Mont-Saint-Michel and its environs are perfect locations for leisurely walks, a breath of fresh air, outdoor activities, and of course impeccable beaches. The island is in Normandy, which is about 650 km worth of incredible coastline. More to this are ivory cliffs, sandy shores, the spectacular history that the waters witnessed, and the beaches that will give the ones in southern France a run for their money.

While the weather may be slightly spotty and the waters near Mont-Saint-Michel may be brisk, do not let that hold you back from having the experience of your life on the area’s beaches. So here is an interesting list of some of the best beaches near Mont-Saint-Michel.

Arromanches-les-Bains

Arromanches-Les-Bains is a port town and was a significant local base in the June 6, 1944, D-Day landings. To mark its importance, visitors will see the Landing Museum that explains to guests the Normandy Invasion campaign. Visitors will also learn about Arromanches 360 that is a round cinema that looks over Mulberry Harbor. The cinema presents a film with unique footage from Second World War. Alongside its gripping history, Arromanches’ long swath of sandy beach gives time to enjoy the sun or take a dip in the water after a history session.

Ravenoville

Ravenoville is a small commune that is home to just 270 residents. Ravenoille-Plage and Ravenoille-Bourg are the two divisions of the commune. The first is famous for its beach and the flashy pastel fishing houses that are along its shores. This commune was a crucial part of the events of WW2. Close is Saint-Mere-Eglise which was the first French commune to be free, and its location on Utah Beach is the place where the American soldiers landed in the invasion. Consequently, it is a village not merely for its natural charm but also its striking architecture and deep history. 

Cabourg Beach

The town of Cabourg is the definition of a town rebirthed. It used to be a no man’s land that became popular as a fancy seaside resort in the mid-1800s. Today, manors from the Belle Epoque are still along the town’s major promenade that courses together with its golden beaches. In Cabourg, Mon Amour is a festival held for three days where indie music lovers can thrill themselves on the beach. There is also the Romantic Film Festival that takes place yearly in June. In the case that you won’t be around during the festival, there are still attractions waiting for you like the popular casino, a horse race track, art galleries, etc. 

Trouville

This exciting seaside resort between the Seine estuary and Caen is often overshadowed by its hip neighbor of Deauville. However, it offers just as much fun and entertainment for a family. When you are done with the beach, go to the shops and check out what they offer. And just a short trip inland, there are some pleasant gardens while a good fish market is nearby. Visit Brasserie Le Central and Brasseri Les Vapeurs for fantastic menus. 

If you are visiting with children, the beach is the place to go. But if the weather isn’t favorable, then check out the seafront swimming pools (outdoor and indoor) or go for Honfleur to watch the butterflies and rich indoor gardens at Naturospace. Children can also see a small aquarium when they have enough time. 

Omaha Beach 

This is indeed a special beach. At its back are dunes while it stretches for miles. Omaha beach gets busy in the peak periods so bear that in mind if you do not like enjoying outdoor activities in a crowded place. You will find a structure atop the dunes and some former gun emplacements. There are also a few underground trenches to check out.

If you are going west lined to the coast road D514, there is a small road to the right after Colleville-Sur-Mer that leads to the beach and a small car park. Omaha beach is not easy to reach, so it is better to arrive there on time. The kids can play with spades and buckets to their pleasure.

Minihic Beach

In Saint-Malo, Minohic beach is situated in the annex of Grande Beach and Pont Beach, which is nestled against Varde point. Beneath are small cliffs, and the setting is amazing with some vegetation. On both sides, there are rocks, and in the summertime, a first-aid station is often visible on Minihic beach. Water sports lovers will like the channel where sports can be practiced. To reach this beach from Saint-Malo, take D201 approaching Rotheneuf. Just after Rochebonne, you will see many small streets on the left that courses to the beach. Parking can be difficult here, though.

Rosais Beach (Plage du Rosais)

This is another beach in Saint-Malo, and it is situated south of the seaside spot beneath the hospital and close to the Rance dam. You will see a small back mixed with gravel. Many rocks can be seen as low tide as well. Additionally, shellfish collection is prohibited here. Swimming is not allowed too since there are unfavorable currents from the dam. From October 1 to May 31, dogs are allowed on the beach. To access here, ply the road D137 approaching Barrage de la Rance and Dinard. At the roundabout, trail the directions for the Hopital de la Rosais.

Fort Varde Creek

Close to Pont beach on the west coast of the point, Varde is the creek of Fort Varde in Saint-Malo. Very hidden, this creek has a well preserved and wild environment. But it is not easy to access since there are several large rocks. The bank can get relatively bigger at low tide. For lovers of solitude and calm, Fort Varde creek is the place to be.

You can get here from St Malo’s center. Just join up with the point Varde by hopping on D201 toward Rotheneuf. Take Rue Minihic after Pont beach then Rue de la Tour de Bonheur. Parking is not easy.

Pont Beach

This beach is situated in the bay of Minihic supported to the point of Varde. Pont beach is a nice sand beach and can be reached on foot from the road. It is easily accessible to persons with reduced mobility as well. The setting is perfect and offers a magnificent view of Saint-Malo’s bay to fort National. At low tide, the sand is fine, so you can visit the neighboring beaches that are westward. As stunning as Pont beach is, the smaller parking spaces and the difficulty in accessing it are the only disadvantages of visiting.

Eventail Beach (Plage de l’Eventail)

At the edge of Silicon beach across from fort National in Saint-Malo and at the old city’s entryway is Eventail beach. At low tide, it gets quite busy, and it is an entryway to reach fort Vauban. With an authentic form, families with children would love it here. There are lifeguards in the summer, and you might find small creeks on the coast in the center of rocks. You can also reach this beach from the edge of Rue du Sillon, close to the old city and the casino. And unlike many other beaches near Mont-Saint-Michel, parking is easier on Eventail beach.

Bon Secours Beach (Plage de Bon-Secours)

Bon Secours beach is situated afoot the fortifications in the old city (Saint-Malo). The beach is one of the most gorgeous beaches near Mont-Saint-Michel and one of the best equipped. Among its facilities includes kayak rental, nautical base, handicap accessible structures, lifeguard/first-aid station in the summer, restaurant bar, and a sweater swimming. The vista is incredible and Instagram-worthy, with the fortifications and a view of Dinard.

Accessibility by car is probably the only concern as regards Bon Secours. Parking can be hard around the old city. The easier way to park is at the Casino de St Malo nearby before taking the promenade lined on the ramparts. 

Best Beaches around Mont-Saint-Michel – Final Thoughts

Whether you visit France in the summer or the low-peak seasons, beaches near Mont-Saint-Michel are astonishing with wonderful features. Some of them are quite wild retreats, while others are busier, with lots of attractions and seafood restaurants close to them. If you are looking to plan a pleasant walk along the golden sands, sunbathe in a stately wide bay, get in and out of rock pools or sunbathe in a phenomenal sheltered cove, there is a lot to choose from