Brittany beaches are among the most beautiful coastal attractions in France, with stunning sandy shores, hidden coves, dramatic cliffs and crystal clear waters. Brittany is a wonderful place to visit for anyone who wants to experience a relaxing seaside holiday in a stunning natural setting, in north-western France.
Whether you love sunbathing, exploring picturesque fishing villages, trying water sports or discovering charming French seaside towns, Brittany has something for every traveller.
With hundreds of kilometres of coastline, choosing where to visit can be difficult. The region has an incredible variety of coastal experiences, from the spectacular Pink Granite Coast to the beautiful sandy shores of southern Finistère.
In this guide, we will discover the best beaches in Brittany, from family-friendly beaches to popular surfing spots and hidden coves. Whether you’re planning a short break or longer Brittany beach holidays, these 15 beautiful beaches deserve a place on your travel itinerary.
Let’s discover the most beautiful beaches Brittany has to offer!
15 Best Beaches in Brittany, France
1. Plage de l’Écluse, Dinard
Plage de l’Écluse is one of the most renowned beaches in Brittany. This beautiful sandy beach is immediately recognizable by its colourful blue and white striped beach tents and its great views of the Emerald Coast, and is located in the elegant seaside town of Dinard.
It is very central and is a favourite place for families. There are cafés and restaurants nearby, and seasonal beach facilities and beautiful coastal walks.
Once you’ve had a rest on the beach, wander through the pretty streets of Dinard and enjoy the impressive Belle Époque villas.
Best for: Families, couples, swimming and seaside restaurants.
2. Plage de Saint-Guirec, Ploumanac’h
If you’re looking for spectacular scenery, Plage de Saint-Guirec is a must-visit destination.
This scenic beach is situated along the renowned Pink Granite Coast, where the surrounding pink granite rocks form one of the most unique coastal landscapes in Brittany.
The beach is not very large, but it is a very beautiful beach, which is a great place for photography and exploring the coastline.
Don’t miss the nearby coastal paths, where you can admire dramatic rock formations and beautiful sea views.
Best for: Photography, couples and scenic coastal walks.
3. Plage de Tahiti, Névez
Plage de Tahiti is one of the most beautiful sandy beaches in southern Brittany.
Situated near Névez, this beautiful coastal spot is known for its pale sand, clear water and peaceful natural surroundings.
It’s a great place to stay for those looking to get away from the more crowded seaside resorts and experience a more laid-back beach vibe.
Pack a picnic, spend the afternoon by the sea and enjoy the beautiful scenery that makes this part of Brittany so special.
Best for: Relaxation, couples and nature lovers.
4. Plage de Longchamp, Saint-Lunaire
Plage de Longchamp is a great beach for those who want an active seaside holiday.
This long sandy beach is close to Dinard and is a favourite spot for surfers and watersports fans.
It has an open coastline with ample room for beach activities and the surrounding area is great for coastal walks.
The beach is especially appealing to those who want to enjoy both relaxation and outdoor activities.
Best for: Surfing, watersports and active holidays.
5. Plage de l’Île Vierge, Crozon
The Crozon Peninsula is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, hidden coves and stunning coastal scenery.
Plage de l’Île Vierge is one of the area’s most photographed locations, with turquoise-looking water surrounded by steep rocky cliffs.
The view is amazing, but this cove may be closed for safety and environmental concerns. Visitors are encouraged to take in the views from the coastal access trails, and not try to access the beach when access is restricted.
Best for: Photography, dramatic landscapes and nature lovers.
6. Plage des Sables Blancs, Concarneau
Plage des Sables Blancs is one of the most popular beaches near Concarneau.
It is a lovely place to spend a relaxing afternoon with its beautiful sandy shoreline and attractive seaside setting.
The nearby town of Concarneau is also worth exploring. After a day at the beach, there is plenty to discover in its historic walled centre, fishing harbour and traditional Breton atmosphere.
Best for: Families, swimming and exploring seaside towns.
7. Plage de Saint-Sieu, Lancieux
Located along the Emerald Coast, Plage de Saint-Sieu is a beautiful sandy beach with plenty of space for outdoor activities.
It is particularly popular with watersports enthusiasts, with sailing and other activities available in the surrounding area.
The beach is also a great spot for coastal walks and admiring the natural beauty of northern Brittany.
Best for: Watersports, families and coastal walks.
8. Plage de l’Île Saint-Nicolas, Îles de Glénan
The Glénan Islands are one of the most beautiful natural destinations off the coast of Brittany.
The islands are famous for their white sandy beaches and the water is very clear, sometimes likened to tropical islands.
One of the most popular destinations is Île Saint-Nicolas. During the warmer months, boat trips make it possible to explore this beautiful archipelago.
There are limited facilities, so be prepared and bring necessary supplies.
Best for: Island escapes, photography and nature lovers.
