Paris Beaches: Paris-Plage : Kathika Travel Website

By Sandy Mitchell

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Beaches in Paris? Bien sur! The “City of Lights” may be located well away from the sea, but that doesn’t mean residents and visitors “in the know” can’t enjoy an afternoon at the beach.

Paris-Plage
Each summer from the last week in July to mid-August since 2002, the city of Paris closes the Georges Pompidou Expressway along the banks of the Seine River to all but pedestrian traffic. They bring in more than 2000 tons of fine white sand and turn the usually mundane street into a summer beach resort.

In addition to the sand, there are scores of elegant chaise lounges, potted palm trees, and misting fountains. Although you can’t swim in the Seine, there are floating pools moored along its banks with freshwater and life guards.

Other beach party amenities include a rock-climbing wall (actually part of the embankment along the river), cafes, and volleyball courts.

Look for Paris-Plage along the river from the Ile St. Louis to the Hotel de Ville. If you’re traveling by Metro, the Chatelet station is the nearest stop.

^{(photo © sebjarod/cc license)}