An iconic seaside resort in the south of France, La Grande Motte captivates with its unique futuristic architecture and chic relaxed ambiance. Renowned for its white pyramid-shaped buildings lining the Mediterranean Sea, the town offers 7 km of fine golden sandy beaches in a preserved environment. Palm trees, lush gardens, and water features harmoniously blend with luxury shops and seafront restaurants. Whether you want to relax on a paradise beach at sunset, enjoy a luxury hotel, or try water sports, La Grande Motte promises an unforgettable experience combining **luxury**, **relaxation**, and **summer escape**.
Discover the Best Private Beaches of La Grande Motte
Dive into the exclusive world of La Grande Motte's beach clubs, where comfort and high-end services await you.
- L’Effet Mer: A must-visit beach hut in La Grande Motte, L’Effet Mer offers an elegant and trendy atmosphere on the beach. Plush sun loungers, **Balinese beds** and **mattresses** shaded by parasols await you for a day of total relaxation. Its seaside restaurant serves refined Mediterranean cuisine (grilled fish, gourmet salads, fruity cocktails), ideal for a lunch with your feet in the sand. In the evening, the atmosphere continues with **lounge evenings** and DJ sets against a magnificent **sunset** over the sea.
- Pampa Plage: A new favorite, this bohemian chic private beach is located on the border of La Grande Motte and Carnon. **Pampa Plage** charms with its exotic decor of driftwood and palm trees, evoking a small tropical paradise. You can rent **comfortable sun loungers** for the day or opt for canopy beds for an even more luxurious experience. The beach bar offers tapas and tropical cocktails in a relaxed musical ambiance. On weekends, Pampa Plage regularly organizes **themed evenings** and festive events, delighting vacationers in search of conviviality.
- Cosy Beach: The first beach hut installed on the West beach of the port, Cosy Beach lives up to its name with its intimate and family-friendly atmosphere. Located a stone's throw from the marina and only 15 minutes from Montpellier, it offers a **relaxed and welcoming atmosphere** appreciated by regulars. On the agenda: sun lounger and parasol rentals at affordable prices, attentive service to bring you fresh drinks and snacks directly to your lounge chair, and even beach games to keep the children occupied. It's the perfect place to enjoy the sun in simplicity, in a comfortable and warm setting.
- Azur Plage: A true **family-friendly private beach**, Azur Plage emphasizes conviviality and relaxation for everyone. This Mediterranean-spirited beach hut offers **sun loungers** and **parasols** for daily rental, with meal and lounger packages that are very popular. Children are the stars here thanks to the play facilities and gentle slope of the sea, while parents enjoy the tranquility of the place. The beach restaurant, with its moderate prices, serves simple and delicious cuisine (salads, grills, ice creams) ideal for a family lunch while admiring the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean.
- Côté Sud: Located on the Couchant beach, Côté Sud is a private beach with authentic charm that combines **simplicity** and **elegance**. More intimate than other beach clubs, it charms with its warm and personalized welcome. You can relax on its comfortable sun loungers while admiring the panoramic view of the bay. On the services side, everything is provided for your comfort: rental of mattresses and parasols, shower available, and beachside dining service. Côté Sud is particularly prized for its calm and relaxed ambiance, ideal for enjoying luxury in complete relaxation.
Iconic Private Beaches of La Grande Motte
- La Paillote Bambou: A local institution, often considered the best private beach in La Grande Motte, La Paillote Bambou is synonymous with **beach luxury** and summer parties. Located on the Couchant beach, this mythical beach hut attracts a trend-seeking clientele with its panoramic sea lounge and sleek design decor. During the day, relax on **comfortable mattresses** while sipping a signature cocktail. In the evening, La Paillote Bambou transforms into a trendy party spot with lively **evenings**, live concerts, and DJs, all in a chic ambiance under the stars. Be sure to book your **sun lounger** in advance as the address is highly sought after in high season.
- La Voile Bleue: A true reference among the region's private beaches, La Voile Bleue is located at La Grande Motte (Grand Travers side) and epitomizes the **beach club** par excellence. Known for its idyllic setting and high-end comfort, it features large Balinese beds, cozy **lounge chairs**, and attentive service. Its semi-gourmet restaurant is an opportunity to savor refined dishes (fresh fish, seafood, gourmet desserts) facing the sea. Between translucent water and azure sky, La Voile Bleue offers an exclusive experience where **luxury** and serenity meet, making every day spent here a moment of exception.
