Beaches in the Perpignan area

Whoop whoop, summer has arrived in Perpignan with the mercury tipping the late 20s here this afternoon. Let's hope it is here to stay and doesn't continue it's annoying peekabo games it's been playing on us for the last few weeks. 
It's beach time!!! 

Collioure Beach

I love the beach and with two small kids, we regularly pack up the car and head East to the beaches near our house in Cabestany. One of the fantastic things about living here is that it's possible to go to the beach 365 days of the year and there are plenty to chose from , all within striking distance of each other.

Here's my take on the beaches in the PO, starting from the most Northern beach : Barcares , down to the most Southern beach on the Spanish border , Cerbere.

Barcares : Barcares is sandwiched between the lagoon and the med and is a long strip of over 12kms of sandy beach.Because Barcares gets some wind, it's a popular place for wind water sports on the lake. This long stretch of sandy beach is never really crowded and you'll can find a quiet spot to sunbathe quite easily.

Toreilles : A less developed resort, unspoilt. Not many facilities. One or two very good beach clubs which open for the summer months

Saint Mairie : A small beach with lots of snack bars and pizza joints. It has a nice little promenade with a small cute marina. It can be very sheltered here, on the Southern end and so we'll head here if it's a windy day.

Canet plage : 2.5 kms of fine sandy beaches. Definitely the best beach for safe swimming with children, particularly on the Northern end , near the marina. Between Canet and St Cyprien is quite dangerous, with a sharp ledge once you enter the water so be careful if you're bringing smallies. Lovely promenade for strolling, roller blading, pram pushing. A local favourite, it's also got the best bars and nightclubs. It is the party place in the summer ( particularly Boulevard Cassanyes or as the locals call it "rue de la soif" . Good market on the sea front every evening in the summer. Some excellent restaurants.

St Cyprien : A long sandy beach sliced in two by it's impressive marina. The second largest marina in the South of France, there are some excellent fish restaurants here. Aqualand also on the Southern end provides entertainments for the big kids. Nice prom again for strolling.

Argeles : Gets VERY busy in high season. Known as the campsite capital of Europe. Rough sandy beach. Panoramic views. New marina - lovely to breakfast here, watching the boats, just adjacent to the prom.

Racou : Hippy style hang out, reminiscent of Aussie laid back beaches. The coolest spot on the stretch, yeah man!

Collioure : A must visit when you are here, although the beaches are stony and small.

Port Vendres : Beautiful little coves, south of Port Vendres. Take a bit of scrambling to get down to them but worth it. Ideal for snorkeling, picnicking.

Banyuls : Another stony beach with a fine marina. Good snack bars on the beach that don't cost the earth.

Cerbere : This border town has a small stony beach - lovely laid back family atmosphere. 

Wee haaaaaa, Here comes the Summer!!