One of the busiest ports for business is located at Sete on the Mediterranean coast, which protects southern France. Visit Sete if you're looking for a charming, typical Mediterranean town where you can enjoy seafood and boat rides. Although it has a bustling port at its center, 13 kilometers of peaceful, undeveloped coastline are located to the west of the town.

The Étang de Thau, a saltwater lake, and the ocean are divided by this region. One of the most picturesque coastal villages in all of France, it begs for a stroll after dinner as you observe the day winding down in the harbor. Of course, the seafood in this area is exceptionally fresh.Strangely, water jousting is a tradition in Sete! Additionally, it's a great location for water sports and beach time.

The town is as charming as a picture-perfect utopian settlement and extends to a long seaside limit nearby. Sete stands out among the seaside communities in the south of France due to its distinct atmosphere. This is the spot to be for someone who travels to find comfort under a starry blue sky. Both the fresh seafood and the proud tradition of water jousting are celebrated in Sete.

• Location: Southern France

• What to do: Boat trips, beaches, watersports

Without a mention of Nouvelle-Aquitaine, this list of the top seaside towns in France would be incomplete. In the French Basque Country, Saint-Jean-de-Luz is a charming coastal community with a fascinating past and stunning architecture. Any road journey through the French Basque Country must make this visit.

Whale hunters lived in Saint-Jean-de-Luz, which later developed into a privateers' settlement. The marriage of King Louis XIV and Infanta Maria Teresa of Spain took place in Saint-Jean-de-Luz in 1660 because of its prime location on the France-Spain border.

Explore the town's biggest attractions by foot. Visit the harbor to see the pink Maison de l'Infanta and Place Louis XIV on the right, the Rhune Mountain on the left, Ciboure village, Maurice Ravel's residence on the other side, and the harbor itself.

Of course, you should also take a stroll down the shore at Saint-Jean-de-Luz to view the scenery and local architecture. The Saint-Jean-de-Luz Church (Église Saint-Jean Baptiste), with its boat-shaped, wooden galleries, and vibrant altarpiece, is not far from the Grande Plage.

Saint-Jean-de-Luz is the definition of civilization on a postage stamp, with the Atlantic Sea separating land from sea and a history that rivals Game of Thrones. Three sea walls protect this town from the sea's ferocious north winds, and it has an interesting origin tale that is detailed in the map.

This town can without a doubt be ranked as one of the best seaside towns in France, offering everything from organic, fresh food to nostalgia that makes you want to move there. To make the vacation even more enjoyable, there are many surfing alternatives in the area of Biarritz.

• Location: Southwestern France
• Best for: the landscape and typical houses
  
• What to do: Explore local markets, casino

Trouville-sur-Mer, an underappreciated hamlet with incredible natural diversity, made this list of French coastal towns with its extensive lengths of beach, rolling hills and hillocks, and old school harbor. Its boardwalk, which dates back to the 19th century and is studded with stores and flea markets, is its most well-known section. The ideal season to travel is during the summer since the contrast between the warm beach and cool sea water is so pleasant!

When compared to Deauville, which is located just up the coast and is more well known, Trouville-sur-Mer is a little undervalued. However, with its extensive stretches of coastline and rolling hills teeming with wildlife, this is one of the nicest seaside villages in Northern France.

You browse the stores and flea markets. Naturally, the water here is colder than that along the French Riviera. However, it's still a fantastic place to be in the summer. And of course, if you drive from the UK across the Channel, it's considerably easier to get to. The sand on the beach is gorgeous. In addition to being a great location for touring the D-Day landing locations, Trouville-sur-Mer also makes it simple to reach Le Havre.

• Location: North France
• Best for: An utterly charming seaside resort

• What to do: Beach, shopping at flea markets

The current leader in this voyage along the French coast map is Honfleur. Discover France in this beautiful town in its everyday, unassuming form. At the point where the Seine River empties into the English Channel, Honfleur is situated. One of the town's main draws is undoubtedly the harbor, which dates to the sixteenth century.

