The coasts of France have something for everyone. The celebrity-studded, clothing-optional, beaches of the Côte d'Azur (French Riviera) offer luxury accommodation and amenities… but they are also crowded and expensive. The north and west coasts offer long secluded beaches, family resorts, and great surfing… but the water is not as clear or as warm as the Mediterranean coast or Corsica.

Belle-île-en Mer
Located off the coast of Bretagne (Brittany), this island’s secluded sandy beaches are accessible by ferry from Quiberon.

Biarritz
Located on the Côte Basque (Basque Coast), this resort hosts the Surf Festival each July.

Cannes
Located on the French Riviera, this town’s sandy beaches line La Croisette - the famous promenade. There is a good free public beach in front of the Palais des Festivals.

Cap d'Agde
Located near Montpellier, this nudist village has tight security and is surrounded with barbed wire.

Corse (Corsica)
Located between France and Italy, this island is accessible by ferry from Marseille, Toulon, or Nice. Alternatively, the island is a 50-minute flight from Nice or Marseille. Best beaches include:

* Golfe di Sogno Beach
* Palombaggia Beach
* Santa Giulia Beach
* Loto Beach and Saleccia Beach - accessible by boat or a long walk from St. Florent
* Port Vecchio - a high-end resort town
* St. Restitude - a small secluded beach near Calvi

Ile de Porquerolles
Located in the Iles d'Hyères, this tiny island is accessible by ferry from Giens, near Toulon.

La Baule
Located in Bretagne (Brittany), this beautiful bay town boasts a casino and as a family favorite.

La Rochelle
Located on the Atlantic coast, this popular port town is another family favorite.

Monte Carlo
Located on the French Riviera, this is another celebrity-studded beach.

Pléneuf-Val-André
Located in Bretagne (Brittany), this town boasts a traditional Breton fishing harbor.

St. Tropez
Located on the French Riviera, the best beaches include:

* Bouillabaisse Beach
* Graniers Beach
* Jumeaux Beach
* Pampellone Beach - sandy beaches and bars
* Port Grimaud Beach
* Tahiti Beach - famous clothing optional beach

Check out the European Blue Flag Campaign website to verify current compliance with criteria including water quality, environmental management, safety and services.

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