Plage de calais

Description

Let me tell you about this gorgeous stretch of coastline that’s become my absolute favorite spot in Northern France. The Plage de Calais is this amazing sandy beach that stretches as far as the eye can see, offering breathtaking views across the English Channel. Y’know, on really clear days, you can actually spot the white cliffs of Dover in the distance – it’s pretty magical!

The beach has this wonderful, wide-open feel that just makes your soul happy. The sand is surprisingly soft under your feet, and the gentle slope into the sea makes it perfect for families with little ones. I especially love how the beach never feels overcrowded, even during peak season. There’s always plenty of space to spread out your towel and claim your own little piece of paradise.

Key Features

• Expansive sandy beach with plenty of room for sunbathing and beach games
• Crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming (though admittedly a bit chilly!)
• Modern promenade with smooth, wheelchair-accessible paths
• Clean, well-maintained facilities including showers and restrooms
• Dedicated play areas for children with safety surfaces
• Multiple lifeguard stations during summer months
• Several beachfront cafes and ice cream stands
• Free parking areas nearby
• Protected swimming zones during peak season
• Excellent water quality that consistently meets EU standards

Best Time to Visit

From my experience, the absolute sweet spot for visiting Plage de Calais is between June and September. The weather tends to be most cooperative during these months, with average temperatures hovering around 20°C (68°F). July and August bring the warmest waters and most sunshine, but they’re also the busiest months.

If you’re anything like me and prefer a quieter experience, I’d suggest coming in June or September. The weather’s still lovely, but you’ll have more of the beach to yourself. Early mornings are particularly spectacular – there’s something magical about watching the sunrise over the Channel while having your morning coffee on the beach.

How to Get There

Getting to Plage de Calais is actually pretty straightforward. If you’re coming by car (which I personally think is the most convenient way), you’ll find several well-signposted parking areas near the beach. The train station in Calais is just a 15-minute walk from the beach – super convenient if you’re traveling by rail.

For those using public transport, regular bus services run from the city center to the beach area. And here’s a little tip from someone who’s made the journey countless times: if you’re coming from Paris, the high-speed TGV train gets you to Calais in just 1.5 hours!

Tips for Visiting

Okay, so here’s what I’ve learned from my many visits to this beautiful beach. First off, don’t forget to check the tide times before you go – the beach looks completely different at high and low tide, and you’ll want to plan your visit accordingly.

Bring layers! Even on sunny days, the wind can pick up pretty quickly (it’s the Channel, after all). I always pack a light windbreaker just in case. And speaking of packing, bring your own beach umbrella if you can – while there are some rental options available, having your own gives you more flexibility.

The beach has great facilities, but during peak season the cafes can get busy. I usually pack a picnic and some snacks. Oh, and don’t forget to bring cash – some of the smaller beach vendors don’t accept cards.

If you’re into photography, the golden hour here is absolutely incredible. The way the light hits the water and creates these amazing reflections… trust me, you’ll want your camera ready!

For families with kids, there’s a fantastic playground right by the beach. My nieces absolutely love it, and it’s a great backup plan if the weather turns a bit iffy. And remember those accessible paths I mentioned? They’re perfect for strollers too.

Lastly, consider timing your visit around the local events – throughout summer, there are often beach volleyball tournaments, sand castle competitions, and other fun activities that really add to the experience. Just check the local tourist office website before your visit to see what’s happening.

Location

Places to Stay Near Plage de calais

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