Plage des Catalans

The Plage des Catalans is a small sandy city beach on Rue des Catalans in the Endoume district of the 7th arrondissement of Marseille, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of France. It lies directly below the Pharo gardens, a short distance from the Vieux-Port, and is one of the closest places to swim to the city centre. The beach is compact and often full on summer days, with a view across the water towards the entrance to the Vieux-Port and the forts. Unlike the longer beaches of the Prado, it has a distinctly local character, and the sand is the scene of beach volleyball games, swimming, sunbathing and groups of friends gathering after work. The water is sheltered and generally calm, and children can paddle in the shallows. Lifeguard cover operates in summer only, so at other times of year swimmers should take care. The beach is open at all times and entry is free. A visit usually lasts one to two hours, though many people spend an afternoon. Summer mornings are the best time to find space, as the beach becomes crowded later in the day and on weekends. Facilities are limited, so visitors may wish to bring water, shade and a towel and check what cafes are open nearby. The beach can be reached on foot in about 20 minutes from the Vieux-Port along Quai de Rive Neuve and past the Pharo, and bus 83 along the Corniche also serves the area. Combined with the Palais du Pharo gardens above and the Vallon des Auffes further along the coast, it forms an easy half-day itinerary along the shoreline. Footwear is useful on the rocky edges near the water.