Catalans beach is the closest option from the centre of Marseille to take a dip in the sea in a nice location.
The beach is located on the west coast by the Corniche Kennedy promenade and only about a 5-minute walk from the Le Pharo viewpoint.
Beach facilities
Access to the beach is free.
Plage des Catalans is covered in fine, light sand and the entrance to the water is gradual and largely sandy.
There is a free beach volleyball court, changing rooms, toilets and freshwater showers.
Along the adjacent street there are several restaurants, cafes, a newsagent or a pharmacy.
There is no possibility to rent a sun lounger or umbrella.
Subaquatique Underwater Museum
The Underwater Museum is located about 100 metres from Catalans Beach.
Several majestic sculptures made of recycled and Ph neutral cement, which does not affect the natural environment in any way, have been placed on the seabed. Gradually, the sculptures will become an artificial reef.
The idea of an underwater museum open to the general public is to promote interest in the environment, culture and sport at the same time.
How to visit the Subaquatique Museum?
The sculptures are located at a depth of 5 metres about 100 metres from the shore and are not fenced or guarded in any way.
If you can swim at least 200 metres and have goggles or, better still, a snorkel, you can visit this underwater museum at any time and completely free of charge. All you have to do is swim to it and dive your head under the water's surface.
Beachfront accommodation
Stay right on the beach in a great hotel Les Bords De Mer **** with absolutely breathtaking views of the sea.
You'll also find plenty of private apartments in the adjacent neighbourhood.
How to get there
Ideally combine a visit to the beach with a visit to Le Pharo or the Monument to the Soldiers who died.
There is also a bus stop right by the beach called "Pharo Catalans", where lines 82 and 82S stop.
Around 100 metres from the beach, you can also use the "Corniche Audeoud" stop, where lines 54 and 83 run.
What to see around
Discover all the places to see in Marseille.
