Plage des Catalans
Marseille's accessible sandy city beach, perfect for sunbathing, volleyball, and enjoying sea views near the Old Port.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space
Plage des Catalans
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Marseille's accessible sandy city beach, perfect for sunbathing, volleyball, and enjoying sea views near the Old Port.
"A small, beautifully situated sandy city beach, totally full but nice."
🎯 Easy City Access
Just a 15-min walk from the port, it's super convenient!
🚿 Free Facilities
Enjoy free toilets, showers, and changing rooms. Bring your own towel!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sandy Shores
Main beach area
Enjoy the rare sandy beach experience in Marseille, perfect for sunbathing and relaxing by the Mediterranean.

Beach Volleyball Courts
Designated courts
Join a game or watch the action on the sand volleyball courts, adding a sporty vibe to your beach day.

City Views
Along the promenade
Take in picturesque views of the Frioul Islands and boats from the benches overlooking the water.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at Plage des Catalans
Accessibility & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Beaches in the city
🎯 Easy City Access
Just a 15-min walk from the port, it's super convenient!
🚿 Free Facilities
Enjoy free toilets, showers, and changing rooms. Bring your own towel!
🏐 Sports Fun
Plenty of beach volleyball action to join or watch. :volleyball:
☀️ Sun Protection
The sun can be intense; bring sunscreen and a hat. :sunwithface:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Easy City Access
Just a 15-min walk from the port, it's super convenient!
🚿 Free Facilities
Enjoy free toilets, showers, and changing rooms. Bring your own towel!
🏐 Sports Fun
Plenty of beach volleyball action to join or watch. :volleyball:
☀️ Sun Protection
The sun can be intense; bring sunscreen and a hat. :sunwithface:
🔒 Secure Your Belongings
While generally safe, be mindful of your belongings, especially when swimming. :lock:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Plage des Catalans is a beloved, easily accessible sandy beach in Marseille, praised for its convenient location and free amenities like showers and toilets. Visitors appreciate the lively atmosphere and the opportunity for beach volleyball, though its small size means it can get very crowded, making it difficult to find space during peak times.
"A small, beautifully situated sandy city beach."
Piotr Treter
"The beach was totally full but nice sad. Nice light. Felt safe. Place to lock your phone. Showers and toilets. Life guards. Warm sea. Slight breeze. Kids having fun. Beach volleyball in the background. Wonderful few hours."
Stephen Baldwin
"A lot of people, but there was place to lay. I liked free WC and possibility to shower or wash legs"
Slávka Pavlovová
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Plage des Catalans is conveniently located about a 15-minute walk from the Old Port (Vieux Port) of Marseille. You can also easily reach it via public transport, with several bus lines stopping nearby.
Yes, it is very accessible by public transport. Several bus routes serve the area, making it a convenient option for visitors without a car.
During the busy summer months, taking public transport or walking is often easier than driving due to potential traffic and limited parking. Arriving early in the morning is also recommended.
While there might be some street parking, it can be very limited, especially during peak season. Paid parking lots are available in the vicinity, but walking or using public transport is generally advised.
Yes, cycling is a great option. There are usually places to lock up bikes near the beach, offering a pleasant way to arrive and enjoy the coastal path. :bike:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Plage des Catalans is a public beach and entry is free for everyone. You only pay for any optional services or concessions. :moneywithwings:
As a public beach, Plage des Catalans is generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. Lifeguard services operate during specific hours, typically in the summer season. :clock1:
No booking is required as it's a free public beach. However, arriving early is highly recommended, especially during peak season, to secure a good spot.
Generally, there are no specific entry restrictions beyond standard public space rules. However, during very crowded times, access might be managed for safety. Pets may have restrictions depending on the season. :dog:
To avoid the biggest crowds, aim for weekday mornings, especially outside of the main summer holidays. Visiting in the shoulder seasons (spring or early autumn) is also a good strategy.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The beach offers free public toilets, changing rooms, and showers for rinsing off. Lifeguards are present during the summer season, and there are designated areas for beach volleyball.
Yes, Plage des Catalans is one of the few sandy beaches within Marseille's city limits, making it a popular choice for sunbathers.
The beach is generally safe for swimming, with lifeguards on duty during the summer. The water is typically warm, and the sea is relatively calm.
Absolutely! There are dedicated beach volleyball courts available for public use. It's a great way to add some activity to your beach day. :volleyball:
It's a lively and busy city beach, popular with locals and tourists alike. Expect a vibrant atmosphere, especially during summer weekends, with families and groups enjoying the sun and sea.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there aren't extensive dining facilities directly on the beach itself, there are usually kiosks or small cafes nearby offering snacks and drinks. For more options, the city center is a short walk away. :ice_cream:
Yes, bringing your own picnic is a great idea! Many visitors pack their own lunches and snacks to enjoy on the sand. Just remember to clean up after yourself. :sandwich:
For excellent seafood, head towards the Old Port area, which is a short walk or bus ride away. You'll find numerous restaurants offering fresh catches of the day. :fish_cake:
Typically, you'll find small vendors or kiosks selling ice cream, cold drinks, and light snacks during the warmer months. :soda:
The beach itself is the primary picnic spot. You can also find benches along the promenade offering lovely sea views for a relaxed meal. :picnic_table:
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the sandy beach with the Mediterranean Sea, the distant islands, and the bustling activity of beachgoers. The promenade offers great vantage points for panoramic shots. :camerawithflash:
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful soft light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing the vibrant energy of the beach. :sunriseovermountains:
You can get lovely shots of the Frioul Islands and the boats in the harbor. The city skyline provides a backdrop, especially from the western end of the beach. :cityscape:
Drone usage is often restricted in urban areas and near coastlines for safety and privacy reasons. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone. :drone:
It's ideal for casual beach photography, lifestyle shots, and capturing the urban beach vibe. The sandy expanse and sea views are great for relaxed vacation photos. :beachwithumbrella:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Arrive early to get a good spot, as it can get crowded. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, or be prepared for a short walk to nearby cafes. Consider bringing beach toys for sandcastle building and water play. The beach volleyball courts can be fun for older kids to watch or participate in if space allows.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Its central location means you can easily walk or take affordable public transport to get there, avoiding taxi fares. It's a perfect spot to enjoy a sunny day in Marseille without spending a euro, offering a quintessential Mediterranean experience on a shoestring.
🏃 Day-Trippers
Make the most of your visit: Pack light, as you can utilize the free showers and changing rooms to freshen up before continuing your exploration. Enjoy a quick swim, relax on the sand, and soak in the coastal atmosphere before heading back to explore more of Marseille's attractions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Plage des Catalans: Your Beach Day Guide
Key amenities include free public toilets, changing rooms, and showers, which are a significant plus for a city beach. Lifeguards are on duty during the peak season, ensuring a safer swimming experience. The presence of beach volleyball courts adds an active dimension, inviting visitors to participate or simply enjoy the energetic atmosphere. Despite its size, the beach offers a pleasant environment for relaxation and recreation.
When planning your visit, consider arriving early, particularly on weekends or during July and August, to secure a good spot. Weekday mornings are often the least crowded. The beach offers lovely views of the Frioul Islands, making it a picturesque setting for a casual day out. While dining options directly on the beach are limited to small kiosks, the proximity to the city center means plenty of restaurants are just a short stroll away.
Beyond the Sand: Activities and Views at Plage des Catalans
Photography enthusiasts will find plenty of charm here. The interplay of light on the water, the distant islands, and the lively beach scene creates a dynamic visual experience. Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) is particularly magical, casting a warm glow over the sand and sea. Even during the day, the vibrant colors of beach umbrellas and the clear blue water make for great snapshots. Remember to capture the unique perspective of a city beach nestled so close to urban life. :camerawithflash:
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit