Camping holidays by the sea, close to the beaches
Seaside holidays are the ideal place to relax and enjoy the pleasures of the sea. With around 2,000 campsites along the French coastline, holidaymakers can stay as close as possible to the beaches, with their fine sand, wild coves and spectacular cliffs. Swimming, water sports, seaside walks and sunsets punctuate the holiday. From the English Channel to the Mediterranean, these campsites allow you to discover a variety of landscapes while enjoying friendly and often affordable accommodation, perfect for holidays with family or friends.
The pleasure of sea views from your campsite
Whether it's synonymous with simplicity or comfort, seaside camping seduces with its promise of escape and freedom. With its warm atmosphere, direct access to the beach and diversity of landscapes, it's one of the most authentic ways to experience the sea, from sunrise to sunset.
Waterside camping: enjoy the beach at your own pace!
If you've chosen a campsite with direct access to the beach, it's to take advantage of the various aquatic and water sports activities. Whether you go to the Atlantic coast, the English Channel or the Mediterranean, the beach and the water offer you a multitude of activities to punctuate your days.
Family fun activities
With children, the beach games are endless, morning and afternoon! The kite is a fun challenge: can you fly it high into the sky? For the little ones, there's a well-deserved snack break before building a fabulous sandcastle or discovering seashells. And of course, ball games are still a must: football, volleyball, rackets, beach volleyball... activities for all generations.
Safe swimming for all
What could be more pleasant than a swim in crystal-clear water at the foot of your campsite? Whether you're a keen swimmer or just want to laze in the waves, the sea is always there.
In terms of safety, the French coastline is dotted with numerous Blue Flag beaches (Pavillon bleu), guaranteeing excellent bathing water quality and sustainable site management. A real plus for swimming in complete confidence, especially with children!
Sports and thrills by the sea, in the south of France and on the Atlantic coast
For thrill-seekers, the beach is the ideal playground, and there's no shortage of water sports: surfing in the Atlantic Ocean, sand yachting on the beaches of the English Channel, stand-up paddle, sailing, snorkelling in the clear, shallow waters of the Atlantic or the Mediterranean in the south of France... It's up to you to choose your favourite activity so you can work off your energy while enjoying the sea air!
Entertainment and courses on the beach, it's easy when the campsite has direct access to the sea
With a campsite with direct access to the beach, take advantage of activities organised by the campsite just a few steps from your pitch or mobile home! Paddle lessons, yoga sessions facing the ocean or aqua aerobics in the sea... All activities made easier by this proximity, for an even more dynamic and friendly stay.
Nature walks and well-being by the sea
Looking for something more gentle? Choose a walk by the water, a jog at sunrise or a cycle ride along the coastal paths. There's no better way to combine sport and contemplation.
And much, much more...
The pleasures of the beach don't stop at swimming or water sports! At low tide, why not go fishing on foot for cockles, clams or prawns in the rocks? At the end of the day, take a stroll along the coastal promenade, ice cream in hand, or sit on the terrace of a beach restaurant to watch the sun set. Some campsites also take advantage of the proximity of night markets, musical events and even food trucks on the seafront: the perfect opportunity to experience the summer atmosphere of a beach holiday to the full.
Seaside resorts, a camper's paradise: Sérignan, Biscarosse, Vias, Valras plage, Port Grimaud, Marseillan...
France has more than 250 seaside resorts along its Atlantic, Mediterranean and Channel coasts. These resorts offer a variety of beaches, summer entertainment, marinas and a rich tourist offering. They offer a wide choice of accommodation, including a large number of campsites, with direct access to the coastline and numerous activities for holidaymakers.
Some of the most famous, such as La Baule, Biarritz, Arcachon, Deauville, Nice and Cannes, combine luxury, heritage and entertainment. Others, such as Saint-Jean-de-Monts, Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez, Biscarrosse, Argelès-sur-Mer, Marseillan, Vias and Sérignan, are renowned for their long sandy beaches and family-friendly atmosphere.
France's most beautiful beaches: choose a campsite nearby
Metropolitan France has over 5,800 km of coastline, bordered by the English Channel, the Atlantic and the Mediterranean. From north to south, there are some 2,600 beaches, ranging from vast stretches of fine sand to rocky coves and wild dunes. From the Côte d'Opale to the beaches of Brittany, then the immense shores of the Atlantic before reaching the Mediterranean coastline, the diversity of landscapes is a delight for holidaymakers. To discover the most beautiful beaches in France, choose your destination:
- Your campsite close to the most beautiful beaches on the Channel and North Sea coasts
- Your campsite close to the most beautiful Atlantic beaches
- Your campsite close to the Mediterranean's most beautiful beaches
Campsites with direct access to the beach, with your feet in the water, from the Mediterranean to the Atlantic
The best way to enjoy these typical holiday activities is to spend your camping holiday at a campsite with direct access to the beach:
Staying at a campsite with direct access to the sea means enjoying every moment to the full, with no constraints: no road to cross, no car to take. Just a few steps are enough to reach the beach, with your feet in the water, from morning to night. Ideal for families, nature lovers or those in search of serenity, this type of campsite offers unique comfort, particularly in mobile homes, with sea views and sunsets to boot. A real break from the hustle and bustle, with spontaneous swimming, playing in the sand and relaxing by the ocean.
See our selection of campsites with direct access to the beach.
Beach fun at a campsite near a lake or river
Many campsites in France are located near a lake, pond or river. Fewer have a beach close by, so you can enjoy the benefits of the water.
Freshwater beaches offer a unique atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of the coastline. The landscaped banks of lakes and rivers are havens of tranquillity where families can enjoy swimming in more temperate waters.
On these natural beaches lined with greenery, the days pass peacefully between refreshing swims and moments of relaxation in the shade of the trees. The softness of these sites means that even the youngest children can splash about in complete safety.
Many campsites have their own private beach on the banks of a lake or river. These unspoilt areas guarantee special moments, with a personalised welcome and facilities designed for your comfort: swimming pontoons, shaded areas and leisure facilities.
So, do you fancy a dive? Whether you're looking for a family beach in the Mediterranean, waves to surf on the Atlantic coast or a quiet cove in Brittany, you're bound to find a waterfront campsite to suit you. Get your sunglasses ready... and let yourself be carried away by the sound of the waves.
Campsites whose photos are featured in this article: Camping Soulac Plage, Gironde - Camping Yelloh! en Champagne, Haute-Marne - Camping MARINA D'ERBA ROSSA, Haute-Corse - Camping L'étang de la Bonde, Vaucluse