9. Plage de Port Blanc, Dinard
Another pretty seaside spot close to Dinard is Plage de Port Blanc.
It is more natural than the central beach of the town, and has rocky coastal scenery and beautiful views across the sea.
It is a popular location for enjoying watersports, relaxing by the water and exploring the surrounding coastline.
Best for: Watersports, coastal scenery and relaxing beach days.
10. Plage de Kerhillio, Erdeven
Kerhillio Beach is a great place for all those who enjoy expansive sandy beaches.
This long stretch of coastline near Erdeven in southern Brittany is ideal for walking, sunbathers and admiring the Atlantic views.
It is also a favourite among watersports enthusiasts, especially if the wind is right.
It is a large space, which is ideal for those who want a more natural beach experience.
Best for: Long walks, watersports and outdoor activities.
11. Plage de la Mine d’Or, Pénestin
Plage de la Mine d’Or is one of the most unique coastal spots in Brittany.
The most impressive feature is the huge cliffs of gold and ochre that overlook the sandy beach. The sea is a beautiful contrast to the unusual colours, making this location particularly popular with photographers.
Come in the late afternoon to see the light play over the cliffs.
Do not stand under the cliffs as they can be unstable and dangerous.
Best for: Photography, dramatic scenery and coastal walks.
12. Plage de Tresmeur, Trébeurden
Situated along the Pink Granite Coast, Plage de Tresmeur is a beautiful sandy beach with lovely coastal views.
It has a large beach and is a popular holiday spot for families, couples and anyone wanting to experience a traditional French seaside holiday.
The nearby town of Trébeurden also has restaurants, accommodation and the chance to explore the nearby coastline.
Best for: Families, relaxing and seaside holidays.
13. Plage de la Torche, Plomeur
Plage de la Torche is one of Brittany’s most famous surfing destinations.
This beach in the Finistère department is exposed to the Atlantic and is a popular destination for surfers and watersports enthusiasts all year round.
It is especially attractive to adventurous travellers due to its strong waves, wild coastline and dramatic ocean views.
If you’re new to surfing, consider booking a lesson with a local surf school and always check the conditions before entering the water.
Best for: Surfing, adventure and Atlantic coastal scenery.
14. Plage de Bon-Secours, Saint-Malo
Plage de Bon-Secours is located in the historic seaside city of Saint-Malo and is renowned for its stunning location and breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline.
One of its most unique features is the seawater swimming pool, which is particularly popular during low tide.
The beach is a wonderful place to relax after exploring Saint-Malo’s historic walled town, traditional streets and maritime attractions.
Best for: Families, sightseeing and swimming.
15. Plage de la Baule, La Baule-Escoublac
Although La Baule is administratively in Loire-Atlantique rather than the Brittany region, it is a popular addition to wider coastal holidays in the area.
Its enormous sandy shoreline stretches for several kilometres, providing plenty of space for sunbathing, beach walks and watersports.
The nearby seaside resort has restaurants, cafés, hotels and traditional holiday activities.
Best for: Long beach days, families and water sports.
Best Beaches in Brittany for Families
Brittany is a great place for family holidays. Many beaches have large sandy beaches, restaurants and seasonal facilities.
If you are travelling with children, you may want to consider the following:
- Plage de l’Écluse, Dinard: A popular central beach with nearby cafés and seasonal facilities.
- Plage des Sables Blancs, Concarneau: A lovely sandy beach close to a historic seaside town.
- Plage de Tresmeur, Trébeurden: A spacious beach with a traditional seaside atmosphere.
- Plage de Bon-Secours, Saint-Malo: Famous for its seawater swimming pool and historic surroundings.
Before visiting, always check lifeguard availability, swimming conditions and local beach safety information.
Best Beaches in Brittany for Surfing
Brittany’s Atlantic coastline is particularly attractive to surfers thanks to its exposed beaches and varied wave conditions.
Some of the best places to consider include:
- La Torche: One of the region’s best-known surfing destinations.
- Longchamp Beach: A popular surfing location near Saint-Lunaire.
- Kerhillio Beach: An open sandy beach popular with watersports enthusiasts.
Whether you’re an experienced surfer or a beginner, Brittany offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the Atlantic waves.
Remember to check local forecasts and follow safety advice before entering the water.
Best Brittany Seaside Towns to Explore
One of the best things about visiting Brittany is the chance to enjoy stunning beaches and picturesque seaside towns.
Here are five places to consider for your holiday plans.
Dinard
Dinard is one of the most beautiful seaside resorts in Brittany, renowned for its elegant Belle Époque architecture, beautiful seafront and attractive sandy beaches.
Saint-Malo
This historic walled city boasts of its impressive maritime heritage, beautiful coastal views and sandy beaches. It’s a great place to mix sightseeing with seaside relaxation.