- Le Cocobaïa (Hôtel La Plage 5★): A private beach attached to one of La Grande Motte's luxury hotels, **Le Cocobaïa** offers a decidedly high-end experience. Open to both hotel guests and external visitors, this place combines the elegance of a 5-star establishment with the charm of a seaside beach hut. Nestled at the end of a preserved beach, Le Cocobaïa boasts a breathtaking panorama of the Mediterranean Sea. You can rent a **sun lounger** or a VIP bed and enjoy meticulous beachside dining service (chic snacks, cocktails, fresh fruit). Its peaceful atmosphere and sophisticated decor make it an emblematic place for those seeking **comfort** and **exclusivity**.
So, ready to book your sun lounger on one of La Grande Motte's private beaches? It's simple, choose your favorite private beach on MySunbed and make your reservation in just a few clicks!
Discover the Best Private Beaches Near La Grande Motte
Around La Grande Motte, other exceptional private beaches await you along the coast to extend your getaway.
- Plage de l’Espiguette (Le Grau-du-Roi): A few kilometers east of La Grande Motte, the mythical beach of l’Espiguette stretches endlessly in a landscape of classified wild dunes. Although entirely natural, this **little paradise** houses a renowned eco-friendly beach hut, L’Oyat-Plage, where you can rent sun loungers and parasols amid this end-of-the-world landscape. You will enjoy a total escape: clear water, pristine sand, and even the possibility of paddleboarding, kayaking, or horse riding along this preserved beach. L’Espiguette is the dream destination for those seeking a **paradise beach** and tranquility, away from urban hustle and bustle.
- Carré Mer (Villeneuve-lès-Maguelone): About 20 minutes west of La Grande Motte, towards Montpellier, Carré Mer is a renowned private beach run by twin Michelin-starred chefs. Located on the long wild beach of Maguelone, near Palavas, this chic beach hut offers a clever mix of luxury and relaxation. Its seaside gourmet restaurant delights gourmets with refined culinary creations from the **Mediterranean cuisine**. On the beach, elegant **beds** and aligned sun loungers offer a stunning view of the sea. Carré Mer is particularly appreciated for its sophisticated ambiance and lounge evenings, making it an ideal excursion for an exceptional day or evening away from La Grande Motte.
- Plage Palace (Palavas-les-Flots): For an even more luxurious experience nearby, the Hôtel **Plage Palace 5★** (located halfway between La Grande Motte and Montpellier) has its own private beach. Open to external guests subject to availability, this private beach offers service worthy of a palace: beach valet, fresh towels, exceptional cocktails, and VIP lounge area. The setting is sumptuous, with an infinity pool overlooking the sand and a designer decor. Whether for a relaxing day on a grand comfort mattress or a gourmet lunch at the hotel's restaurant with a sea view, Plage Palace promises an unforgettable luxurious interlude on the Occitan Azure coast.
What to Do in La Grande Motte?
La Grande Motte is teeming with varied activities, from water sports to nature discoveries, relaxation, and gourmet pleasures.
- Water Sports and Thrills: A true paradise for thrill-seekers, La Grande Motte offers a wide range of water sports on the sea or on the Ponant water body. From the port, get your adrenaline fix by trying **jet-skiing**, **flyboarding**, or **parasailing** to fly over the bay. The favorable winds also allow for **windsurfing** and **kitesurfing** on the equipped beaches. For a fun family activity, opt for a **paddle** or kayak ride in the calm waters of the Ponant lake. Whether flying over the waves or gliding on the water, the thrills are guaranteed!
- Walking and Cycling: Known for its green spaces and architecture, La Grande Motte is pleasantly discovered on foot or by bicycle. The city has 20 km of pedestrian paths and shaded bike paths connecting the main sites. Stroll along the seafront promenade at sunset, or go on a **bike ride** to the Ponant Lagoon to observe birds and flamingos. Themed guided tours are organized to admire the atypical architectural heritage designed by Jean Balladur, including the famous Grand Pyramid. These walks will allow you to savor the local "**slow life**" between nature, culture, and maritime panorama.
- Well-being, Thalasso, and Spa: Take care of yourself in La Grande Motte by taking advantage of the facilities dedicated to relaxation and well-being. The resort is home to a renowned **thalassotherapy** center, Thalasso & Spa Les Corallines, open for over 35 years. Treat yourself to a relaxing algae massage, a marine wrap, or a bubbling bath facing the sea for absolute relaxation. Several spas and institutes also offer high-end treatments (hammam, sauna, beauty treatments). A welcome wellness break to recharge between sunbathing, in the soothing atmosphere of the Mediterranean.
