Wimereux Beaches

Overview

Wimereux offers a classic seaside experience on the beautiful Opal Coast of France. Known for its restful, family-friendly atmosphere, the town is distinguished by the elegant Belle Époque villas that line its waterfront promenade. Visitors will find the main beach is a charming mix of pebbles and sand. At low tide, a vast sandy expanse is revealed, creating a perfect playground for beach activities and strolls.

The coastline provides a wonderful variety of beaches to explore. The town's main beach, Plage de Wimereux, is the heart of the resort, ideal for a walk and admiring the architecture. For those seeking more action, Plage de Wissant is a premier destination for kitesurfing and sand yachting. Nearby, the stunning Plage du Cran d'Escalles delivers dramatic scenery at the foot of the majestic Cap Blanc-Nez cliffs. Just north of town, the wilder beach at Pointe aux Oies offers a more natural landscape of dunes and scenic views.

The beach experience in Wimereux changes significantly with the tides. Low tide uncovers wide stretches of sand and rock pools, while high tide brings the sea right up to the promenade wall, offering spectacular views. This ever-changing scenery is a key part of the town's appeal. For more options, from bustling town beaches to quiet natural coves, be sure to browse our complete guide to the beaches in the area.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is the main beach in Wimereux sandy or pebbly?

The main beach in Wimereux is a mix of fine sand and pebbles. At low tide, vast stretches of sand are exposed, perfect for beach activities, while other areas have more pebbles, which children often enjoy collecting.

Plage de Wimereux

Can you swim in the sea at Wimereux and is it safe?

Yes, you can swim in the sea at Wimereux. The main beach is supervised by lifeguards during the summer months of July and August. A unique feature is a natural seawater pool that forms at low tide, providing a safer swimming area, especially for families. However, the water can be quite cool, with summer temperatures reaching around 18-20°C, and waves can sometimes be strong.

Plage de Wimereux

What is the best time of year to visit Wimereux for a beach holiday?

The best time for a beach holiday in Wimereux is from late spring to early autumn, particularly July and August. During these summer months, the weather is warmest, all beach facilities are open, and the town is at its most lively. For a quieter visit with pleasant weather, consider visiting in June or September.

Is Wimereux a good destination for a family beach holiday?

Wimereux is considered an ideal destination for families. The beach is supervised in the summer, and the natural seawater pool at low tide offers a safe spot for children to swim. The town has a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with a promenade perfect for walks, numerous cafes, and activities like kite-flying and building sandcastles.

Plage de Wimereux

Is it better to stay right on the seafront or in the town?

Staying on the seafront offers immediate beach access and stunning sea views, with many apartments and hotels located directly on the promenade. Staying a few streets back in the town center is often just a short 2-5 minute walk to the beach and places you closer to the main shopping street with its bakeries, butchers, and boutiques.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

How does Wimereux compare to Le Touquet?

Wimereux and Le Touquet are both popular resorts on the Opal Coast, but they offer different atmospheres. Wimereux is generally considered more tranquil, authentic, and family-oriented, known for its preserved Belle Époque charm. Le Touquet is often described as more elegant, bustling, and glamorous, with a wider variety of high-end shops and a more animated nightlife.

Are dogs allowed on the beaches in Wimereux?

On the main central beach, dogs are generally not allowed during the peak season. However, they are often tolerated on a leash at the extremities of the main beach. For unrestricted access, the nearby Pointe aux Oies beach is dog-friendly, though swimming there is not recommended due to strong currents.

What are the famous blue and white beach huts in Wimereux?

The charming blue and white beach huts are a signature feature of the Wimereux promenade. These privately owned cabins add to the resort's timeless charm. Recently, the town has made a few of them available for daily or weekly rental, allowing visitors to store their belongings and have a private space on the beach.

People Also Ask

What happens at the beach during high tide versus low tide?

The beach experience in Wimereux changes dramatically with the tides. At low tide, a vast expanse of sand and rock pools is revealed, perfect for walking, sand yachting, and exploring. At high tide, the sea comes right up to the seawall promenade, making the beach itself inaccessible but offering spectacular views of the waves, especially on windy days.

Are there good places to eat right on the beach?

Yes, the promenade (la digue) that runs along the length of the beach is lined with a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars. You can find everything from casual spots for a waffle or ice cream to fine dining restaurants, many with terraces offering direct sea views.

Is it easy to find parking near the beach in Wimereux?

There are several free and paid parking options near the town center and the beach. However, during the peak summer months, especially on weekends and holidays, parking can be limited and it is advisable to arrive early to find a spot.

What water sports can you do at Wimereux beach?

Wimereux is a popular spot for various water sports. The conditions are particularly good for kitesurfing, windsurfing, and sand yachting. You can also go sailing, stand-up paddleboarding, and sea-kayaking, with a nautical club located right on the seafront offering lessons and rentals.

Plage de Wimereux

Are there quieter, more natural beaches near Wimereux?

Yes, just to the north of the main town beach, you can find the wilder beach at Pointe aux Oies, which is part of the Dunes de la Slack nature reserve. This area offers a more natural landscape of dunes and scenic views towards Ambleteuse and its fort, perfect for hiking and nature lovers.

Plage dunes de la Slack

Can you see England from the beach in Wimereux?

On very clear days, it is possible to see the white cliffs of Dover across the English Channel from Wimereux and the surrounding coastline, especially from higher points like the nearby cliffs of Cap Gris-Nez and Cap Blanc-Nez.

Plage de Wimereux

Beach Cap Blanc-Nez

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