The lateral town's architectural embezzlement, honest air, and unadulterated human interactions provide the impression of a gospel-filled rural area that is frozen in time. Another chapter from the town's lengthy history may be found in the Saint Catherine's Church, which dates to the fifteenth century.

The guest is often amazed by the spectacular atmosphere at the beaches or the unexpected greenery of the seashore Botanical Gardens in Honfleur. It's understandable why Monet invested months and years in adoring and bringing to life on paint the genuine feelings of Honfleur. Instead of traveling to Honfleur as a tourist, visit as a native who is enchanted by the town's eerie beauty.

• Location: North France
• Best for: A traditional French beach town
  

• What to do: Visit Satie House and Museum, visit a Calvados shop

Marseille is another French seaside town option that merits praise, whether you call it a township or a metropolis. It is not only a magnificent historical site with forts and museums, but it also appears as though nature painted the town herself. Whether you go for a strenuous diving session or a stroll along the familiar, humid beaches, the experience inspires us to improve ourselves. Another draw of Les Calanques is its turquoise ocean, which has some gorgeous spots for picnics and beach parties.

Of course, Marseille is ideally situated on the Mediterranean. Even though it's a lot less expensive than affluent Cannes or Saint-Tropez, it earns its reputation as one of the top beach cities in France very properly. In terms of population, Marseille is actually France's second-largest city. There is, as you might anticipate, a lot to see and do.

By visiting places like the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations or by simply exploring the various historic neighborhoods, you may feed your hunger for culture. Instead, you can take advantage of one of the broad, family-friendly beaches. There are also fantastic diving locations to find. However, Marseille is sure to deliver if you're seeking to party.

• Location: Southern France
• Best for: Large sandy beaches & a lively atmosphere

• What to do: Old Port, Visit MuCEM

One of the most picturesque places to visit in Normandy is Etretat, which is situated in the Seine-Maritime region 20 kilometers north of Le Havre. As one of the most visitor-friendly towns in the region, Etretat, would undoubtedly be mentioned if someone asks about the nicest beaches in French coastal towns.

The limestone cliffs that define Etretat are a bizarre example of nature's peculiar changes. This village offers one of the nicest outdoor beach days in all of France due to the cliffs' erosion and the call of the distant sea. The most breathtaking view may be found in Etretat along the Alabaster Coast, which stretches for at least 140 kilometers from Dieppe to Le Havre. Etretat, one of France's best seaside villages, with a modest pebble beach and two enormous white chalk cliffs on either end.

Additionally, it boasts charming Anglo-Norman half-timbered cottages and charming tiny eateries with a wonderful assortment of fresh fish and seafood. Don't miss the Gardens of Etretat, an intriguing fusion of landscape art and sculptures, and Notre Dame de la Garde cathedral, located at the top of the cliff, if you wish to mix a pleasant seaside vacation with some sightseeing.

• Location: Northern France
  
• Best for: Breathtaking chalk cliffs
  

• What to do: Explore the caves, cliffs

Northern France excels at providing a potent fusion of rich cultural history and breathtaking natural beauty. Saint-Malo is a prime illustration of this. Saint-Malo is the ideal synthesis of historical significance and spectacular natural beauty indeed. The settlement was actually constructed during the Celtic era and dates back to that time before it was conquered by the Romans.

A monastery was subsequently erected on the same site by monks as the history book turned. In fact, the defense headland that was constructed in the 12th century to safeguard the town against the Vikings still stands today. There are two things that you simply must do when in Saint-Malo: tour the city's walls and take a trip to the Grand Aquarium. You will also feel at home here if you like rock pooling and crabbing.

• Location: Northern France
• Best for: History & culture
  

• What to do: Saint Malo Walls, check out Grand Aquarium Saint Malo

If you arrive in Dieppe or Calais, you probably leave right away, but it's worthwhile to travel to Ault. It is surely not to be missed because it is traditionally French, off the beaten tourist path, and distinguished by its white cliffs. You may savor French seafood prepared for locals rather than tourists here, and you'll also be treated to stunning landscape.

Ault, one of France's most stunning coastal towns, is another hidden gem that is near to Dieppe. This small town doesn't emphasize ostentatious extravagance in its design; rather, its white cliffs, beaches, and traditionalism add to its allure. Life doesn't get any better than this, so purchase a tiny bicycle and ride around town with a content heart. Ault is filled with life and laughter thanks to the charming alleyways, laneways, and byways, each of which has a tale to tell.

• Location: Northern France
• Best for: Less tourists
  

• What to do: Visit Liberty Park, Fall Festival and International Food Fest

Without properly mentioning Biarritz, it would be hard to compile a list of the top coastal cities in France. Biarritz, which is jolting up to the Spanish border, has a fascinating history that dates back to 1854 and is filled with tales of monarchy and rulers.

There is a subtle blending of French and Spanish traits here as a result of its proximity to Spain. The cuisine is just one of many ways that this is demonstrated. The broad sandy beaches at Biarritz are well known. On the Atlantic coast, though, this is unquestionably a surfer's heaven. In fact, there is a surfing event in July every year that draws large numbers.

Biarritz is known for its refinement, and it appears to be just as in style today as it did when Napoleon III initially promoted the resort to tourists. Make sure you stay in one of the fantastic boutique hotels and take a stroll down the promenade that connects the two main beaches. Visit a thalassotherapy facility for a unique spa experience and feel your aches and pains disappear thanks to the usage of seawater, algae, and mud!

• Location: South-Western France
• Best for: Surfing spots
  

• What to do: Visit Port des Pecheurs, Biarritz Lighthouse and Aquarium de Biarritz

Without mentioning Corsica, a list of the top French seaside towns would be incomplete. French-speaking Corsica, which is close to Italy, has some of the most beautiful seaside villages that can rival those found on the mainland. One such village is Pigna, which is one of the best French Mediterranean beach towns and is perched right next to the Mediterranean Sea. At Pigna, the mountains descend to meet the beaches, and the atmosphere is calm.

Pigna in the gorgeous Mediterranean Sea, and is regarded as one of the nicest and most beautiful coastal towns in France. Pigna is unique due to its line of mountains that descend to its white sand beaches. The sound of the wind blowing and the rural simplicity are exactly what our everyday lives require. It is breathtakingly gorgeous, and the only way to appreciate it is to accept and rationalize viewpoints as you traverse the expanses of Pigna's smiling fields.

• Location: Corsica
• Best for: A relaxing Mediterranean beach town
  

• What to do: Attend a concert at Centre Culturel Voce and be stunned by the architecture

Visit Martigues to witness the river's motionless course of action as its tributaries and distributaries ultimately merge into one. The streets of this village are cut by meandering canals that empty into the Etang de Berre Lake. Since this lake flows into the sea, Martigues is a unique tourist destination. Overall, fishing is the main form of trade in this town.

But the history dates back a long way, to when it was all just a Roman barrack before becoming an independent county in the middle of the 12th century. Each of the chapels and churches in this town has a unique tale to tell. The adjacent La Couronne, which features one of the region's most gorgeous beaches, may be reached by renting a car.

Around the beaches are a variety of leisure options, including quaint cafes and restaurants, markets with shopping, and other attractions. But lounging by the sea with a pint of beer, a nice game of volleyball, and some good company is the perfect way to soak up Martigues' hot sun.

• Location: Southern France
• Best for: Rich cultural heritage
  

• What to do: Visit Cote Bleue and a fine art museum Musee Ziem

On Corsica Island's Cap Corse, Erbalunga is a lovely old village. Erbalunga is a very small village that can be explored quickly, but the combination of the charming old district and the pristine port makes it a well-liked and intriguing destination. The best place to start your visit is in the center of Erbalunga, near to the main road, where there is a sizable parking lot.

Erbalunga will be the first village you come across if you begin your Corsica road trip from Bastia. A charming marina, winding lanes, and colorful homes can be found in the small, typical village of Erbalunga, which was established on a wonderful position. The remains of a Genoese tower are also protected as a historical site. On a rock at the port's entrance, the tower was constructed in the sixteenth century.

Le Pirate, one of Corsica's most recognized restaurants, is situated at the harbor of Erbalunga, so make sure to reserve a table in advance. Although it is quite pricey, you receive the finest Corsican food. Don't miss Erbalunga's renowned Music Festival, which is held in August and is only devoted to French and Corsican performers.

• Location: Corsica Island
• Best for: Coastal walk, Relax , Sunbath , Sightseeing, Gastronomy
  

• What to do: center of Erbalunga,

Brittany's Cancale features a lovely harbor and is well known throughout the world for its oysters. The sandy beach is lovely, not the least of which is the stunning views of Mont-Saint-Michel. There are many hiking routes nearby, but you may instead spend the day on the beach constructing sand castles.

As mentioned above, Cancale, located on the coast of Brittany in Western France, a famous place for its oysters obviously has some things to the region. Beautiful classic homes, a lovely sand beach, and breath-taking views of the bay of Mont-Saint-Michel in Normandy can be found behind the town's charming harbour.

Cancale is a stop on the well-known multi-day hike known as the GR34 Sentier des Douaniers (ancient customs officer's trail), which follows the Breton coast. Along this route, you can anticipate admirable scenery, quiet beaches, and other stunning French coastal towns.

• Location: Brittany
• Best for: World-renowned oysters
  

• What to do: Manoir des Douets Fleuris (top choice), Lagrange Vacances Les Hauts de la Houle (mid-range), La Mère Champlain (budget), L’Arrière Cour (apartments).

One of Northern France's most picturesque beach towns is Barfleur. This adorable small town in the Normandy department of Manche includes quaint granite cottages, a lovely fishing port, and a fortified church with the unique features of an octagonal domed chapel and an arrowless bell tower.

Don't pass up the chance to see how locals live by missing the fish arrival on the port's dock. The town of Barfleur is the ideal location if you enjoy mussels. Barfleur's mussels are caught in the eastern part of the Cotentin Peninsula, but the majority of France's mussels come from cattle. One of the favorite joys in Barfleur is to have mussels and white wine in one of the port's little restaurants.

Barfleur, one of the major fishing ports in the Middle Ages, is today the point of departure for nobs from Normandy traveling to England. If you're looking for beauty and tranquillity all in one place, you must visit Barfleur, a little, charming, and peaceful fishing village on the tip of the Contenin peninsula. It's a cool way to enter the east shore of Contentin.

• Location: Northwestern France
• Best for: Fresh mussels & a view

• What to do: St. Nicolas Church and Gatteville Lighthouse

One of the most vibrant beach towns in the South of France is Villefranche-sur-Mer. It is conveniently accessible as a day trip from Nice and is situated between Nice and Saint Jean Cap Ferrat. The French Riviera's Villefranche is one of the billionaires' favorite destinations in the globe!

Take a stroll around the port, one of the most attractive in the Mediterranean and the starting point of many summer excursions, with its colorful vessels. Visit the 16th-century Citadel that overlooks the water after that, and take in the Old Town's winding staircases, winding streets, and colorful homes. Don't miss the beautiful Chapelle Saint-Pierre, which writer and director Jean Cocteau renovated.

Of course, Nice is among the nicest beach towns on the French Riviera, but if you travel a little further, you'll come across the magnificent Villefranche-sur-Mer. This charming coastal village, which is deserving of attention on its own, makes it onto my list since it is conveniently located near the bustle of Nice and the wild retreat of Cap Ferrat. There is little doubt that riches and elegance define this town. With colorful boats bobbing up and down in the turquoise Mediterranean, the port adds to the rainbow of colors.

A stroll through the Old Town's tiny stairways and winding lanes is highly recommended. Both the Chapelle Saint-Pierre and the Citadel from the sixteenth century are worthwhile stops. The natural beaches and vast forests of Cap Ferrat are easily accessible from Villefranche-sur-Mer. Spend some time enjoying the sights and laid-back atmosphere.

• Location: Northwestern France
• Best for: Sophisticated lifestyle and colourful buildings
  

• What to do: Jardin Exotique and Sante Barbe Chapel