Best Places for Surfing in Marseille 03, France

Marseille, France's second-largest city and a renowned port town on the Mediterranean coast, offers surfers a unique blend of urban energy and natural beauty. From the rocky beaches to the clear waters, there are numerous spots where surfers can catch some waves. Here’s a detailed guide to the top 20 places for surfing in Marseille 03.

The Perfect Waves

Marseille's diverse coastline provides a variety of wave conditions suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers. The city boasts long, sandy beaches that can be perfect on calm days, but it’s the strong currents and powerful swells that create the best surfing spots during winter months.

The Top 20 Surfing Destinations in Marseille 03

• La Bocca: Located near the Calanques national park, La Bocca offers consistent waves and a beautiful setting. It’s particularly popular among longboarders due to its mellow conditions.
• Lérins Islands: Just off the coast of Marseille, these islands provide excellent surf for experienced riders. The island of Sainte-Marguerite is known for its powerful waves and can offer some thrilling rides in the right conditions.
• Château-Rouge: A bit further north on the Calanques coastline, Château-Rouge offers a variety of breaks from small beach breaks to larger reef breaks. The area is less crowded and perfect for those looking to avoid the busy spots.
• Le Corbusier Beach (Plage du Cimetière): Situated in the old port, this spot can offer good waves on certain days but is often subject to urban pollution, making it a more challenging choice for surfers.
• Bouillide: This fishing village near Marseille offers several breaks that cater to different skill levels. The waves here are generally small and perfect for beginners or those looking for an easier ride.
• Château-Gombert: Located in the city center, this spot is known for its consistent waves, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. It’s more suited for smaller surfers due to the narrow beach width.
• Rocher de la Placette: This rocky outcrop near La Ciotat provides a unique surfing experience with a mix of reef breaks and pointbreaks. The waves here can be strong, so advanced surfers should exercise caution.
• La Belle Mare: Found just south of Marseille city center, this spot offers consistent waves that are perfect for intermediate to advanced surfers. It’s also known for its scenic beauty and nearby cafes.
• Villeneuve-Loubet: This coastal town has several spots with good wave breaks, including Plage du Pont Rouge and Les Sablettes. Both areas are popular among surfers looking for a bit more space away from the city.
• Calanques National Park: The park offers some of the most picturesque surfing in Marseille. Locations like Baie des Enfants and Plage des Anges provide stunning views while delivering consistent waves.
• Luminy Beach: With a mix of beach breaks and reef breaks, this spot near the university campus is ideal for surfers looking to combine fun with convenience. It’s also accessible by public transport from Marseille city center.
• Le Cannet-des-Moines: Just outside Marseille, this town offers a range of breaks that suit different skill levels and wave conditions. The beach is less frequented by tourists, making it a quieter spot for surfers.
• Port Cros Island: While not directly in Marseille 03, this island offers exceptional surfing opportunities just offshore from the city. It’s a bit of an adventure to reach but well worth the trip for dedicated surfers.
• Saintes-Maries-de-la-mer: Located along the Camargue coast, this beach provides excellent waves and is particularly popular in summer months when the water temperature is warmer. It’s a great choice for those looking to combine surfing with exploring the local area.
• La Joliette: Near Saint-Tropez, La Joliette offers some of the best reef breaks in the region, making it a favorite among experienced surfers. The waves here can be powerful and challenging.
• Martigues: This coastal town provides consistent surf conditions, with several beaches offering good wave action. It’s particularly popular on weekends when more space is available for surfers.
• Lambesc: Located between Marseille and Aix-en-Provence, Lambesc offers a range of breaks suitable for all levels. The area also has a lively surfing community, making it a great place to meet fellow enthusiasts.
• Le Lavandou: This coastal town is famous for its beautiful beaches and clear waters but can offer decent surf when conditions are right. It’s a bit more touristy than some of the other spots on this list, so plan accordingly.
• Rocher des Calanches: Near Marseille city center, this rocky outcrop provides both beach breaks and reef breaks. The waves here can be strong, making it ideal for experienced surfers looking for a challenge.
• La Belle Épine: Located near the fishing village of Le Vieux Port, La Belle Épine offers consistent waves and is popular among local surfers. It’s also close to Marseille city center, making it convenient for day trips.

Marseille 03 provides a diverse range of surfing spots that cater to different skill levels and preferences. Whether you’re a beginner looking for an easy ride or an experienced surfer seeking challenging waves, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant coastal city.