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Plages du Prado: Marseille's Coastal Playground

Experience the vibrant coastal life of Marseille at Plages du Prado, offering sun, sand, sports, and stunning Mediterranean views for an unforgettable beach getaway.

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Plages du Prado, a sprawling urban beach in Marseille, offers a vibrant coastal escape. Created in the 1970s using fill from the city's metro construction, these beaches provide a unique blend of natural beauty and urban convenience. With stretches of fine sand and clear waters, Plages du Prado is a hub for families, sports enthusiasts, and those seeking relaxation. Enjoy swimming, windsurfing, beach volleyball, or simply soak up the Mediterranean sun. The area is well-equipped with amenities, including restaurants, restrooms, and accessible facilities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit for all. Easily accessible by public transport, Plages du Prado is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a lively beach experience in Marseille.

A brief summary to Plages du Prado

  • Marseille, FR

Local tips

  • Arrive early during peak season (summer) to secure a good spot on the beach and avoid parking hassles.
  • Take advantage of the public transport options, such as bus lines 19 and 83, to avoid traffic and parking fees.
  • Explore the different beaches within Plages du Prado to find the one that best suits your preferences, from sandy stretches to pebble beaches.
  • Visit the nearby Parc Borély for a relaxing break from the beach, with its beautiful gardens and walking paths.
  • Check the event calendar for festivals and competitions, such as the Sosh Freestyle Cup or the Festival of the Wind, for a unique experience.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the Vieux Port (Old Port), take bus line 83 towards Métro Rond Point du Prado. Get off at the Plage du Prado stop. The journey takes approximately 20 minutes and costs €2 for a single ticket. Alternatively, take the M2 metro line to Rond Point du Prado station, then transfer to bus line 19 or 19B towards Madrague de Montredon or Pointe Rouge Port, respectively. Get off at the Plage du Prado stop. The total cost is also €2.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From central Marseille, a taxi or ride-sharing service to Plages du Prado typically takes 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay between €12-€15 for the ride.

  • Driving

    From central Marseille, follow signs for 'Prado' and 'Les Plages'. Paid parking is available along the beaches, with rates varying depending on the lot and duration of stay. Expect to pay around €2-€3 per hour, or €15-€20 for a full day during peak season. Free parking is available at the entrance of Parc Borély and along Avenue de Bonneveine, but spaces are limited, especially during summer.

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Discover more about Plages du Prado

Plages du Prado, located in the 8th arrondissement of Marseille, is more than just a beach; it's a vibrant coastal park that embodies the spirit of the city. Created in the late 1970s by Gaston Defferre, the beaches were ingeniously constructed using the fill from the city's expanding metro system, transforming what was once an underutilized coastline into a recreational haven. Stretching for 3.5 kilometers, the Prado beaches are not a single, continuous expanse but rather a series of distinct beaches, each with its own character and appeal. From Plage du David in the north to Plage de la Vieille Chapelle in the south, visitors can explore a diverse range of coastal environments. Some beaches feature fine sand, while others are composed of pebbles and gravel. The beaches are bordered by 26 hectares of parkland, offering vast lawns, wooded areas, and playgrounds, making it an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The park also includes the world-renowned Skatepark or Bowl, attracting skateboarders from across the globe. Plages du Prado is a hub of activity throughout the year. During the summer months, the beaches come alive with swimmers, sunbathers, and water sports enthusiasts. The calm, clear waters of the Mediterranean are perfect for swimming, and lifeguards are on duty to ensure safety. Windsurfing is particularly popular, thanks to the consistent sea breezes, and rentals and lessons are readily available. Beach volleyball courts draw competitive players and casual groups alike, fostering a lively and engaging atmosphere. Kayaking and sailing are also favored pursuits, offering opportunities to explore the coastline from the water. Beyond water sports, the beach area is a hotspot for jogging, biking, and leisurely walks along the Promenade Georges Pompidou. The promenade is lined with cafes and restaurants, providing ample opportunities to relax and enjoy the stunning views. The adjacent Parc Borély offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the beach, with its beautifully landscaped gardens, running tracks, and central lake. Plages du Prado is also a venue for numerous events and festivals. The Sosh Freestyle Cup, a major skateboarding and BMX competition, takes place annually at the Bowl. The FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup was held here in 2008, marking the first time the competition was held outside of Brazil. In June, the beaches host concerts during the World Music Day, and the annual Festival of the Wind attracts kite-makers and enthusiasts from around the world. The beaches are well-equipped with amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit. Clean restrooms, showers, and changing rooms are readily available. Picnic areas with tables offer a welcoming spot for families and groups to gather and enjoy meals or snacks. For those looking to relax in comfort, rental services provide lounge chairs, umbrellas, and beach mats. The beaches are also highly accessible, with ramps and pathways designed to accommodate visitors with mobility challenges. Specialized beach wheelchairs are available for use, and accessible restrooms and showers are strategically positioned throughout the area. Plages du Prado is more than just a collection of beaches; it's a symbol of Marseille's transformation and its commitment to providing recreational spaces for its residents and visitors. Whether you're seeking a day of sun and sand, a thrilling water sports adventure, or a relaxing stroll along the Mediterranean, Plages du Prado offers something for everyone. Its vibrant atmosphere, diverse activities, and stunning coastal setting make it a must-visit destination in Marseille.

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