- International Golf: Golf enthusiasts will find their happiness on the greens of La Grande Motte. The city has an exceptional **International Golf**, designed by architect Robert Trent Jones Sr, with no less than 42 holes spread over 3 courses in a green 100-hectare estate. Between umbrella pines, lakes, and white sand bunkers, the setting is splendid for perfecting your swing. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned player, you can enjoy the practice range, the giant putting green, and even take lessons. A round of golf in La Grande Motte is an opportunity to combine sport, nature, and elegance, just steps from the beach.
- Family Leisure: La Grande Motte is an ideal destination for families thanks to its many fun activities. Don't miss the **Espace Grand Bleu** water park, with its wave pools, giant slides, and paddling pools, where young and old have fun under the pine trees. Thrill-seekers can also visit **Ponant Aventure**, a treetop adventure course set between the sea and pine forest, offering more than 140 workshops and zip lines for all ages. For a more relaxed outing, the mini-golf, playgrounds, or a ride on the tourist train (in summer) will delight children. At nightfall, the **Casino Pasino** and the summer funfair (Luna Park) offer other entertainments to occupy your family evenings.
- Gastronomy and Nightlife: After a day in the sun, let yourself be tempted by La Grande Motte's gourmet and lively scene. The resort has many quality restaurants along the marina and beaches, where you can enjoy fresh fish, shellfish, and local specialties like mussel brasucade. For an exceptional gastronomic experience, reserve a table at **Prose** or **Essentiel**, renowned tables of the resort (one of which is Michelin-starred) that elevate seafood products in an elegant setting. On the atmosphere side, savor a cocktail in a lounge bar facing the **orange sunsets**, or extend the evening in one of the trendy seaside clubs. Between the sound of the waves and the music of themed evenings, La Grande Motte knows how to satisfy both party-goers and epicureans.
Need More Ideas for Activities in La Grande Motte?
To best prepare your stay, feel free to consult the La Grande Motte Tourist Office website and this online tourist guide dedicated to La Grande-Motte. You will find many suggestions for activities, upcoming events, and practical advice to fully enjoy the resort.
Iconic Places of La Grande Motte
Bold architecture, lagoon landscapes, or entertainment venues, here are some iconic sites to discover absolutely:
- The Grand Pyramid: The absolute symbol of La Grande Motte, this white pyramidal building towering 55 meters over the marina since 1974 was designed by architect Jean Balladur. The Grand Pyramid is recognizable by its tiered terraces covered in vegetation. It stands at the edge of the marina, offering visitors a futuristic decor worthy of a visionary seaside resort. At the foot of this monument of modern architecture unfolds the port esplanade, a popular strolling place with its cafes and contemporary sculptures. A photo in front of the Grand Pyramid is a must to immortalize your visit to the resort!
- The Ponant Lagoon: Separating La Grande Motte from the neighboring commune of Grau-du-Roi, the Ponant lagoon is a vast lagoon water body surrounded by nature. This peaceful and preserved place is a haven for many bird species (herons, flamingos) and for outdoor walking enthusiasts. A pedestrian and bike path circles the lagoon, offering superb views of the calm waters and reed beds. It is also a popular playground for gentle water activities: pedal boating, light sailing, or paddleboarding. At the golden hour of the evening, the reflections of the sunset on the Ponant lagoon offer a magical spectacle, making this natural site a must-see in La Grande Motte.
- The Marina: The vibrant heart of La Grande Motte, the marina (1639 berths) is one of the largest in the French Mediterranean. Bordered by gardens, residences, and the famous pyramids, it is lively all year round around pleasure boats and passing yachts. Along the docks, you'll find a pleasant promenade lined with restaurants, ice cream parlors, lounge bars, and seaside shops. In summer, the port hosts night craft markets and events, while visitors admire the comings and goings of sailboats. Whether it's to embark on a sea excursion, have a drink on a terrace, or simply enjoy the marine atmosphere, the Port of La Grande Motte is an unmissable meeting place.
- Casino Pasino: A flagship leisure establishment of the resort, Casino Pasino stands at the entrance of the city like a modern palace dedicated to entertainment. Its contemporary architecture with futuristic curves fits perfectly into La Grande Motte's urban landscape. Inside, the establishment offers gaming tables, slot machines, and poker in a chic universe. But the Pasino is much more than a casino: it also houses a theater/show hall hosting concerts, comedy shows, and various events throughout the year. Even if you’re not a gambler, you can go there for dinner in its restaurant with a view of the lagoon pool or to enjoy an animated evening. Casino Pasino illustrates the glamorous and festive side of La Grande Motte, contributing to the unique charm of this city that is both family-friendly and elegant.
The Best Municipal Beaches of La Grande Motte
In addition to its private clubs, La Grande Motte offers several magnificent public beaches, well-maintained and accessible to everyone for free.
