#689 European Rank
Étretat Beach
Normandy (Seine-Maritime), France•English Channel• Best Season: June, July, August, September
Photo: Albert Żamett (Public domain) · Wikimedia Commons source
EDITORIAL SCORE
4.05/ 5.0
SEA TEMPERATURE
17.4°C
August 30-year average
DAILY BUDGET
€45/day
SAND & SHORELINE
Pebbles / Shingle
Deep Water
Sea Temperature by Month
30-year monthly averages for Normandy (Seine-Maritime) · NOAA satellite dataSwipe 12 months ⇄
Refreshing Plunge
Jan
9.5°C
Air 8°C
Feb
8.8°C
Air 9°C
Mar
9.1°C
Air 11°C
Apr
10.6°C
Air 14°C
May
12.8°C
Air 17°C
Jun
15.2°C
Air 20°C
Jul
16.8°C
Air 22°C
Peak
Aug
17.4°C
Air 22°C
Sep
16.5°C
Air 20°C
Oct
14.6°C
Air 17°C
Nov
12.4°C
Air 13°C
Dec
10.6°C
Air 10°C
Swimmability Window · NOAA Climatology
Peak 17.4°C in August · cold-water plunge / wetsuit season
30-year NOAA satellite climatological mean (1991–2020).Explore all France Sea Temperatures
Score Breakdown
Scenery & Setting4.8 / 5
Water Clarity & Cleanliness4.5 / 5
Sand & Shoreline Quality4.2 / 5
Atmosphere & Safety4.3 / 5
Accessibility & Entry Ease4.2 / 5
Affordability & Fair Pricing4.6 / 5
About Étretat Beach
The world-famous white chalk pebble beach framed by the monumental natural arches of Falaise d'Aval and Falaise d'Amont, immortalized by Claude Monet.
Destination Advisory & Classificationcold-water destination (17.4°C peak) — aesthetic/scenic ranking rather than warm swimming
Key Beach Facts
Official Records•Access: Direct access from Étretat town centre with seafront promenade, public parking, and seasonal lifeguards.
•Protected Status / Environment: Classified as a Grand Site de France and Natura 2000 protected coastal cliff ecosystem.
•Notable Feature: Famous pebble beach nestled directly between the iconic natural chalk arches Falaise d'Aval and Falaise d'Amont.
Amenities & Facilities
Bathrooms
YesShowers
YesFree Parking
YesFood / Tavernas
YesGood for Kids
YesDog Friendly
YesLifeguard on Duty
YesSunbed & Umbrella Rentals
NoNatural Cliff/Pine Shade
NoWheelchair Accessible
YesSnorkeling & Watersports
YesNudist / FKK Friendly
NoGetting There & Local Notes
Getting there:
Drive 30 km northeast from Le Havre on the D940 directly into Étretat town.
•Hike up the cliff stairs to the Chapel of Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde for the definitive Monet view
•At low tide, walk through the Manneporte rock arch along the pebble shore
•Town behind the beach is filled with traditional Norman crêperies and cider taverns
Nearest Airport & Transit Gateway
INTL · 40m driveConvenient highway or local transit access across Normandy (Seine-Maritime), France.
Are you a Venue Owner or Promoter at Étretat Beach?
Promote your beach club, summer residency, or submit photo & data updates to Shores.
Frequently Asked Questions about Étretat Beach
What is the water temperature at Étretat Beach?
The peak summer sea surface temperature at Étretat Beach averages 17.4°C (63°F), based on 30-year NOAA satellite climatology.
What type of coast or sand is Étretat Beach?
Étretat Beach is classified as a pebbles / shingle shoreline located in Normandy (Seine-Maritime), France.
Is Étretat Beach good for families with kids?
Yes, Étretat Beach is suitable for families and children with manageable water entry.
Are there parking and facilities at Étretat Beach?
Free parking is available. Restroom facilities are present.
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