
Plage de la Grande Mer Cassis
A stunning pebble beach in Cassis, France, boasting incredibly clear turquoise waters and breathtaking Mediterranean coastal views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid the crowds

Plage de la Grande Mer Cassis
Best Time
Avoid the crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning pebble beach in Cassis, France, boasting incredibly clear turquoise waters and breathtaking Mediterranean coastal views.
"Turquoise water, almost sandy (very small pebbles) beach, with friendly people and families. Highly recommend the visit and spending a relaxing day!"

🚗 Parking is Paid
Parking near the beach can be expensive. Consider public transport from Marseille to save money.
👟 Water Shoes Recommended
The beach is pebbly, so water shoes will make walking and swimming more comfortable.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crystal-Clear Turquoise Waters
The Mediterranean Sea
Dive into incredibly clear, inviting turquoise waters perfect for swimming and enjoying the Mediterranean sun.

Stunning Coastal Views
Along the shoreline
Soak in breathtaking views of the coastline and the charming town of Cassis.

Proximity to Calanques
Near the Calanques National Park
This beach serves as a fantastic starting point or endpoint for exploring the magnificent Calanques.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Arrive Early
Pebbles, Not Sand: Pack Accordingly
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking is Paid
Parking near the beach can be expensive. Consider public transport from Marseille to save money.
👟 Water Shoes Recommended
The beach is pebbly, so water shoes will make walking and swimming more comfortable.
💧 No Showers, Just Taps
There are no full showers, only taps for washing feet and legs after your swim.
🛶 Kayak Rentals Available
Rent a kayak to explore the nearby Calanques from the water.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking is Paid
Parking near the beach can be expensive. Consider public transport from Marseille to save money.
👟 Water Shoes Recommended
The beach is pebbly, so water shoes will make walking and swimming more comfortable.
💧 No Showers, Just Taps
There are no full showers, only taps for washing feet and legs after your swim.
🛶 Kayak Rentals Available
Rent a kayak to explore the nearby Calanques from the water.
☀️ Sunbeds for Hire
Limited sunbeds are available for rent if you prefer not to lay on the pebbles.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning turquoise waters and beautiful coastal views at Plage de la Grande Mer, often comparing it to the South of France. While it gets very crowded, the clear water and pleasant pebble beach make it a worthwhile destination. Some note the water can be cold and facilities are basic, but the overall experience is highly recommended for its natural beauty and relaxing atmosphere.
"Lovely place! From Marseille it was a 40min bus ride to Cassis (3.50€) then a short walk to the beach. Not sandy but the pebbles are very small so not hard to walk on it and comfortable to lay down. The water was perfect, very clear!
Beach was packed at 8-9am, lots of tourists but I saw a least 7 police person walking around the city and beach. It felt safe enough to go in for a swim while leaving my stuff behind as a solo traveler.
No shower to wash off after going for a swim, only a tap to wash your feet/legs.
There is a small shop to grab drinks and popsicle but quite expensive. But people were nice and spoke English. There’s is also a small area with sunbeds for hire"
Larissa Van
"gorgeous beach and surrounding areas but does get really busy. water was quite cold when we were there at the end of july"
Gabi (Gabi)
"My favorite beach in France! Awesome view and warm water. The infrastructure is unbeatable"
Juan Lima
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is to take a bus from Marseille to Cassis, which takes about 40 minutes and costs around 3.50€. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the beach.
You can also drive, but parking can be challenging and costly.Access by car is possible, but parking is paid and can be difficult to find, especially during peak season.
Many visitors opt for public transport from Marseille.Taking a train from Marseille to Cassis is a popular and scenic option, followed by a walk to the beach.
Buses are also a convenient and affordable choice.Access can be complicated for individuals with reduced mobility.
It's advisable to check specific accessibility details before your visit.Yes, Plage de la Grande Mer is conveniently located within walking distance from the town center of Cassis, making it easily accessible.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Plage de la Grande Mer is a public beach and does not require an entrance fee.
As a public beach, it is accessible at all hours. However, it's best to visit during daylight for safety and enjoyment.
There is no entry fee for Plage de la Grande Mer. It's a free public beach for everyone to enjoy.
While generally open, it's a non-supervised swimming area, so caution is advised.
During peak times, it can get very crowded.No, spots on the beach cannot be booked in advance. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is recommended.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
The beach is characterized by small pebbles rather than sand, with incredibly clear, turquoise waters.
It's a beautiful spot for swimming and relaxing.The water temperature can vary. While some reviews mention warm water, others found it quite cold at the end of July.
There are no full showers available, only taps for washing your feet and legs. Restrooms may be available in nearby establishments.
The beach is not supervised, so visitors should exercise caution.
However, many feel safe due to the visible police presence.Besides swimming and sunbathing, you can rent kayaks to explore the nearby Calanques.
The stunning views also make it great for photography.🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are small shops nearby where you can grab drinks and snacks like popsicles, though they can be a bit pricey.
Restaurants are also available in the town of Cassis.There's a small shop on the beach selling drinks and popsicles.
For a wider selection, you'll find more options in the town of Cassis.While there aren't designated picnic areas, many visitors bring their own food and find spots on the pebbles to enjoy a picnic.
Cassis offers a variety of restaurants and cafes, particularly around the port, serving local Provençal cuisine and fresh seafood.
Prices for drinks and snacks directly on the beach can be higher than in town.
Dining in Cassis town offers a range of price points.📸 📸 Photography
Capture the stunning turquoise waters, the unique pebble beach, and the panoramic views of the coastline and the town of Cassis.
The Calanques nearby also offer incredible photographic potential.Early morning or late afternoon offers beautiful lighting for photography, with softer light and fewer crowds.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and restrictions before flying a drone in the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views. A waterproof camera or phone case is useful for capturing shots in the clear water.
The view looking back towards the town of Cassis from the beach is a classic shot.
Exploring the nearby Calanques will provide even more dramatic photographic subjects.For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
💑 Couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Calanques from Cassis
For those who prefer hiking, there are numerous trails leading to and from the Calanques. A popular route involves a hike from Cassis, which can be challenging but incredibly rewarding with spectacular views. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, bring plenty of water, and check trail conditions before setting out. The Calanques are a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-see for anyone visiting the region.
When planning your Calanques adventure, consider the time of year. Summer can be very hot for hiking, and some areas may have access restrictions due to fire risk. Kayaking offers a refreshing way to experience the Calanques during warmer months. The sheer beauty and unique geology of the Calanques make them a highlight of any trip to the South of France.
Navigating Cassis and Beach Access
While the beach itself is easily accessible on foot, it's important to note that it's not ideal for those with significant mobility issues due to the pebbly terrain. Parking in Cassis can be a challenge, especially during the busy summer months, and is often paid. This makes public transportation a more convenient and often more economical choice for visitors.
Once at Plage de la Grande Mer, you'll find a small shop for essentials and sunbed rentals. The lack of full shower facilities means planning your post-swim rinse accordingly. The overall experience is one of natural beauty and a relaxed Mediterranean vibe, despite the crowds.
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