Cap d’Agde is a uniquely contrasting resort with fine sandy beaches, basalt cliffs, rocky islets and conservation areas for walking and cycling. But it’s undoubtedly the 25km of beautiful sandy beaches that make this Mediterranean coast one of the most popular in France.
For many years, the area has been the preserve of naturists, and anyone intending to visit here must expect to do so without clothing.
What is so good about Cap d’Agde?
Cap d’Agde is one of the top naturist destinations in the Mediterranean basin. Wide open to the sea, the naturist village benefits from a choice site and offers numerous incredible features and activities.
Read our Guide: The Best Naturist Beaches in France
The most obvious attraction of all are the beautiful beaches. There are over two kilometres of fine sand beaches including of course the thing that Cap d’Agde is most famous for – its popular naturist village.
Things to do in Cap d’Agde
As well as the beautiful beaches and naturist resort, tourists can enjoy supervised swimming with fully manned rescue posts, and summer activities in activities July and August include numerous volleyball tournaments and other sports like beach racket, table tennis, children’s games, etc.
Tourists to the Cap d’Agde will find all the comfort they need on the fully equipped beaches including mattresses and parasols along with excellent restaurants.
There is also the marina where yacht watchers will experience some serious boat envy and obviously there is the magnificent Mediterranean climate to enjoy.
These ideal conditions have inspired the naturist spirit here. Those seeking a holiday in harmony with nature, favouring self-respect and respect for others, can do so here, in a protected environment.
The nearby town of Agde, where naturism is not required, was founded by the Greeks around 2,500 years ago; they named it ‘Agathe Tyché’, which means ‘Good Fortune’.
And certainly, if you’re lucky enough to be able to include Cap d’Agde in your vacation itinerary you will have experienced your fair share of good fortune.
Beaches In Cap d’Agde
The south of France is known for its beautiful beaches and warm climate so if you’re headed to Cap d’Agde at the very south of the country, then one thing you have to check out are its beaches. You’ll find an array of stunning coastal areas to explore with something to cater to every taste.
We couldn’t talk about the beaches at Cap d’Agde without mentioning the Plage Naturiste; a nudist beach where you can stop off to catch some rays without those pesky tan lines! There’s a wonderful atmosphere here and beautiful views out over the sea.
If you’d rather leave your clothes firmly where they are, there’s no need to worry as Cap d’Agde has a whole host of other beaches for you to explore.
Take the Plage de la Grande Conque, for example where rocky inlets and grassy banks meet dark sand and some pretty remarkable waves. What’s great about this beach is that it’s a wonderful location regardless of the weather purely for the scenery.
The plage du mole is another of Cap d’Agde’s most beautiful beaches where visitors can take in the surroundings and enjoy the famous double cove. Swimming is good here unless you head to the northern part of the beach where the sea becomes a little rockier.
Located further north to the plage du mole, the plage de la roquille is a sandy beach that’s ideal for relaxing in the sun or having fun with the family.
There’s a lovely promenade to take a walk and enjoy the view out across the sea or you might rent a bike and cycle along the coast. This is one of the best beaches for swimming in the area so is a firm favourite for water lovers and families alike.
There are 21 beaches in and around Cap d’Agde though some are private including a few naturist n beaches belonging to resorts.
The Marina And Harbour Front – Cap d’Agde
It would be impossible to visit a coastal town without enjoying everything that the marina and harbour have to offer. The one at Cap d’Agde is absolutely breath-taking and somewhere that you could easily wile away an afternoon in the sun.
This is a great location to couple with your beach visits as many of the Cap d’Agde beaches are located very close to the harbour. There is a wide walkway along the front which allows you to take a gentle stroll and enjoy the scenery. This is also accessible to wheelchair users and those with pushchairs.
Another major attraction of the marina and harbour front at Cap d’Agde are the copious amounts of shops. If you’re after a little seafront retail therapy then this is the perfect spot.
You will also find an array of bars and restaurants which offer everything from ice creams and cocktails to seafood and other types of cuisine. Sit back and watch the world go by as you enjoy your favourite meal.
There is also a small market located at the harbour which gives you an entirely different shopping experience as well as access to a lot of local goods. It would be quite easy to spend an entire day here and not get bored.
If you have a boat and would like to book a berth at the marina in Cap d’Agde then the good news is that this is one of the largest in France. With a total of 3800 berths, it’s easy to get a spot and make a base for your trip around this delightful French town.
A bit about Cap d’Agde history
Cap d’Agde was actually a marketing ploy. In the 1960s the French government wanted to boost tourism along the Mediterranean coast on Languedoc-Roussillon. Part of the plan was to artificially create the vast beaches which are now synonymous with the area.
The resort has now matured into a must visit destination not only with amazing beaches but also wonderful districts to explore along with trendy bars, traditional cafes, and other attractions including museums, aquarium, and a fantastic golf course.
You can of course venture further afield and there are wonderful places to explore nearby.
The town of Agde
This underrated town is a fascinating place to visit. It has a maze of narrow alleys and little squares with cafes and bars. It sits where the Canal du Midi, Herault river, and the Mediterranean Sea all meet. Naturally it has a thriving marina.
Known as the Black Pearl, Agde is one of the oldest towns in France and has a distinctive Greek influence.
The historic part of town is wonderful to explore and when you realise the ancient buildings were built with volcanic stone from the nearby Mont Saint-Loup you understand why its called the Black Pearl.
Like many French towns Agde is dominated by its cathedral. Saint Etienne was built in the ninth century and was fortified in the twelfth century. Its bell tower is an impressive 35 metres high.
Mont Saint-Loup
The volcano which helped build Agde is now mercifully dormant and is a protected area. However, you can walk or cycle up the mountain. If you’re up to it the 1300 metre trek to the top is well worth it for the spectacular view from the top.
You’ll also get a closeup view of the Tour des Anglais. A watchtower built in the 1700s.
Le Grau d’Agde
A fishing village full of hustle and bustle and…wonderful beaches. You can easily spend a full day here and it’s very close to Agde so travelling there isn’t a problem. If you’re cycling its lovely ride along the dedicated cycle path which is shared by walkers. Just follow the Herault river and you can’t miss it.
This part of the world is lovely, but the countryside around the village is simply stunning. Enjoy a stroll round and, whatever you do, take it easy. Although there is plenty of bustle around the port area the streets and trails need to be enjoyed at a more sedate pace.
There’s plenty of cafes and shops to while away the time and the food is of course among the best you can have. Simple but delicious.
If you’re self-catering in Cap d’Agde, the daily market in Le Grau d’Agde is a must visit for all your fresh produce including for fish landed that morning.
La Tamarissiere
If you’re looking for an authentic village which is (more or less) unspoilt and commercialised, La Tamarissiere is for you. This small seaside community is on the right bank of the river Herault and is named after the trees (tamaris) which were planted around it in the late 1700s. That ancient forest now provides an evergreen backdrop to the village.
The forest is popular with campers and is a fantastic place to walk. You’ll be in awe at the huge pine trees and the plentiful wildlife you’re bound to encounter. Walk from the forest and through the village to the beach.
