Plage Notre-Dame Porquerolles
Europe's most beautiful beach, a pristine stretch of fine sand and turquoise waters on the car-free island of Porquerolles.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pristine waters
Plage Notre-Dame Porquerolles
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pristine waters
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Europe's most beautiful beach, a pristine stretch of fine sand and turquoise waters on the car-free island of Porquerolles.
"Voted Europe's best beach, its fine sand and turquoise waters are simply breathtaking."
🚲 Rent a Bike First
Essential for exploring the island and reaching the beach comfortably. :electric_plug:
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Limited services on the beach; bring your own provisions. :water_wave:
Quick Facts
Rating
4.6 · 1,266 reviews
Type
Beach
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Award-Winning Sands
Northern coast of Porquerolles
Voted Europe's best beach, its fine sand and turquoise waters are simply breathtaking.
+1
Crystal Clear Waters
Plage Notre-Dame
The water is incredibly clear, perfect for swimming and spotting marine life.
Scenic Bike Ride
Island of Porquerolles
A pleasant 45-minute walk or shorter bike ride from the port leads to this idyllic spot.
Abundant Marine Life
Plage Notre-Dame
Snorkeling here is amazing, with opportunities to see fish and even jellyfish.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds to Paradise
Island Essentials: Bikes & Bites
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚲 Rent a Bike First
Essential for exploring the island and reaching the beach comfortably. :electric_plug:
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Limited services on the beach; bring your own provisions. :water_wave:
🛡️ Beware of Horseflies
Horseflies can be present; be prepared and take precautions. :bug:
🤿 Bring Snorkel Gear
The clear waters offer fantastic snorkeling opportunities. 🌊
Tips
from all over the internet
🚲 Rent a Bike First
Essential for exploring the island and reaching the beach comfortably. :electric_plug:
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Limited services on the beach; bring your own provisions. :water_wave:
🛡️ Beware of Horseflies
Horseflies can be present; be prepared and take precautions. :bug:
🤿 Bring Snorkel Gear
The clear waters offer fantastic snorkeling opportunities. 🌊
☀️ Go Early for Space
Arrive before late morning to find a good spot on the beach. 🌅
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Plage Notre-Dame for its stunning, award-winning beauty, with crystal-clear turquoise waters and fine sand. Many highlight the enjoyable bike rides to reach the beach and the fantastic snorkeling opportunities. However, some note that it can get crowded, and the presence of horseflies can be a significant deterrent for some.
"My first observation is that the beach is not as quiet as some posters have written, there are plenty of people and it may not be easy to get a spot if you come in the late morning/early afternoon.
Secondly, the water is absolutely crystal clear and really beautiful, but what has sadly absolutely ruined our day there was the constant attacks of the horse flies."
Tamara Macanovic
"Beautiful beach with crystal clear waters and views. Many yachts and sailboats on the bay enjoy the site. Short bike ride from the port. It's definitely worth it if you are in the area as a day trip."
Walter Miguel
"Minimal stoney beach area runs the length of the bay qnd is well packed with visitors. Lovely 45m walk through along shady paths to get there from the harbour. Occasional ice cream vendor in his boat but best bring whatever refreshments you need for a day out."
Lynda Hirst
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You'll need to take a ferry from La Tour Fondue on the Giens peninsula (near Hyères) to the island of Porquerolles. The ferry ride is about 20-25 minutes.
Yes, there is paid parking available at La Tour Fondue, which is where the ferries depart from.
No, vehicles are not allowed on the island of Porquerolles, except for essential services. You'll need to walk or rent a bike.
Renting a bike is highly recommended for exploring the island and reaching Plage Notre-Dame. E-bikes are also available.
Plage Notre-Dame is approximately 3 km from the main port of Porquerolles. It takes about an hour to walk or 30 minutes by bike.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Plage Notre-Dame itself is a public beach and does not require an entrance fee. You will need to purchase a ferry ticket to reach the island of Porquerolles.
Ferry prices can vary, but typically an adult round-trip ticket costs around 24 Euros. It's advisable to check the latest prices with the ferry company.
The island of Porquerolles is a natural park and generally free to access. The main cost is the ferry ticket and any rentals on the island.
The island and Plage Notre-Dame are accessible year-round during daylight hours. Ferry services operate on a schedule, so check their timings.
It's often possible to book ferry tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, to save time.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire stretch of beach offers stunning views with its turquoise waters and surrounding pine trees. The bay is also beautiful for capturing yachts and sailboats.
While drone usage regulations can vary, the expansive views and natural beauty make it a potentially great spot for aerial photography if permitted. Always check local drone laws.
Early morning offers soft light and fewer people, ideal for serene shots. Late afternoon provides a warm, golden glow.
The Fondation Carmignac on the island often features exhibitions and is known for its art and photography, which could be of interest to photographers.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and sea. A polarizing filter can enhance the blues of the water and sky.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Amenities are minimal directly on the beach. It's best to bring your own food and drinks.
The main village of Porquerolles has several restaurants and cafes offering local cuisine.
Occasionally, an ice cream vendor might pass by in a boat, but it's not reliable. Plan to bring your own refreshments.
Expect Mediterranean flavors, with fresh seafood, Provençal specialties, and local wines.
While not designated picnic areas, the surrounding pine forests offer shaded spots for a picnic lunch.
🎫 🤿 Activities & Experiences
Swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling are the main activities. The clear waters are perfect for enjoying the Mediterranean.
Yes, the water is very clear and you can see fish and jellyfish. Be cautious of jellyfish stings.
While not directly on the beach, rentals like kayaks or paddleboards might be available from vendors on the island.
Besides Notre-Dame, consider Plage d'Argent and Plage du Langoustier for different coastal experiences.
Yes, Port-Cros is another beautiful island nearby, known for its natural park and diving opportunities.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit