This ancient Greek port and Roman colony might now be France’s second-largest city, but the sprawling metropolis of Marseille retains its seafaring charm.
Several mythical seaside towns—Cassis, Bandol in naturally glamorous Var, and the Côte Bleue tangoing into flamingo-stitched Camargue—are all within an easy train ride of the Provencal capital. The Parc National des Calanques contains a string of ravishingly wild inlets reached on foot or by boat.
As every self-respecting Marseillais proudly tells, there’s no need to leave the city to find powder-soft golden sand, pebbled coves shaded by perfumed Aleppo pines, and old-school rock ladders plunging into turquoise, gin-clear water. Here are eight of the best beaches you should not miss.
Calanque de Marseilleveyre: Best for Lunch in the Wild
A hike in Les Calanques is a Marseille rite of passage. In this national park, rocky footpaths spiral between maquis (herbal scrub), sun-scorched agaves, and parasol pines to unveil breathtaking vistas of the Med and vertiginous limestone cliffs plunging down to doll-sized calanques (coves) far below.
The best known calanques can get overcrowded with tourists. Head instead to the deliciously local secret: Calanque de Marseilleveyre. Pick up the signposted hiking trail to the paradisiac cove in Callelongue; it should take about 50 minutes. Enjoy a tranquil lunch at an isolated cottage with no reservations—just simple dishes and extraordinary views. Paddling by sea kayak is also a fun option.
Plage des Catalans: Best for Urban Dips, Volleyball, and Underwater Art
From the Vieux Port, walk 20 minutes or take a public-sharing e-scooter to glide to the nearest beach. This modest yet sheltered beach lured the first swimmers in the 19th century and became fashionable in the 1920s.
Catalans’ sands now host the city’s beach volleyball club. Watch participants play while enjoying a dip in the sea. Bring your snorkeling gear to admire giant underwater sculptures at Marseille’s unique underwater museum, located 100 meters from the shore.
Plage de la Bonne Brise: Best for Sunrise Swims
Follow locals to this small sandy beach, known for stunning views and the opportunity to overnight in a vintage fisherman’s hut. With the beach to yourself after hours, waking up to a sunrise swim is a magical experience.
Plages du Prado: Best for Family Fun
Stunning views of seaside Marseille unfold along the coastal corniche that stretches south from Catalans to Plages du Prado. This trio of beaches is the busiest strip, especially during the weekend in summer. Join locals enjoying the wide shingle beach, indulge in mini-golf, or engage in various nautical activities.
Île Degaby: Best Desert-Island Beach
If five-star luxury is what you seek, this uninhabited islet offers privacy. Lounge on parasol-shaded sun beds, swim from the deck, and enjoy the thrill of desert-island life. However, access is generally limited to hotel guests, so be prepared to explore local spots for your beach towel.
Plage de la Baie de Singes: Best for Chic and Bouillabaisse
In the enchanting fishing village of Les Goudes, this sandy beach provides a sense of seclusion. Accessed only via a restaurant, it’s the chic spot to relax, indulge in delicious seafood, and enjoy stunning views of the Mediterranean.
Plage de la Pointe Rouge: Best for Sea Walking with City Views
Visit this expansive beach early to enjoy tranquility. Participants can often be seen paddling or stand-up paddleboarding, capitalizing on the beautiful seafaring views. When the midday sun hits, local eateries serve up delightful beachside meals, perfect for a family day out.
Plage de St-Estève: Best for Marine Biodiversity
Pack your snorkeling gear and take a boat to Île Ratonneau. This beach is ideal for observing marine life, thanks to its unique underwater trails and vibrant ecosystem, making it a family-friendly destination.
