Looking for the perfect coastal town in France that offers sunshine, relaxed living, and stunning seaside charm? Whether you’re planning a move to France or already living here and exploring new places, the French coastline has plenty to offer.
From the warm shores of the Mediterranean to the rugged beauty of the Atlantic, here are 8 of the best coastal towns in France where you can enjoy sun, sea, and simplicity, ideal for expats, remote workers, or retirees looking for a slower pace of life by the water.
👉 Explore the 10 most charming villages in France to live in
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Collioure (Occitanie)
Tucked between the Pyrenees and the Mediterranean, Collioure is a colourful seaside town just north of the Spanish border. Famous for its vibrant facades, Catalan culture, and historic castle, it attracts artists, food lovers, and those looking for a peaceful base in southern France.
- Mediterranean climate with over 300 sunny days a year
- Small-town charm with good access to Perpignan
- Popular with French and international expats
- Great food, art galleries, and walking trails
Ideal for: Artists, retirees, and lovers of Mediterranean simplicity.
Average real estate price per square meter in Collioure: 4,934 €
Average rental price per square meter in Collioure: 13 €
Cassis (Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur)
Just east of Marseille, Cassis is a postcard-perfect fishing village nestled beneath dramatic limestone cliffs known as the Calanques. It offers clear turquoise waters, a relaxed harbour, and Provençal charm without the flashiness of the French Riviera.
- Mild winters and warm, dry summers
- Access to Marseille airport and TGV links
- Limited development preserves the village atmosphere
- Weekly markets and seafood cuisine
Ideal for: Nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking tranquillity near Provence.
Average real estate price per square meter in Cassis: 7,703 €
Average rental price per square meter in Cassis: 17 €
Île de Ré (Nouvelle-Aquitaine)
Connected to the mainland by a bridge from La Rochelle, Île de Ré is a stylish island on France’s Atlantic coast. With flat terrain, bike paths, sandy beaches, and salt marshes, it’s a favourite for Parisians and expats looking for a holiday vibe all year round.
- Mild maritime climate
- Beautiful architecture and historic lighthouses
- Low-rise villages and easy cycling everywhere
- Strong local identity and eco-friendly living
Ideal for: Families, eco-conscious expats, and anyone seeking balance and calm.
Average real estate price per square meter in l’Île de Ré: 8,354 €
Average rental price per square meter in l’Île de Ré: 14 €
Dinard (Brittany)
Located across the bay from Saint-Malo, Dinard is a gem in northern France known for its Belle Époque villas, art galleries, and peaceful atmosphere. It offers a more understated charm than Riviera resorts, with stunning cliff walks and clean beaches.
- Oceanic climate, cooler but mild
- English-speaking expat community
- Great local produce and seafood
- Proximity to ferry ports and Rennes airport
Ideal for: Retirees and families who prefer cooler coasts and classic charm.
Average real estate price per square meter in Dinard: 6,029 €
Average rental price per square meter in Dinard: 13 €
Bandol (Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur)
Bandol is a lesser-known Riviera town between Marseille and Toulon, known for its rosé wine, quiet beaches, and residential feel. It’s more affordable than nearby hotspots like Saint-Tropez or Nice but still offers all the essentials of Mediterranean living.
- Easy access to Toulon-Hyères airport and TGV links
- Family-friendly with a lived-in feel year-round
- Local wine estates and seafood restaurants
- Fewer tourists than larger Riviera towns
Ideal for: Wine lovers, families, and expats seeking local integration.
Average real estate price per square meter in Bandol: 6,311 €
Average rental price per square meter in Bandol: 18 €
Lacanau (Nouvelle-Aquitaine)
Surfers and nature lovers are drawn to Lacanau, just west of Bordeaux. It offers long sandy beaches, pine forests, and one of France’s most consistent surf spots. Off-season, it’s quiet and connected to the forested Landes area, ideal for active outdoor living.
- Laid-back surf culture
- Nature reserves and walking trails
- Close to Bordeaux’s international airport
- More affordable property and rentals
Ideal for: Active expats, digital nomads, and families who want a balance of sea and forest.
Average real estate price per square meter in Lacanau: 4,789 €
Average rental price per square meter in Lacanau: 12 €
Honfleur (Normandy)
A historic port town in Normandy, Honfleur combines coastal living with old-world charm. With its cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and marina, it’s a favourite for expats seeking a picturesque and artistic setting.
- Easy access from Paris (2 hours by car)
- Rich history and vibrant art scene
- Cooler weather but good year-round tourism
- Weekly markets and excellent Normandy cuisine
Ideal for: Culture lovers and weekend commuters from Paris.
Average real estate price per square meter in Honfleur: 3,526 €
Average rental price per square meter in Honfleur: 13 €
Sète (Occitanie)
Known as the “Venice of Languedoc”, Sète is a working fishing port with canals, sandy beaches, and a thriving arts scene. It strikes a balance between authentic French life and lively seaside culture.
- Excellent seafood and lively markets
- Good train connections to Montpellier and Paris
- Less touristy than nearby resort towns
- Affordable compared to the Riviera
Ideal for: Expats looking for authenticity, artists, and budget-conscious movers.
Average real estate price per square meter in Sète: 3,740 €
Average rental price per square meter in Sète: 13 €
How to choose the right French costal town
When choosing your ideal coastal town in France, consider:
- Climate: Mediterranean south vs. Atlantic west vs. cooler north
- Transport links: Accessibility to airports, TGVs, and ferries
- Cost of living: Popular Riviera towns cost more than Atlantic or northern regions
- Community: English-speaking expats, schools, healthcare
- Lifestyle: Active (surf, sailing, hiking) or relaxed (markets, cafés, galleries)
For a smoother experience, consider renting before buying to test the lifestyle.
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