Beaches in Normandy, France, dot a coastline that stretches for more than 600 kilometers. White chalk cliffs dominate the inspirational landscapes of Étretat, which are famously captured on canvas by Impressionist painters. Just a two-hour drive from Paris, this pretty seaside town is a favorite weekend escape from the city

The Calanques National Park is an oasis of calm between the bustling city of Marseille and the seaside village of Cassis. A protected and much-loved area for hiking and outdoor pursuits, it’s here you’ll find some of the most treasured beaches in the south of France. Among them, Calanque d’En Vau is famed for its striking scenery. It’s a somewhat difficult and dramatic descent to the beach from the hiking trail, but one you won’t regret as you surrender to your surroundings

A hidden gem on France’s southern edge, Calanque de l’Everine sits among the craggy headlands of the Côte Bleue. This area to the southwest of Marseille is peppered with calanques, often hiding beaches beneath the stone arches of a railway bridge. This petite cove is one of the most spectacular spots along this coastline and one of the most secluded. Bring your snorkeling mask and swim out to the île de l’Everine just offshore.

Eucalyptus and pine forests set the scene at Plage Notre Dame, undoubtedly one of the prettiest beaches in France and in the Mediterranean. Yachts bob peacefully in this sheltered bay, which is located on the island of Porquerolles. Don’t forget to take your snorkel and mask to swim with shoals of fish in the pristine turquoise waters.

The central beach of Le Lavandou is a family-friendly favorite, with sports and festivals taking place on the golden sand during summer holidays. To add to the festive atmosphere, the Big Wheel of Le Lavandou offers panoramic views of the ocean and the city center, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take memorable French beach photos.

Biscarrosse is considered the first seaside resort in the Landes. It is also a vacation area for many inhabitants of the Landes, who come to enjoy the gentle Landes lifestyle by the ocean. It offers numerous aquatic leisure activities at sea, but also on the banks of its bodies of water.

The Dune du Pilat is the largest dune in Europe, and it is must-see in Gironde. It is also very popular with tourists during the summer season. But if you have the chance to climb it out of season, you will be impressed by this immense deserted sand dune, which flows into the ocean.

A huge beach of fine sand, the Conche des Baleines is ideal for swimming. It stretches from the famous Phare des Baleines to Portes en Ré, bordered by the Lizay forest. This beach has retained its wild and authentic appearance.