Campsites where you can enjoy the beach and the water
To make the most of the beach and water, your choice of campsite also depends on the setting you’re looking for: by the sea, by a lake, on a lake or by a river – there are plenty of options in France.
Seaside campsites
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.
To make the most of the seaside, you could also choose a campsites with direct access to the beach.
Campsites near lakes and ponds
A great many campsites in France are located near a lake or pond. Those with a beach close by, allowing you to enjoy water-based activities, are rarer, but they can be found all over France. Sometimes these are even private lakes or ponds, reserved exclusively for campers’ use. For holiday ideas, take a look at our selection of lakes in France where you can camp nearby.
Freshwater beaches offer a different atmosphere to the coast. The beaches with facilities on lakes and ponds allow you to enjoy a swim, where permitted, as well as moments of relaxation in the shade of the trees. Some sites also offer fishing.
Campsites by the rivers
Many campsites in France are situated on the banks of a river. Some also have access to an area where you can enjoy the riverbank, or even a beach with facilities.
Depending on the site and local regulations, you can go swimming, fishing or simply enjoy the water and the surrounding countryside. Campsites with their own riverside beach may offer facilities such as jetties, relaxation areas or leisure equipment. Some riverside beaches located on the campground grounds are private.
Swimming in complete peace and quiet from your campsite
What could be more enjoyable than a swim right next to your campsite? Whether you’re a keen swimmer or simply enjoy lazing in the waves, campsites situated by the sea, a lake or a river allow you to make the most of the pleasures of swimming, where permitted.
The Blue Flag scheme recognises many beaches along the French coastline for the quality of their bathing waters and their sustainable management.
Enjoy the beach and the water at your own pace
If you’ve chosen a campsite by the water, it’s to make the most of swimming and water sports. Whether you’re staying by the sea, a lake or a river, the beach and the water offer plenty of ways to fill your days.
Relax and unwind on the beach
After a swim or between activities, the beach is also the perfect place to take some time to relax. Lying on the sand or grass, reading, listening to the sound of the water, soaking up the sun or simply admiring the scenery: everyone can enjoy a moment of peace and quiet during their camping holiday by the water’s edge.
Family fun activities
With children, there’s no end to the beach games you can play, from morning till afternoon! Flying kites, building sandcastles, hunting for shells or playing ball games are all great ways to have fun together, whatever your age. Older children can also get together for a game of football, volleyball or beach tennis… All these activities bring generations together by the water’s edge.
Sports, board sports and water sports
For lovers of water sports and activities, there’s no shortage of options: surfing, sand yachting or snorkelling along the coast, as well as canoeing, kayaking, pedalos, stand-up paddleboarding or sailing on the lakes and rivers. It’s up to you to choose your favourite activity to get active whilst enjoying the water!
Activities and lessons organised by the campsite
With a campsite situated by the water’s edge or offering direct access to the beach, enjoy activities and classes just a stone’s throw from your pitch or mobile home! Stand-up paddleboarding lessons, yoga sessions overlooking the lake or aqua aerobics in the sea… All these activities are made easier by this proximity, ensuring an even more dynamic and sociable holiday. Find out more about the campsite’s activities.
Walks, nature and wellbeing
Fancy something a bit more low-key? Why not go for a walk along the waterfront, a jog at sunrise or a bike ride along the coastal paths or around the lake? There’s nothing quite like it for combining physical activity, nature and a chance to unwind.
Other pleasures of a seaside holiday
The joys of the beach aren’t limited to swimming or water sports! At low tide along the coast, why not go shellfish gathering to hunt for cockles, clams or prawns amongst the rocks? At the end of the day, treat yourself to a stroll with an ice cream in hand, or settle down on a restaurant terrace to admire the sunset over the water. Some campsites are also close to night markets, live music or even food trucks: the perfect opportunity to fully soak up the summery atmosphere of a seaside holiday.
France's most beautiful beaches: where to camp nearby?
To discover France’s most beautiful seaside beaches, 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
So, fancy a dip? Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly beach on the Mediterranean, waves for surfing on the Atlantic coast, a river for canoeing or a lake for swimming, you’re bound to find a campsite right by the water that’s just right for you. Get your sunglasses ready… and let yourself be lulled by the sound of the water.
Campsites whose photos are featured in this article: Camping La Plage du Dramont****, Var (cover photo) – Camping Soulac Plage, Gironde - Camping L'étang de la Bonde, Vaucluse - Camping Le Clapas***, Ardèche - Camping Val de Landrouet***, Côte d'Armor - Camping Yelloh! en Champagne, Haute-Marne