Can you actually swim at the beaches in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer?
Yes, you can swim at the beaches in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. The town has several kilometers of sandy beaches suitable for swimming. Some beaches, like Plage des Arènes near the town center, are protected by dikes, making the water calmer. The water is generally shallow near the shore, which is great for families. For the most comfortable swimming, the best months are typically July, August, and September when the sea temperature is warmest.
What's the best time of year to visit for a beach holiday?
For a classic beach holiday with plenty of sun and warm sea temperatures, the best time to visit is from June to August. However, this is also the busiest period. If you prefer pleasant weather with fewer crowds, consider visiting in May or September. The winter months are very quiet, with many businesses closed, and the water is too cold for swimming.
Are the beaches in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer good for families?
Yes, Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is considered a family-friendly destination. The beaches close to the town center, such as Plage des Arènes and the beginning of Plage Est, are particularly suitable for families as they are supervised in season and have amenities like toilets and showers. The water is often shallow, and dikes help to keep the waves small.
I'm looking for a wild, natural beach experience. Where should I go?
For a more wild and natural beach experience, head to Plage Est (East Beach). As you move further away from the town center, past the thalassotherapy center and the sea dike, the beach becomes a vast, protected expanse of sand and dunes within the Camargue National Reserve. This area is much less crowded and offers a feeling of being at the world's end. Be sure to bring your own water and sun protection as there are no facilities.
Can I ride horses on the beach in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer?
Yes, horseback riding on the beach is one of the most iconic activities in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. Numerous local ranches (manades) offer guided rides for various skill levels, from beginners to experienced riders. These excursions take you through the unique Camargue landscape of marshes and onto the expansive sandy beaches, often at sunrise or sunset.
Are there private beaches with sunbeds and restaurants?
Yes, there are several private beach clubs in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, primarily located on the beaches near the town. These establishments, often called 'plages privées', offer sunbed and parasol rentals, and have restaurants and bars where you can have a meal or a drink with your feet in the sand. Some popular options include La Playa, Boho Beach, and Farniente Plage.
How do the beaches here compare to those at Le Grau-du-Roi or La Grande-Motte?
The beaches of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer are known for their wild, natural setting within the Camargue Regional Nature Park, offering vast, untamed landscapes, especially on Plage Est. In contrast, Le Grau-du-Roi and La Grande-Motte are larger, more developed seaside resorts with long, wide sandy beaches and more extensive tourist infrastructure right along the seafront. While all have beautiful sandy beaches, Saintes-Maries offers a unique blend of beach holiday and nature escape.
Should I be worried about mosquitoes on the beaches?
Mosquitoes are a reality in the Camargue, especially during the warmer months from late spring to early autumn, due to the surrounding marshes. While they may be less prevalent directly on the windy coastline during the day, they can be more noticeable in the evenings and in areas closer to the lagoons behind the dunes. It is highly recommended to bring and use insect repellent, particularly during dawn and dusk.
Are dogs allowed on the beaches?
Yes, but with restrictions. Dogs are generally allowed on a leash on the wildest part of Plage Est (East Beach), specifically after the sea dike. They are typically not permitted on the supervised, central town beaches during the main tourist season. It's always best to check the local signage for the most current regulations.
Is there a nudist beach in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer?
Yes, there is a well-known area for naturism on Plage Est (East Beach). The designated nudist section is located about one kilometer past the start of the sea dike, in the more wild and secluded part of the beach that stretches towards Beauduc. The area is unofficial but widely tolerated.
How do I get to the wilder beaches if I don't have a car?
The wildest parts of Plage Est are not directly accessible by car. From the town center, you can walk or cycle along the sea dike ('Digue à la Mer') which runs east along the coast. This path will take you to the more remote and quiet stretches of sand. The further you go, the wilder it becomes. The dike itself is a popular route for cycling and walking.
What is the vibe of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer? Is it a party town?
Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer has a relaxed, bohemian, and family-friendly vibe deeply connected to its Camargue traditions. It is not known as a major party destination with large nightclubs. The atmosphere is lively in the summer with bustling cafes, restaurants, and street music, but it's more about enjoying the natural surroundings, local culture, and evenings out rather than intense nightlife.
