Best Beaches Near Marseille

You’re wondering where to find beautiful sandy beaches, clear waters, and a slice of Mediterranean life? Look no further! Marseille, located along the Mediterranean Sea on France’s sunny southern coast, is exactly what you’re looking for. As France’s largest city on the coast, it’s a great starting point to explore sandy stretches, rocky coves, and hidden bays perfect for a beach day.

Marseille beaches are as different as its neighborhoods—from sandy shores like Plage du Prado to more rocky spots in the Calanques National Park. You can enjoy everything from swimming spots and sea kayaking to lively beach volleyball courts and calm, more private beach options. Here’s your guide to the best beaches near Marseille, with everything you need to know to make the most of your day by the water’s edge.

Our Top Picks for Beaches Near Marseille

The city's many beaches are perfect for a late-afternoon vacation or a quick swim after a day of sightseeing. But, the most beautiful beaches are only a short drive from the city, so take a look at our top picks:

Plage des Catalans

Located close to Vieux Port, Plage des Catalans is one of the closest beaches to the Old Port. Its fine sand, turquoise waters, and nearby amenities make it a top choice among Marseille locals.

• Getting There: You can easily get to this one if you’re up to a last-minute beach day. It is just a 30-minute walk from the city center or a 15-minute ride on public transport. If you’re driving, park in the city center and take a walk through Marseille’s wonderful streets!
• Why Visit: Plage des Catalans has a relaxing vibe with beach volleyball courts, and if you’re brave enough, you can take part in some of the competitions that happen there! There is also some interesting aquatic life on the beach. You can snorkel and see the seafloor, fish, and go to an underwater museum, one of many museums in Marseille. It is 100 meters from the beach and has several sculptures at a depth of five meters. If you just want to chill and relax— beautiful views of Frioul Archipelago are what you’re looking for!

Make the Most of Your Day: If you’re planning to walk around Vieux Port after a swim, think about using a luggage storage spot near the port. It’s perfect for stashing away beach towels and snacks while you explore the area.

Plage du Prado

The Prado Beaches, or Plages du Prado (if you want to work on your French) are a collection of sandy and pebble beaches in the south of Marseille. Created in the 1970s, they’re now among the largest and most visited beaches in the city.

• Getting There: Hop on bus 19 from  "Rond Point du Prado", or bus 83 from the Old Port (Prado Nord stop only). If you’re coming by car, it’s only about 20 minutes from the center with many different parking options along the beach.
• Why Visit: There’s a skate park, sanitary facilities, and a lot of space for beach games. It’s very popular among water sports enthusiasts like kitesurfers and windsurfers, thanks to the great winds in the area. Also, if you’re bringing some kiddos, no worries. You’ll find many children’s play areas, snack bars, and green spaces.

Make the Most of Your Day: If you’re thinking about heading somewhere else after your beach time, drop your beach gear in a luggage storage facility nearby. It’s great for anyone who wants to hit the beach on their way out of town or explore more before returning.

Baie des Singes

La Baie des Singes literally means ‘Monkey Bay’. Legend has it that the smugglers who once operated here would ask local children to be "as quiet as monkeys". If you’re looking for an interesting fact to tell after you get back from the vacation, this is a good start. 

• Getting There: The beach is about a 30-minute drive from the city, and the beach is easiest to reach by car since public transport options are a bit limited. There is also a lot of free parking there!
• Why Visit: If you’re a seafood lover, you can’t miss the famous La Baie des Singes restaurant. A reservation is a must because the place is popular with both locals and tourists. You’ll only find a menu with fresh and locally sourced food, all with a focus on the catch of the day!

Make the Most of Your Day: This beach doesn’t have any facilities, so bring only the essentials. A luggage storage spot can be handy for storing larger items you don’t want to carry. Just bring your beach towel and you're ready to go!

Sainte-Croix Beach

In the charming town of La Couronne, Sainte-Croix Beach is a beautiful sandy beach a bit further from Marseille’s center. The beach is 100 meters long and 40 meters wide which makes it perfect for a friendly gathering or a family picnic. Also, the beach is monitored during the summer, so everyone will be able to enjoy their day worry-free.

• Getting There: This beach is about a 40-minute drive west of Marseille, and you can get there by car or Marseille transport services.
• Why Visit: If you’re up for a completely different experience, this beach is for you! Sport fishing on St. Croix is an activity that everyone can enjoy! You might spot some fish like Wahoo, mahi mahi, tuna, marlin, and occasionally sailfish. Just do a little online research and choose a captain who will guide you through the entire process.

Make the Most of Your Day: Are you a family loaded up with toys, bikes, strollers, and all sorts of beach gear? Or a camping crew hauling your ‘homes’ along? Perhaps, you’re a businessperson juggling laptops and other gadgets while waiting for your late flight. No worries at all! You can leave your extra stuff in luggage storage spots near Marseille for an easy day trip to Sainte-Croix Beach. Bounce partners can make it easier for you, so check out some of the nearby options. At the end of the day, it’s much easier to enjoy yourself without lugging around all those bags, right?