

Among the highlights, you'll find a beach for every mood. On the calm bay side, Plage de Keraude serves as the town's welcoming and convenient main beach, ideal for families. For those seeking action, the vast Penthièvre Beach at the peninsula's entrance is a hub for surfing and other water sports. Crossing over to the wild coast, the Beach of Port Blanc is a must-see, famous for its magnificent natural stone arch that creates a truly iconic photo opportunity.

Beyond the main peninsula, an unforgettable day trip awaits at Les Grands Sables on the nearby island of Belle-Île. The wild coast also hides other dramatic coves like Port Bara, which is a popular spot for experienced surfers. These are just a few of the treasures you'll find here. For more hidden gems and a complete guide to every sandy stretch, be sure to explore our full list of the area's best beaches.

Top Beaches

FAQ

What's the difference between the beaches on the Côte Sauvage (wild coast) and the bay side of Saint-Pierre-Quiberon?

Saint-Pierre-Quiberon offers two distinct coastal experiences. The west-facing Côte Sauvage (wild coast) features rugged cliffs, powerful waves, and dramatic scenery with spots like Port Bara and Port Blanc. Swimming is often prohibited here due to strong currents, making it ideal for experienced surfers and hikers exploring the coastal path. The eastern side, facing Quiberon Bay, has calmer, sheltered, sandy beaches like Keraude and Kerhostin. These are perfect for families, swimming, and water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.

Plage Port Bara

Beach of Port Blanc

Plage de Keraude

Is Saint-Pierre-Quiberon good for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Saint-Pierre-Quiberon is very family-friendly, especially the beaches on the bay side. Keraude Beach, located near the town center and Port of Orange, is supervised in July and August and offers calm waters for swimming. Other beaches like Kerhostin and Poul Perneau are also sheltered and ideal for children. Many beaches have nearby amenities like toilets, cafes, and beach clubs, such as the Club des Dauphins at Kermahé beach, which organizes activities for kids.

Plage de Keraude

Can you swim in the sea at Saint-Pierre-Quiberon and what is the water like?

Yes, you can swim at many beaches, particularly on the sheltered bay side where the water is calmer. The beaches of the Côte Sauvage are generally not safe for swimming due to powerful waves and currents. The water temperature is typical for Brittany, reaching its warmest in July and August, around 18-21°C (64-70°F). While refreshing, it's not Mediterranean-warm, so some may prefer a wetsuit, especially outside of peak summer.

Which are the best beaches for surfing in Saint-Pierre-Quiberon?

The best surfing spots are on the Côte Sauvage. For experienced surfers, Port Blanc, Port Bara, and Port Rhu offer powerful, technical waves. For beginners and intermediate surfers, Penthièvre beach is the most suitable spot. It's a beach-break with more manageable waves and several surf schools are located there offering lessons and equipment rental.

Are there hotels with direct beach access in Saint-Pierre-Quiberon?

While there are not many large hotels built directly on the sand, there are numerous accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses ('chambres d'hôtes'), and vacation rentals, that are just a very short walk from the beach. For example, properties around Port d'Orange are steps from Keraude beach, and there are several municipal campsites with direct access to beaches like Le Rohu.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Plage de Keraude

Plage du Rohu

Do you need a car to get to the beaches in Saint-Pierre-Quiberon?

While a car offers the most flexibility, it's not strictly necessary. The town's main beach, Keraude, is easily accessible on foot from the center. There are also well-maintained cycle paths, like the 'Voie Verte', which are perfect for reaching many beaches. In summer, the 'Tire-Bouchon' tourist train runs along the peninsula, stopping at Penthièvre, and a free mini-bus service sometimes operates, serving beaches like Kervillen. However, for exploring the more remote coves of the Côte Sauvage, a car is more convenient.

Plage de Keraude

Penthièvre Beach

Is it better to stay in Saint-Pierre-Quiberon or Quiberon for beaches?

Both offer excellent but different beach experiences. Saint-Pierre-Quiberon is generally quieter and offers a mix of wild, rugged coastline for surfing and hiking, alongside calm, family-friendly bay beaches. Quiberon town is larger and livelier, with its famous Grande Plage right in the heart of the resort, offering many shops and restaurants. Your choice depends on your preferred holiday vibe: Saint-Pierre for a more nature-focused, tranquil base, and Quiberon for a bustling seaside resort atmosphere.

What is the best time of year to visit the beaches?

The best time for a classic beach holiday with swimming and sunbathing is from June to September, with July and August being the warmest and busiest months. Spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) are also excellent times to visit for hiking the coastal paths, surfing, and enjoying the beaches with fewer crowds, though the water will be cooler.

People Also Ask

Are there restaurants and cafes directly on the beaches?

While not directly on the sand, many beaches have restaurants, cafes, and bars very close by. Keraude beach, near the Port of Orange, has a promenade with several establishments offering sea views. The small port of Portivy on the Côte Sauvage also has a few charming bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a meal with a view after a coastal walk.

Plage de Keraude

How important are the tides for visiting the beaches?

The tides are very important and dramatically change the beach landscape. At low tide, vast expanses of sand and rock pools are exposed, which is perfect for shellfish gathering ('pêche à pied') and for children to play. Some smaller coves, like Castéro beach, can be completely covered at high tide, so it's essential to check the tide times before you go, especially if you plan to walk along the coast or settle in a small cove.

Plage du Castero

Are there any quieter, hidden gem beaches away from the crowds?

Yes, to find quieter spots, explore the smaller coves (or 'criques') along the bay side between the main beaches. Petit Rohu beach, located south of the main town and bordered by campsites, is often less crowded than the central beaches. On the wild coast, exploring the coastal path can lead you to less accessible but stunning coves, though these are not for swimming. Generally, the further you walk or cycle from the main car parks, the more peace you will find.

Plage du Rohu

Is it easy to find parking near the beaches in summer?

Parking can be very difficult in July and August, especially near popular beaches like Keraude and Penthièvre. It's recommended to arrive early in the day to secure a spot. Many parking areas are small. Using bicycles or the summer bus services is a great alternative to avoid parking stress. For some beaches, you may need to park in the village and walk.

Plage de Keraude

Penthièvre Beach