Le Touquet-Paris-Plage is the most elegant resort on the Opal Coast. Created at the end of the 19th century in a pine forest by the sea, it became a favourite of Parisians and British visitors. Today it is still known for its huge sandy beach, its villas, its sports and its relaxed, stylish atmosphere.
Why visit Le Touquet
Le Touquet combines beach, forest and nature: kilometres of sand, shady streets lined with villas, golf courses, horse riding, and the wild Bay of the Canche right next door.
Top things to do in Le Touquet
The beach and sand yachting
The beach is immense, especially at low tide – perfect for long walks, kite flying and sand yachting (char à voile), one of the town’s signature sports.
The forest and the villas
Walk or cycle through the pine forest, where Anglo-Norman and Art Deco villas hide among the trees.
The Canche bay and the lighthouse
North of the town, the Baie de Canche is a nature area with dunes, birds and seals at low tide. The red-and-white lighthouse can be visited.
Montreuil-sur-Mer
About 15 km inland, the walled town of Montreuil-sur-Mer, which inspired a setting in Victor Hugo’s *Les Misérables*, makes a charming half-day trip.
The Enduropale
In winter, the Enduropale beach motorbike race draws huge crowds to the sand.
Best time to visit Le Touquet
May to September is ideal for the beach and outdoor activities. Weekends and school holidays are busy. The climate is mild and windy; bring a jacket even in summer.
Getting to and around Le Touquet
The nearest railway station is Étaples-Le Touquet, a few kilometres away, with trains from Paris (around 2 hours with a change, or direct services on some days) and Lille. Le Touquet airport has a small number of flights; Lille is the nearest major airport. Bikes are perfect for getting around.
What to eat in Le Touquet
Fish and seafood landed at nearby Étaples and Boulogne-sur-Mer, moules-frites, and northern specialities such as welsh and Maroilles cheese.
Travel tips
- Check tide times for walks and sand yachting.
- Rent a bike: the town is flat and has many cycle paths.
- Book early for summer weekends and the Enduropale.
Le Touquet FAQ
Is Le Touquet good for families?
Yes – the wide beach, the forest and the many activities make it very family-friendly.
Can you swim at Le Touquet?
Yes, at the supervised areas in summer – but the water of the Channel is cool.