Concarneau
Concarneau offers a wonderful combination of fishing harbour scenery, historic streets and attractive beaches. Its famous walled town is particularly worth exploring.
Perros-Guirec
An excellent base for discovering the Pink Granite Coast, Perros-Guirec is surrounded by beautiful beaches, unusual rock formations and spectacular walking routes.
Quiberon
Quiberon is a popular coastal destination with beautiful beaches, dramatic scenery and opportunities for surfing, sailing and other watersports.
These brittany seaside towns offer the perfect combination of coastal relaxation, local food, culture and outdoor activities.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Brittany Beaches?
Brittany beaches are typically best enjoyed from June through September when the weather is warmer and many seasonal beach facilities are open.
However, each season offers a different experience.
- Spring (March–May): Ideal for quieter coastal walks, sightseeing and discovering less crowded beaches.
- Summer (June–August): The most popular period for swimming, sunbathing and traditional beach holidays.
- Autumn (September–October): A lovely time for photography, coastal walks and exploring seaside towns.
- Winter (November–February): Perfect for dramatic coastal scenery, peaceful beach walks and enjoying the fresh sea air.
If you are planning to swim, be sure to check the local sea temperatures, which can be quite cool even in the summer.
Tips for Planning Brittany Beach Holidays
With a little preparation, your brittany beach holidays can be much more enjoyable.
1. Check the tides
The tides are very high in Brittany. Beaches may change significantly from high to low tide.
Check local tide information before setting out, especially if you plan to explore smaller coves.
2. Pack suitable clothing
Even during summer, coastal weather can change quickly. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a lightweight waterproof jacket, swimwear and sun protection.
3. Check swimming safety
Not all beaches are safe for swimming. Strong currents and changing sea conditions are found on some Atlantic facing beaches.
Obey local warning flags and lifeguard directions.
UK visitors should check the official GOV.UK France safety and security advice before travelling, including advice on swimming safety and watersports.
4. Explore beyond the main beaches
The smaller coves, walking trails and lesser-known seaside villages are some of the most memorable experiences along the coast in Brittany.
Don’t limit your trip to the most popular resorts. Allow time to explore different parts of the coastline.
5. Book accommodation early
Seaside resorts like Dinard, Saint-Malo and Perros-Guirec can be crowded during the summer holidays.
Pre-booking accommodation provides more options and can help you to budget for your holiday.
6. Prepare your travel documents
For UK travellers, please consult passport and entry requirements prior to departure.
The official GOV.UK France entry requirements page provides information about passport validity, visa rules and other requirements for British visitors.
You should also consider appropriate travel insurance. The UK government’s foreign travel checklist provides useful advice about preparing for an overseas trip.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Beaches in Brittany
What are the best beaches in Brittany, France?
The best beaches in Brittany France are Plage de l’Écluse in Dinard, Plage de Saint-Guirec in Ploumanac’h, Plage des Sables Blancs in Concarneau, Plage de la Torche in Plomeur and Plage de Tresmeur in Trébeurden.
They each have their own unique features, ranging from family-friendly amenities to surfing spots and stunning coastal views.
Are Brittany beaches good for swimming?
Yes, many beaches in Brittany are good for swimming, especially in the summer.
However, sea temperatures can be cool, and some Atlantic-facing beaches experience strong currents and changing tides.
Always check local swimming conditions and obey lifeguard instructions.
Does Brittany have sandy beaches?
Absolutely. Brittany is home to hundreds of beautiful sandy beaches, from long stretches of golden sand to small sheltered coves.
Dinard, Tresmeur, Longchamp and the beaches around Concarneau are popular choices.
What is the best month for Brittany beach holidays?
July and August are typically the peak months for traditional beach holidays.
If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere, June and September are also great options.
Which part of Brittany has the most beautiful beaches?
Southern Brittany is particularly popular for its sandy beaches and island scenery, while northern Brittany is famous for its dramatic cliffs, beautiful coastal towns and the Pink Granite Coast.
Both regions are great places for a seaside holiday.
Is Brittany worth visiting for a beach holiday?
Definitely. Brittany is a mix of beautiful beaches, charming seaside towns, fresh seafood, outdoor activities and spectacular natural landscapes.
From family vacations to romantic getaways or active coastal adventures, there’s a lot to explore.
Final Thoughts: Discover the Best Beaches in Brittany
From the elegant seaside resort of Dinard to the dramatic coastline of the Crozon Peninsula, Brittany is full of beautiful destinations waiting to be explored.
From sandy beaches to secluded coves, surfing the Atlantic waves to exploring traditional French seaside towns, the region has something for everyone.
If you have more time, you might want to continue your coastal journey and explore other beaches in France along the Atlantic coast in our guide to [Atlantic coast beaches in France].
The best way to enjoy Brittany is to visit various parts of the coast. Every region is unique in its character, scenery and seaside ambience.
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