Paris Beaches
Although beaches may not be the first thing that comes to mind when visiting Paris, the city has done its part to embrace the beach atmosphere during the summer months. The Paris-Plage is a manmade beach project that was started in 2002 that brings the shore to the Seine.
Every year during July and August, the city blocks off the streets on the right bank of the Seine, filling parts of it with sand. The attraction is a huge hit both with tourists and with locals who crave the beach but are stuck in the city throughout the summer months. It’s great fun to witness white sand and palm trees in the middle of Paris, and the relaxed, sunny atmosphere causes even the most uptight Parisian to let loose a bit. The beach is typically open until midnight every day during these two months.
The beach is set up in three different locations for maximum enjoyment by all Parisians. Along the Seine is the most relaxing location, with sand to stretch out on. You can rent lounge chairs for free and park beneath one of the huge sun umbrellas set up on the sand. Although there’s no swimming allowed in the Seine, the city has suspended swimming pools above the Seine for splashing. One of the best parts about this part of Paris-Plage is the series of outdoor concerts that are held during these warm summer nights.
For those who are more into an active beach experience, Paris-Plage has a water sports installment at the Bassin de la Villette. All types of water sports are allowed during these months, from kayaking to sailing. Instead of nighttime concerts, there are movie screenings.
The third location is at the National Library, where visitors can browse books or use free wireless Internet. This location is less rowdy, but it’s fun to soak in the more modern beach vibe and enjoy the nighttime concerts that this area also holds.
As the years go on, Paris-Plage continues to add more helpful features, including a shuttle bus that takes beachgoers between the three locations, and a free mineral water machine at the Library location.
Beaches outside of Paris: If you’re willing to take a bit of time to leave the city and go into Normandy, a trip to Mont Saint Michel is highly recommended. The beautiful location is a tidal island featuring a narrow land bridge that is covered a high tide.
Atop the rocky island is a beautiful abbey with amazing views of the tide from its wide stone terraces. There are tours available to explore the impressive architecture and fascinating history that lies within the walls of the enormous abbey, but perhaps the best part is just wandering through and admiring the ocean views from various hidden windows throughout. Below the abbey lies an amusingly touristy village, with small restaurants and souvenir shops all faithfully sticking to its medieval theme.