Top 5 Beaches in the Pyrénées-Orientales to Discover
Which coastline will you explore during your stay with us? The Pyrénées-Orientales department is full of hidden coves and long stretches of fine sandy beaches. From our campsite in Argelès-sur-Mer, access to the Mediterranean Sea is immediate and easy for the whole family. It’s the ideal starting point for getaways between sea and mountains. Ready for a seaside adventure? Discover our complete selection and book your seaside holiday today!!
Our selection of beaches in the Pyrénées-Orientales
| Beach | Location | Atmosphere / Features | Main Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Le Racou | Argelès-sur-Mer | Authentic fishing village, charming flowered cottages. | Kayaking, snorkeling, beach volleyball. |
| Anse de Paulilles | Port-Vendres | Protected site, former dynamite factory, vineyards. | Hiking, snorkeling (sea bream), photography. |
| Boramar | Collioure | Historic center, view of the Royal Castle. | Paddleboarding, art galleries, historical tours. |
| Le Lydia | Le Barcarès | Beached ocean liner, 1970s architecture. | Exhibitions, ShakaPark, music festival. |
| Plage de Sana | Banyuls-sur-Mer | Wild, peaceful, terraced vineyards. | Snorkeling (clear waters), coastal trail. |
Le Racou in Argelès-sur-Mer
Located south of Argelès, this Pyrénées-Orientales beach retains the charm of an authentic old fishing village. The fine sand meets the first rocks of the Côte Vermeille here. Swimming is supervised during the summer. Accessible for people with reduced mobility via tiralos available at the lifeguard station. Highlight: admire its sandy cottages separated by flower-lined paths! You can play beach volleyball on the sand or rent a sea kayak. Snorkeling lets you explore the aquatic life around the rocks. Children can enjoy a safe natural play area. Our tip: come early in the morning to easily find a parking spot. Nearby beach restaurants are perfect for a friendly lunch. Bring sandals, as the sand can get very hot under the sun. Access: this beach is 3 km from our campsite, about a 7-minute drive via the D81. Parking: free parking under the trees, 200 meters from the site.
Anse de Paulilles in Port-Vendres
This Pyrénées-Orientales beach is a true hidden gem nestled in the town of Port-Vendres, between Cap Béar and Cap Oullestrell. The site harmoniously combines preserved nature and industrial heritage. Swimming is supervised from late June to early September. Accessibility for people with reduced mobility is excellent thanks to the Tourism & Handicap label. Highlight: you can watch the restoration workshop of Catalan boats right before your eyes! The site also once hosted a dynamite factory established by Alfred Nobel. Today, you can visit 7 of the 32 factory buildings. Bring your snorkeling mask to explore the posidonia seagrass meadows and spot sea bream. Anse de Paulilles invites relaxation and contemplation. Trails wind through vineyards and the old factory buildings, delighting hikers. Our tips to make the most of the site during your stay at a campsite near Port-Vendres? Bring your camera, as this beach remains a magical place for photographers. Access: this Pyrénées-Orientales beach is 14 km from our campsite via the D914. Parking: a 260-space parking lot welcomes visitors for free.
Boramar Beach in Collioure
Located in the heart of the famous village, this Pyrénées-Orientales beach offers breathtaking views of the Royal Castle. Swimming is supervised during the season. Highlight: the stunning view of the church bell tower, which once served as the town’s lighthouse! The light here inspired painters Matisse and Derain at the beginning of the last century. This is the birthplace of Fauvism, a major art movement born in this port. There is no shortage of activities in this historic French town. The tourist mini-train takes you up to the surrounding forts. Art galleries and anchovy shops line the adjacent streets. You can rent paddleboards or kayaks to explore the bay. Visiting the Royal Castle is a must after a swim. Our tips? Bring water shoes for walking on the pebbles. The local Wednesday morning market is a true slice of Catalan life and should not be missed during your stay at a campsite near Collioure. Access: this beach is 7 km from the campsite, about a 15-minute drive via the D114. Parking: parking in the town center can be difficult in summer. We recommend the Cap Dourats parking lot and its free shuttle.
Le Lydia Beach in Le Barcarès
At the far north of the department, like a prelude to the pleasures of the coast, this beach stretches long ribbons of sand between the sea and the homes designed by Candilis, a 1970s architect. The site is fully accessible for people with reduced mobility, with amphibious wheelchairs available. Swimming is supervised from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. during the summer. Highlight: this beach takes its name from the Lydia, a former ocean liner set directly on the sand, commanding attention. The ship reflects its history and gives the site an immediately recognizable identity. You can explore exhibitions inside this sea giant. The more athletic visitors can head to ShakaPark nearby. The Alley of Arts features surprising sculptures along the shore. Our camping tips? The Electrobeach Festival turns the beach into a giant dance floor in July. Visit the Christmas market for a magical winter atmosphere. Access: this Pyrénées-Orientales beach is located 34 km from our campsite.
Sana Beach in Banyuls-sur-Mer
Nestled at the entrance of the town, this is a fine sandy beach at the foot of the vineyards, remaining wild and peaceful all year round. Highlight: the terraced vineyards that seem to plunge into the Mediterranean! Snorkeling is the main activity here thanks to the crystal-clear waters. The coastal trail connects Sana to the port of Port-Vendres. Our tips for making the most of your visit? Bring a picnic for a full day in nature. The Biodiversarium in the town center perfectly complements your visit. Access: this beach is 14 km from our campsite. Each Pyrénées-Orientales beach has its own unique charm. From wild coves to long sandy beaches, your holiday will be full of discoveries. Unsure about your itinerary? The team at our Les Pins campsite will guide you on site. Book now and enjoy the Pyrénées-Orientales beaches! Come experience this authentic adventure with us! Reserve your stay today!