Plage de la Vieille Chapelle

Plage de la Vieille Chapelle is a quieter southern stretch of the Prado sea front in the Bonneveine district of Marseille's 8th arrondissement, about seven kilometres south of the Vieux-Port. It lies between the Borely sector and Pointe Rouge and is used mainly by local families rather than by visitors arriving in large numbers, which gives it a calmer feel than the central Prado sectors. Like the rest of the Prado system, the beach belongs to the artificial shoreline created in the 1970s, and its water is generally sheltered and gentle, suitable for relaxed swimming. Details such as the exact length and sand composition are less documented than for the busier sectors, so visitors should expect a simple, uncrowded city beach rather than a destination with extensive facilities. The lifeguard season that applies to the Prado complex runs from mid-June to mid-September, and showers and sanitary facilities are provided in each Prado sector. The atmosphere is local and unhurried, with families, residents of Bonneveine and swimmers who prefer to avoid the weekend crowds of Escale Borely. Weekdays are much calmer than weekends, and mornings between June and September are the most pleasant time. Access is by public transport or on foot. Metro line M2 runs to Rond-Point du Prado, then bus 19 toward Pointe Rouge reaches the beach in about 15 to 20 minutes. A short walk leads along the front to the cafes of the Pointe Rouge marina, which offer the nearest reliable food and drink. The beach suits families, residents and swimmers who want a quieter alternative to the Prado's main sectors while staying within the city of Marseille, Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur. Visitors seeking restaurants, rentals and entertainment will find more at Escale Borely to the north or at Pointe Rouge to the south, both within easy reach.