By the Sea and the Beaches

The Catalans Beach: A Place Rich in History

The Catalans Beach is one of the most emblematic in Marseille, located just a few minutes from the city center. It is named after the Catalan fishermen who came to settle in the Phocean city in the 18th century. Once isolated and wild, it is now a popular spot for both Marseillais residents and tourists. This is where the Marseille Swimming Circle (CNM) has made its home, a renowned club that has been training swimming and water polo champions for nearly a century.

This spot is perfect for a seaside getaway: refreshment stands, showers, and a beach volleyball court are available. Early risers can watch the fishing boats return to the port while photography enthusiasts capture the exceptional view of the Frioul islands.

Catalans Beach
© nateya35

The Prophet Beach: A Family Atmosphere

Accessible by bus (line n°83), the Prophet Beach is unique in its kind. Located at the entrance of the Corniche Kennedy, this sandy beach primarily attracts families and groups of friends due to its shallow waters. Composed of two small coves, it is supervised, clean, and equipped with showers, toilets, and even snacks.

Prophet Beach
© marseille_secrete

This is where beach volleyball enthusiasts gather for heated matches, while children build sandcastles or enjoy the little natural pools created by the rocks. In the evening, the atmosphere changes completely, and the beach becomes a meeting place for picnics at sunset or lively evenings where locals gather with friends.

The Vallon des Auffes: A Picturesque Enclave

Nestled between the Corniche and the sea, this creek is a haven of peace. The Vallon des Auffes, once dedicated to cord makers who made fishing nets, is now a living postcard of Marseille with its fishermen’s huts and colorful fishing boats.

Vallon des Auffes
© matgrapeloup

The neighborhood is highly appreciated by food lovers, with renowned establishments such as “Chez Fonfon,” famous for its bouillabaisse, and “L’Epuisette,” a gourmet restaurant that offers stunning views of the Mediterranean. It is the perfect spot for a romantic stroll or a moment of relaxation at sunset.

The Anse de Malmousque: Between Sea and Winding Alleys

Anse de Malmousque
© siancriscuolo

Just steps from the Vallon des Auffes, the Anse de Malmousque is a small tranquil enclave, surrounded by narrow and steep alleys, where one easily gets lost. The typical houses, with their colorful facades, give this neighborhood a unique charm, while the rocky creeks are ideal for discreet swimming.

This swimming spot is popular with the locals, especially diving enthusiasts who find marine life rich in Mediterranean fauna here. Far from the hustle and bustle of large beaches, Malmousque is perfect for those seeking a moment of respite in a picturesque and less crowded setting.

The Corniche Kennedy: The Longest Bench in the World

Stretching over 5 km, the Corniche Kennedy is a must-see. It runs along the southern coast of Marseille, offering a spectacular view of the islands and the open sea. Strollers can sit on the longest concrete bench in the world, extending for nearly 3 km, to enjoy the panorama.

This stretch of road is also famous for its viaducts, built in the 19th century. It is a true paradise for joggers, cyclists, and fishing enthusiasts, with points of interest such as Château Valmer and the site of Roucas Blanc, offering a glimpse of luxury and heritage of the region.

Corniche Kennedy
© mon_marseille

The Prado Beaches: A Leisure Space by the Sea

The Prado beaches, built from landfill, are now a vast relaxation area of over 20 hectares. Featuring lawns, restaurants, and sports fields, they are popular for outdoor events such as the Music Festival and the Sosh Freestyle Cup.

Marseille Beaches
© eleonore_bizeul

It is also a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Kayaking, windsurfing, and kitesurfing clubs are established here. For families, the Vieille Chapelle beach offers calm areas where both young and old can enjoy fishing and summer barbecues.

The Pointe Rouge: Between Tradition and Modernity

The Pointe Rouge is a sandy beach that attracts families. Ideal for children with its supervision until 7 PM, it offers numerous shops and services. Along the avenue bordering the beach, pizzerias and artisanal ice cream shops provide delicious stops.

Pointe Rouge
© streetbysteph

The Pointe Rouge port, developed in 1974, is also the starting point for sea excursions to the calanques. It is a vibrant neighborhood where shops, nautical activities, and hidden coves mix, perfect for a day outdoors.

The Saména Beach: Tranquility and Wild Landscapes

Saména Beach
© Tourisme Marseille

Continuing along the coast, Saména Beach is a small cove that attracts nature lovers and those seeking peace. It is an isolated area, surrounded by rocks, that maintains a wild and authentic atmosphere.

The “Les Tamaris” restaurant, perched on a rock overlooking the sea, is perfect for enjoying traditional Mediterranean cuisine in an intimate and romantic setting. This slice of paradise is also favored by divers, who come to explore the underwater landscapes of the Mediterranean. Hikers can climb Mont Rose, a small summit offering breathtaking views of the Marseille harbor.

The Goudes and Callelongue: At the Gates of the Calanques

The small port of Goudes marks the end of the road and the entrance to the calanques. This authentic neighborhood is a paradise for divers, fishermen, and hikers. Allow yourself to be tempted by a walk on the surrounding paths or a seafood meal in one of the port’s restaurants, such as “La Baie des Singes.”

As you continue, you will arrive at Callelongue, a popular site for hikers due to its spectacular views and secret coves. It is a place of serenity and discovery for nature lovers.

Callelongue

The Vieille Chapelle Beach: A Place for Meeting and Sharing

The Vieille Chapelle beach, located in the Prado neighborhood, is a favorite spot for water sports enthusiasts. Here, fishermen rub shoulders with petanque players, and in the evening, impromptu barbecues gather locals for convivial moments. This rocky beach also offers a dive into the heart of Marseille culture, with petanque players, fresh fish markets, and family activities.

Vieille Chapelle Beach
© Tourisme Marseille

On the lawns surrounding the beach, sculptures and monuments such as “The Seven Gates of Jerusalem” add a cultural touch to this space, making it a place conducive to relaxation in the shade of the tall pines.

Getting to the Beaches and Coves of Marseille: Practical Tips

To explore these exceptional places, it is recommended to use public transport. The bus lines n° 83 and n° 54 allow for easy movement between the beaches, from the city center to Prado and Pointe Rouge. In summer, maritime shuttles connect the Old Port to the more distant beaches, an excellent option to discover the coast from another angle.

Marseille, with its beaches and coves, is a true Mediterranean gem. Enjoy these natural and heritage spaces that make this city a unique and unforgettable destination.

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