Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
pebble
Sand Color
Main sand colour
grey
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
moderate
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
10 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
pebble
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
mandatory
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
1 000 m
Frequently asked questions
Plage d'Étretat: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity high, average temperature +14.0°C, warms up to +17.1°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Plage d'Étretat: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — moderate. Average wave height — 0.8 m.
Plage d'Étretat: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — moderate. The shallow area extends for 10 metres from the shore. Bottom — pebble. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable.
Plage d'Étretat: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — pebble. Sand colour — grey. Texture — gravel. Beach length — 1 000 metres.
Plage d'Étretat: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in June. It ends in September. The best month for a holiday is August. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Plage d'Étretat: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as excellent. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Plage d'Étretat: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking, sports ground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Plage d'Étretat: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
Lifeguards are on duty on the beach — an important safety factor. A first aid station is available.
Plage d'Étretat: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: L-Huitrière, Le Homard Bleu, Crêperie Lann-Bihoué. Cuisines available: Seafood, Crêpes. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Plage d'Étretat: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Water shoes, Cash, Headwear.
Plage d'Étretat: when is the best time to swim?
The best time to visit is in the morning, when there are fewer people and soft light for photography. In high season the beach is very crowded.
Plage d'Étretat: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Do not leave litter. Be careful near the cliffs — rockfalls are possible. Do not collect pebbles.
Plage d'Étretat: what activities are available?
The beach offers: snorkelling, surfing, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Plage d'Étretat: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for lovers of scenic landscapes and photographers. Suitable for cliff walks, swimming and watching natural arches. Not suitable for those seeking peace and solitude.
Plage d'Étretat: what makes this beach unique?
The beach is part of the Alabaster Coast and is known for its natural arches — Porte d-Aval and Manneporte, as well as the Aiguille (Needle) rock, which are symbols of Étretat and inspired Impressionist painters.
Plage d'Étretat: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Famous chalk cliffs and arches, Scenic natural formations, Kayaking and sailing opportunities, Developed infrastructure, Seafood restaurants, Blue Flag awarded, Free beach access. Cons: Very crowded in high season, Pebble beach, not sandy, Paid parking, Can be windy, Strong tides.
Plage d'Étretat: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Aval Cliff, Amont Cliff, Étretat Gardens. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Plage d'Étretat: does the beach have a Blue Flag?
Yes, the beach holds the international "Blue Flag" certification. This means the beach meets high standards of water cleanliness, safety and infrastructure.
Plage d'Étretat: how do I get to the city of Étretat?
The beach is located near the city of Étretat. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Étretat.