France Summer Holidays: Best Coastal Destinations to Visit in 2026!

The country has 2000 miles of coastline, which leaves the travellers mesmerised and undoubtedly enhances the beauty of this Schengen gem. Around 9.3 million travelers visit France from the UK each year, which makes the UK one of the biggest source markets for French tourism. But what calls them back to have France summer holidays is the beautiful coastline of this country.  

Whether it’s vacationing in Northern France coastal towns like Etretat or coastal cities in Southern France such as Marseilles – it’s fair to say you’re spoilt for choice. Coastal towns are perfect for a cosy, peaceful, and relaxing getaway. If you are searching for France summer holiday destinations 2026 and the beaches, this guide is for you. 

Choose the one that matches your travel style and see what soothes your soul—sunbathe, shop, dine, or surf! And also, if you are a UK traveller, then navigating the visa requirements is also important for you. If you are eligible, then you can get professional assistance from us and your France tourist visa from UK on time. 

Best coastal destinations to visit in France in 2026

Trouville-sur-Mer

This place is best known as a charming seaside resort, and you’ll find Deauville St. Gatien as the nearest airport. This is one of the best Northern France coastal towns, where the beaches are backed by lush green hills. For the UK travellers it is easily accessible if they head over the Channel from the UK by car. This is among the most visited romantic coastal destinations in France.

Saint-Malo

The beaches of Saint Malo are among the best beaches in France and also among the most beautiful beaches in the world. This Corsair City is said to be one of the jewels and is known for its history & culture. Dinard-Pleurtuit is the nearest port to this destination, and you can definitely add this to your 2026 France summer holidays. And yes, must-see places are Saint-Malo walls and the Grand Aquarium. 

Honfleur 

For your next France summer holidays, this is a must-visit place. And you’ll find the nearest airport at Deauville St. Gatien. This summer destination in Normandy is definitely a place where you’ll find everything traditional. At this place, the Seine meets the sea, and you’ll watch those beautiful alleys around. Here you can explore the Sainte Catherine church and the Chapel Notre Dame de Grace. 

Our Lady Beach 

The beach of “Notre Dame de Porquerolles,” is located on the island of Hyères. An interesting fact is that this beach is awarded with the title of “most beautiful beach in Europe”, and that’s the reason UK travellers always want to spend their vacations here. The blue waters and hot sand here are definitely perfect!  

Ault 

Searching for a peaceful coastal town for your next France summer holidays? Ault is the place for you! This place witnesses fewer tourists because of its lower popularity, and the nearest airport to this is Rouen. Traditionally French and boasting those white cliffs, this place must not be missed during French vacations. 

Etretat 

Another coastal destination to add to your France summer holidays is Etretat. Travellers love this place for its breathtaking chalk cliffs. This is a coastal town where you’ll find plenty of photogenic spots as you amble along the small pebble beaches. Those who love architecture can explore the half-timbered houses in the Anglo-Norman style. Being here, don’t miss the seafood and fish! 

Barfleur 

Thinking about where to spend summer in France? Barfleur is the place! This is a beautiful coastal town in Normandy, Northern France. Apart from relaxing at the beach, UK travellers can visit the nearby tourist places like the fortified church and even try bike trips. 

Antibes 

Among the most preferred summer activities in France is enjoying the beach. And among the list of the best beaches, Antibes is also one. This is a charming coastal town that is located in the French Riviera. For the day trips, this town is perfect, and travellers love visiting the Plage de la Gravette. The charming atmosphere of this coastal place really attracts the travellers. And yes, being here, don’t miss visiting the famous Picasso Museum. 

Must Read: Budget Travel in France 2026: Affordable Cities, Stays, Transport & Activities

Summer weather in France (June- August) 

Coastal Town	Average Day Temperature	Sea Temperature
Trouville-sur-Mer	19–23°C	17–19°C
Saint-Malo	19–24°C	16–19°C
Honfleur	20–24°C	17–19°C
Our Lady Beach	26–30°C	22–25°C
Ault	18–23°C	17–18°C
Étretat	19–23°C	17–19°C
Barfleur	18–22°C	17–18°C

How to reach these France coastal destinations? 

These are some of the best French Coast for summer holidays to visit in 2026. If you have finally applied for your France Schengen visa from UK, then you might be planning during this period where to visit and how to reach these coastal towns. 

Destination	Region in France	Approx. Distance from London*	Nearest Airport with UK Connections
Trouville-sur-Mer	Normandy	330 km	Deauville–Normandie Airport
Saint-Malo	Brittany	450 km	Rennes–Saint-Jacques Airport
Honfleur	Normandy	340 km	Deauville–Normandie Airport
Our Lady Beach	Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur	1,100 km	Toulon–Hyères Airport
Ault	Hauts-de-France	220 km	Paris Beauvais Airport
Étretat	Normandy	320 km	Deauville–Normandie Airport
Barfleur	Normandy	340 km	Caen–Carpiquet Airport

How to get France visa appointment from UK?

After planning your France coastal road trip, travellers from the UK must understand the visa requirements. Being a Schengen country, there may be some visa rules imposed on UK residents, so it is important to know whether to apply or not. 

As per the Schengen rules, UK citizens can enter and stay in France for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa, whereas UK residents may be required to apply for France Schengen visa from London or any other UK city. 

If you are a non-EU national and residing in Uk with UK eVisa/share code, then your nationality decides whether you need the France Schengen visa or not. To know the eligibility, get professional help from FRANCE VISA ASSISTANCE. Here is the quick and easy process to submit the visa form:

1. Fill out the France visa application form and submit it by paying the service charges. 
2. Experts will book your France visa appointment at the centre. 
3. Visit the centre to get your documents verified and register the biometrics. 
4. Your France visa will be processed within 10-15 working days

Final Thoughts on France summer holidays  

In conclusion, France summer holidays are full of coastal trips and beach mode ON. You can only make a difference by imagining yourself on the French coastline and relaxing on that sand by actually visiting there and seeing why it is the best in the world.  

Our guide clarified your confusion about picking the best coastal destinations in France and answered why they are famous. There is a big reason why travellers love going back to Biarritz, La Rochelle, and Saint-Malo and plan their vacations here without thinking twice. If you are planning your next vacation in any of these French coastal destinations, then make sure to get assistance beforehand about the France tourist visa. If you require a visa, then simply submit the FORM with FRANCE VISA ASSISTANCE and leave the rest to us!  

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