Plage des Grands Sables, secteur Locmaria, Locmaria: beach in Brittany

The Locmaria side of Les Grands Sables, on the east coast of Groix, reached by a path, with white sand, clear water and the Sables Rouges close by.

Suggested time: 2 h 30 to half a day
Type of place: Eastern approach to Les Grands Sables from Locmaria, between a wandering beach and the coastal path
Atmosphere: Island, geological, contemplative and family-friendly
Getting there: Locmaria area, east coast of the Île de Groix.

Who this place suits

With family: 9/10
As a couple: 10/10
With friends: 8/10
Solo: 10/10
With a dog: 4/10
Reduced mobility: 5/10

These scores are calculated from what the page records: official rating, facilities, difficulty, duration and location. They are a guide, not a substitute for contacting the venue, especially about accessibility.

About

This is the same great stretch of coast on the east side of Groix, approached here from Locmaria and the coastal path. From this side, you can link the beach to the Sables Rouges, whose colour comes from the garnet in the island’s rocks, and to Port Mélite. Les Grands Sables are known for their white sand, their convex shape and the way they move with the currents. Swimming is lifeguarded in July and August on the main beach.

What you will see

Approach from Locmaria along the coastal path.
Les Grands Sables, with the Sables Rouges close by.

Practical information

Getting there: Locmaria area, east coast of the Île de Groix
Services: Coastal path, access from Locmaria, lifeguards on the main beach
Accessibility: The path approach is less suitable
Swimming: Lifeguards in summer on the main Grands Sables beach
Tides: The tide matters less, thanks to the great width of the beach
Activities: Walking, swimming, photography, geology
Best time: Morning and early afternoon; high tide for the feel of a big calm bay
Nearby: Locmaria, the Sables Rouges, Port Mélite, the François Le Bail reserve

Tips on the spot

Check the tide times before you go, and download them for offline use.
Check the marine weather, swell and wind.
Read the signs at the entrance and respect the flags and instructions.
Choose the lifeguarded area when there is one, and do not overestimate your swimming level.
Watch children at all times, and set a family meeting point.

Show 9 more tips

Check the water quality in season, and do not swim if there is a ban.
Arrive early in July and August; June and September are quieter.
Use sun cream even when the sky is hazy, and keep a windproof layer.
Respect the dunes and vegetation, and take all your litter home.
If in doubt about conditions, do not swim.
Do not confuse the white sand of Les Grands Sables with the red sand of the Sables Rouges.
Take the coastal path from Locmaria and enjoy Groix’s exceptional geology.
Check the lifeguard hours.
Bring water and a windproof layer, and respect the nature reserve.

Frequently asked questions

What kind of beach is it?

The eastern approach to Les Grands Sables from Locmaria, between a wandering beach and the coastal path.

Why come here?

For walking, the geology of Groix and continuing to Port Mélite and the Sables Rouges.

How much time should I allow?

2 h 30 to half a day.

What is the atmosphere like?

Island, geological, contemplative and family-friendly.

Is swimming lifeguarded?

Yes, in summer, on the main Grands Sables beach.

What part does the tide play?

A small one, thanks to the great width of the beach.

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Photograph: rene boulay · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons