“To go out with the setting sun on an empty beach is to truly embrace your solitude.” – Jeanne Moreau
France may be world-famous for the French Riviera, but if you’re based in or visiting the French capital, you don’t have to travel all the way to the Mediterranean coast to feel the sand between your toes. Whether you’re after a quick day trip, a splash in calm waters, or a weekend lounging on sandy shores, there are plenty of beach towns and scenic escapes just a short train ride or drive from Paris.
Even better, Paris Plages has transformed the idea of the urban beach, offering up artificial oases where Parisians can sip rosé under palm trees, soak up the sun, and even kayak—right in the heart of the city. From these innovative riverside retreats to authentic stretches of coast like Deauville Beach and Le Touquet, there’s something for every kind of beach lover within reach.
In this 3-part guide, we’ll explore the best beaches near Paris to visit in 2025, ideal for travelers who want sun, sand, water sports, and unforgettable views—all without straying far from the Eiffel Tower.
Urban Escapes and Seaside Elegance
Paris Plages: The Urban Beach Experience
Every summer, the heart of the French capital transforms into a coastal retreat with the arrival of Paris Plages. This innovative initiative turns the banks of the Seine River and the Bassin de la Villette into vibrant artificial beaches, complete with palm trees, lounge chairs, and a plethora of water sports activities.
In 2025, Paris Plages continues to captivate both locals and tourists. The event spans several iconic locations:
- Parc Rives de Seine: Stretching along both the Right and Left Banks, this area offers a scenic promenade adorned with palm trees and beach chairs, providing a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the view of the Eiffel Tower.
- Bassin de la Villette: Located in the 19th arrondissement, this site is a hub for water sports, including kayaking and paddleboarding. The presence of outdoor pools and refreshment stands ensures a delightful experience for visitors of all ages.
- Canal Saint-Martin: This picturesque canal becomes a lively spot during the summer months, featuring cultural events, live music, and food stalls.
The Paris Plages initiative not only offers a unique beach experience within the city but also promotes environmental sustainability by replacing traditional sand with eco-friendly materials.
Deauville Beach: The Riviera of the North
Just a two-hour direct train ride from Gare du Nord, Deauville Beach stands as one of the best beaches near Paris. Often referred to as the “Parisian Riviera,” Deauville boasts sandy beaches, elegant boardwalks, and a rich cultural scene.
Key highlights of Deauville Beach include:
- Promenade des Planches: This iconic boardwalk, lined with beach huts named after Hollywood stars, offers a nostalgic charm reminiscent of the 1920s.
- Water Sports: The beach provides ample opportunities for water sports, including sailing and windsurfing, catering to both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts.
- Cultural Events: Deauville hosts numerous events throughout the year, such as the American Film Festival and horse racing events, adding to its allure as a seaside resort.
The town’s proximity to Paris makes it an ideal day trip destination, allowing visitors to enjoy natural beauty, fresh sea air, and a luxurious experience on the Atlantic coast without venturing too far.
Northern Getaways – Classic Seaside Towns Close to Paris
While Paris Plages offers the novelty of sunbathing beside the Seine River, nothing beats a salty breeze and sandy beaches that stretch to the horizon. For those willing to travel just a bit beyond the city limits, northern France is home to several beach towns that combine natural beauty, charming architecture, and seaside fun—all within a short distance from the French capital.
Here are two of the most beloved seaside resorts you can easily visit in a day or weekend trip from Paris in 2025.
Le Touquet: The Belle Époque Gem of the Opal Coast
Nicknamed “Paris-Plage” (yes, really), Le Touquet is perhaps the most elegant and fashionable beach escape for Parisians. This coastal jewel on the Opal Coast is a perfect place to blend laid-back beach days with stylish shopping, art galleries, and luxury hotels. A direct train from Paris takes just over 2.5 hours.
Highlights of Le Touquet:
- Sandy Beaches: Wide, flat, and clean, Le Touquet’s beaches are ideal for long walks, sandcastle building, and lounging under striped umbrellas. It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in northern France.
- Water Sports: A haven for windsurfing, land sailing, and kitesurfing, Le Touquet is a great place for those craving activity. There are also beach clubs offering lessons and rentals during the summer months.
- Low Tide Adventures: At low tide, the beach expands dramatically, revealing tidal pools and wide-open stretches that make for excellent photography and exploration.
- Beach Resorts and Town Vibes: The town center boasts palm trees, art deco villas, chic boutiques, and plenty of cafes serving local seafood and ice cream. Whether you want to stroll the boardwalk or sip wine by the sea, Le Touquet blends the best of beach and city charm.
Dieppe Beach: A Touch of History Meets Seaside Simplicity
Closer than Le Touquet and slightly more laid-back, Dieppe Beach is another excellent choice for a beach getaway from Paris. Just over two hours by train from Gare Saint-Lazare, this Normandy gem is known for its pebbled beaches, rich history, and proximity to important WWII sites.
Here’s what to love about Dieppe:
- Seaside Resort Feel: Though not as sandy as Deauville or Le Touquet, Dieppe’s shoreline offers fresh sea air, family-friendly promenades, and a wide selection of bistros and local markets.
- Calm Waters: The water temperature here is chillier than the Mediterranean coast, but it’s great for a bracing swim or a quick dip on hot summer days.
- Les Cerfs-Volants: Every two years, Dieppe hosts the International Kite Festival—a visual spectacle that fills the sky with color. It’s one of the main attractions during the warmer months.
- Historical Landmarks: Visit the 15th-century castle perched above the beach or learn about Dieppe’s significant role during the D-Day invasion. For history buffs, it’s more than just sun and surf.
💡 Pro tip: Plan your visit around low tide to make the most of beach walks and shoreline activities.
These northern beaches offer the perfect balance between relaxation, activity, and charm—and they’re both easily accessible from Paris without needing a car. Whether you’re chasing beach resorts, quaint villages, or simply a new favorite spot by the sea, Le Touquet and Dieppe Beach deliver in spades.
Coastal Wonders and Historic Shores – For the Scenic and Soulful Beach Seeker
If you’re craving more than sunbathing and ice cream, France’s northern coastline offers beaches steeped in natural beauty, dramatic vistas, and powerful history. While slightly farther from the French capital, these beach towns are worth the day trip or even a weekend getaway in 2025.
Here are three must-visit beaches near Paris for those looking to be inspired, moved—or just amazed by the view.
Étretat Beach: Nature’s Architecture
The white cliffs of Étretat are one of France’s most iconic coastal sights. Located in Normandy and reachable in about 2.5 to 3 hours by train and bus from Paris, Étretat Beach is famous for its towering limestone formations, natural pools, and the distinct hollow needle that juts out dramatically into the sea.
Why Étretat should be on your list:
- Scenic Drama: This is not your typical sandy beach. Think towering cliffs, pebble shorelines, and the kind of views that make you stop mid-step.
- Hiking & Exploration: Bring good walking shoes! The stretch of coastline above the cliffs offers some of the most rewarding coastal hikes in France.
- Low Tide Magic: At low tide, you can access hidden sea caves and walk beneath natural arches carved out by centuries of waves.
- Romantic Inspiration: Artists like Monet and writers like Maupassant drew inspiration from Étretat’s surreal setting. It’s the perfect place for a peaceful escape.
💡 Travel tip: Go early in the day and stay for sunset time—the light on the cliffs is pure magic.
Omaha Beach: Where History Meets Horizon
For a moving and educational seaside experience, Omaha Beach in Normandy is unmatched. This was one of the five key landing sites during the D-Day invasion, and walking the wide shorelines here is a deeply reflective experience.
Highlights include:
- Historic Site: Visit the American Cemetery and Memorial, just above the beach, which honors the American soldiers who fought and fell during WWII.
- Sandy Shores: The beach itself is peaceful and expansive, ideal for walks and quiet reflection, especially during the summer season when the area is lush and serene.
- Significant Role: Omaha is not just a beach—it’s a historical landmark where you feel the weight of memory with every step.
Though a bit farther than other beaches (roughly 3.5 hours by train and local bus), it’s a popular destination for those combining tourism with a tribute.
Trouville-sur-Mer: The Underrated Sister of Deauville
Just a short walk (or mini train hop) from Deauville, Trouville Beach offers a slightly more bohemian and less polished version of its neighbor. With a large, family-friendly beach resort, colorful beach umbrellas, and charming seafood markets, Trouville-sur-Mer is a great place for relaxed summer vibes.
Why visitors love Trouville:
- Long sandy beach perfect for sunbathing and picnics
- Calm waters ideal for swimming or paddleboarding
- Less flashy, more authentic vibe than its sister town
It’s a hit with locals, Parisians, and international visitors alike—especially those who want to avoid the crowds but still enjoy top-tier beach towns with charm and access.
While the French Riviera may get all the global attention, the best beaches near Paris prove that you don’t need to fly to the Mediterranean coast for stunning views, soft sands, or unforgettable experiences. Whether you opt for the urban oasis of Paris Plages, the Belle Époque glamour of Deauville, the kite-filled skies of Dieppe, or the historic echoes of Omaha Beach, there’s a coastal escape with your name on it—just a few hours from the Eiffel Tower.
