Plage des Catalans, Sandy beach in 7th arrondissement, Marseille, France

Plage des Catalans is a sandy beach in the 7th arrondissement of Marseille that stretches along the Mediterranean with fine sand and rocky edges. It faces the Frioul islands and is framed by cliffsides that create a distinct setting.

Plage des Catalans was created in 1880 on land reclaimed from the sea, at the foot of the Catalans cove below the Palais du Pharo. In 1949 it hosted the first French volleyball championship played on sand, and the beach has remained a training ground for Marseille clubs since.

This beach serves as a gathering spot for locals who spend summer days swimming and socializing with friends and family. Volleyball games are common sights here, reflecting how the community has shaped this space into a social hub.

The beach has showers, toilets, changing rooms, and a first aid station with lifeguards watching during summer months. It gets busy in warm weather, so arriving early helps you find a comfortable spot and avoid crowds.

The beach takes its name from the Catalan fishermen who settled this cove; their boats once landed their catch directly on this sand. Look for the small fishing huts at the northern end, still used by local fishermen today.