Golden sand, wild nature, family-friendly swimming and endless Mediterranean horizons — the beaches of the Côte du Midi are among Southern France's most beautiful coastal escapes. Less than 20 minutes from Narbonne, you'll discover preserved natural landscapes, charming seaside villages and kilometres of unspoilt shoreline.
Why Visit the Beaches of the Côte du Midi?
Unlike many Mediterranean resorts, the coastline around Narbonne has remained remarkably authentic.
Protected natural parks, lagoons, dunes and long sandy beaches create a landscape where nature still takes centre stage. The sea is easily accessible, parking is generally straightforward, and every beach has its own personality.
From lively family beaches to secluded stretches surrounded by wild scenery, the Côte du Midi offers something for every traveller.
1. Plage des Chalets, Gruissan
Best for: Families, iconic scenery, restaurants and water sports
No beach symbolises Gruissan more than Plage des Chalets. Its famous wooden stilt houses inspired the film 37°2 le matin and have become one of the region's most photographed locations.
The beach itself stretches for several kilometres with soft sand and shallow waters that make it ideal for families.
Distance from Narbonne: 20 minutes
- Beach restaurants
- Ice cream shops
- Paddleboard and kayak rentals
- Lifeguards during summer
- Beautiful sunsets over the Mediterranean
2. Plage de Mateille
Best for: Calm waters and young children
Located just north of Gruissan, Plage de Mateille is quieter than the Chalets beach while remaining very accessible. The sheltered bay creates gentle swimming conditions, making it particularly popular with families.
- Walking paths
- Kitesurf schools
- Picnic areas
- Views over the Clape Massif
3. Plage de Vieille Nouvelle
Best for: Wild nature and tranquillity
For visitors searching for untouched Mediterranean landscapes, Vieille Nouvelle is one of the hidden gems of the Côte du Midi.
Access requires a short walk, but the reward is one of the most natural beaches in Occitanie. Bring water, sun protection and everything you need for the day.
- No large buildings
- No beach clubs
- Endless dunes
- Exceptional birdlife
- Peaceful surroundings
4. Narbonne-Plage
Best for: Traditional seaside holidays
Narbonne-Plage combines a lively resort atmosphere with one of the widest beaches in the region.
The promenade is perfect for a sunset stroll before enjoying dinner overlooking the sea.
- Children's playgrounds
- Restaurants
- Ice cream parlours
- Beach clubs
- Evening markets during summer
5. Plage de Saint-Pierre-la-Mer
Best for: Families and local atmosphere
Located between Narbonne-Plage and Fleury, Saint-Pierre-la-Mer remains one of the locals' favourite beaches. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for spending an entire day by the sea.
- A large daily market during summer
- Calm swimming areas
- Beach cafés
- Watersports
- Beautiful coastal walks
6. Plage des Ayguades
Best for: Relaxation and long walks
Less crowded than the main beaches of Gruissan, Les Ayguades offers kilometres of open coastline where you can enjoy the Mediterranean at a slower pace. It is particularly appreciated by visitors looking to:
- Read by the sea
- Walk along the shoreline
- Watch kite surfers
- Escape the busiest summer crowds
Nature Between Sea and Lagoons
One of the greatest strengths of the Côte du Midi is the extraordinary diversity of its landscapes. Within just a few kilometres, you can experience:
- Mediterranean beaches
- Salt lagoons
- Flamingos
- Pine forests
- Vineyards
- The limestone cliffs of La Clape
Which Beach Should You Choose?
This unique combination makes the Narbonne coastline unlike anywhere else in southern France. Here's a quick guide to help you pick the right spot for your day:
- Families with children → Plage des Chalets
- Calm swimming → Mateille
- Wild nature → Vieille Nouvelle
- Restaurants & cafés → Narbonne-Plage
- Local atmosphere → Saint-Pierre-la-Mer
- Peace and long walks → Les Ayguades
Staying Near the Beaches
One of the advantages of staying in Narbonne is enjoying both the historic city centre and the Mediterranean coast.
In less than 20 minutes, you can spend the morning exploring Roman heritage, shopping at Les Halles market or enjoying a café beside the Canal de la Robine before heading to the beach for the afternoon.
This balance between culture, gastronomy and nature is one of the reasons so many visitors choose Narbonne as their base for discovering the Côte du Midi.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best beach near Narbonne?
Plage des Chalets in Gruissan is often considered the most iconic thanks to its famous stilt houses, wide sandy beach and family-friendly atmosphere.
Are the beaches suitable for children?
Yes. Narbonne-Plage, Plage des Chalets and Mateille all offer shallow swimming areas and are particularly well suited to families.
Which beach is the quietest?
Vieille Nouvelle is the most natural and least developed beach, perfect for visitors looking for tranquillity.
How far are the beaches from Narbonne?
Most beaches along the Côte du Midi can be reached within 15 to 25 minutes by car.
Can you visit several beaches in one day?
Absolutely. Thanks to the short distances between Gruissan, Narbonne-Plage and Saint-Pierre-la-Mer, it's easy to explore several beaches during the same day.
Discover the Côte du Midi at Your Own Pace
Whether you're seeking a lively seaside atmosphere, peaceful natural landscapes or memorable family moments, the beaches around Narbonne and Gruissan offer some of the finest coastal experiences in Occitanie.
From the iconic chalets of Gruissan to the untouched dunes of Vieille Nouvelle, every beach reveals a different side of the Mediterranean — authentic, preserved and endlessly inviting.