- Plage du Grand Travers: To the east of the resort, the beach of Grand Travers stretches kilometers of blonde sand bordered by wild dunes and pine forests. It is the quintessential **nature** beach: vast spaces, protected environment (Natura 2000 area), and no buildings in the immediate vicinity give it a particular charm. Highly prized by Montpellier residents, it is Blue Flag certified for the quality of its waters and facilities. You will find some developed accesses with parking and showers, as well as a dog-friendly area (near access n°60) for the happiness of dog owners. Whether you want to sunbathe in tranquility, walk along the shore, or take a dip in often **translucent** water, the beach of Grand Travers promises a refreshing escape close to La Grande Motte.
- Plage du Couchant: On the west side, the beach of Couchant is the meeting place for families and sports enthusiasts. Located in the immediate vicinity of the town center and the nautical base, it stretches along the Couchant residences. This lively beach offers multiple facilities: volleyball and beach soccer nets on the sand, supervised swimming areas, showers, and restrooms. In summer, you can rent pedal boats or learn windsurfing thanks to the nearby Yacht Club, which organizes courses and lessons for beginners. The soft sloping sand and children's play areas make it an ideal spot for the youngest. At the end of the day, the **sunset** over the sea is splendid, visible from one of the beach bars or sitting on the breakwater. The beach of Couchant embodies the convivial and dynamic spirit of La Grande Motte.
- Plage du Point Zéro (Town Center): At the heart of La Grande Motte, the beach of Point Zéro is the most central and lively. Bordered by the seafront promenade with its many cafes, ice cream parlors, and shops, it is an essential place in season. Its shallow and calm waters are perfect for families with young children who can splash around safely. You will also find beach clubs for children, beach volleyball courts, and in summer, various activities such as outdoor aquagym. Very easy to access on foot from the hotels and residences in the center, the beach of Point Zéro offers a joyful and summery atmosphere from morning to night. It's the dream spot to enjoy an artisanal ice cream or waffle while strolling, or to linger on a terrace facing the sea once night falls.
How to Get Around La Grande Motte
Several convenient means of transport are available to reach La Grande Motte and get around easily during your stay.
- By Car: La Grande Motte is easily accessible by car via the A9 highway (Montpellier-Est or Lunel exit, then direction Grau-du-Roi/La Grande-Motte). It is about 20 km (30 minutes) from Montpellier. The resort has numerous free and paid parking lots spread throughout the city and along the beach. In high season, it is advisable to arrive early to find a spot, especially on weekends. The car will also allow you to explore the surroundings at your own pace, whether it is the neighboring Camargue villages or the coast towards Montpellier.
- By Train: La Grande Motte does not have a SNCF station in its center, but you can arrive at the TGV stations of **Montpellier Sud de France** or **Montpellier Saint-Roch** (served from Paris, Lyon, etc.) about 25 km away. From Montpellier, regular buses (line 106 Hérault Transport) connect directly to La Grande Motte in about 1 hour. Alternatively, the Grau-du-Roi station (terminus of a TER line from Nîmes) is 8 km away and also allows you to reach the resort via bus or taxi connections.
- By Plane: The nearest airport is **Montpellier-Méditerranée (MPL)**, located just 15 km from La Grande Motte, making it a quick access point. From the airport, you can reach the resort in 15-20 minutes by car (taxi, VTC, or rental car transfer). The Nîmes-Garons airport (about 50 km) is another option, especially for some low-cost flights, but Montpellier remains the most convenient platform with numerous national and European connections.
- By Bus and Shuttle: La Grande Motte is served by several bus lines. From Montpellier, the departmental bus line **106** operates year-round, with stops in the resort (Point Zéro, Grand Travers…). In summer, additional shuttles and special buses (beach shuttle) may reinforce the service from neighboring towns and park-and-ride facilities. Once on site, a small network of urban buses and electric shuttles allows circulation between the different neighborhoods (for example, to go from Ponant to Couchant) without using the car.
- On Foot or by Bike On-Site: Once you arrive, you will find that La Grande Motte is a human-sized city where everything can be done **on foot or by bike**. Numerous pedestrian paths and bike lanes connect the beaches, the port, the Ponant lagoon, and the city center safely. It is possible to rent bikes (classic or electric) from local rental shops for the day or the week to fully enjoy the vacationers' favorite mode of transportation here. The flat configuration of the resort and its **shaded paths** make walking and biking very enjoyable while being eco-friendly. Additionally, in summer, a small tourist train runs along the seafront in the evening, offering a fun way to discover the city without effort. In short, getting around in La Grande Motte is a pleasure in itself, synonymous with freedom and relaxation.
