Olivier De Winne Nestled in the Aude department, the seaside resort of Port-la-Nouvelle stretches over 13 kilometres of beaches offering a unique diversity. Between well-equipped urban beaches and preserved wilderness areas, this destination appeals to families and nature lovers alike.
The beaches of Port-la-Nouvelle are renowned for their beauty and authentic Mediterranean setting, perfect for a holiday of relaxation and adventure. With beaches to suit all tastes, Port-la-Nouvelle is an ideal destination to enjoy the Occitan coastline.
The Must-See Beaches of Port-la-Nouvelle
The beaches of Port-la-Nouvelle are home to three main beaches, each with its own unique charm. The Front de Mer beach is ideal for families thanks to its many facilities. Further south, the Montilles beach seduces with its wild and diverse character, while to the north, the Vieille Nouvelle beach offers a peaceful experience in the heart of a preserved natural environment. Discover these must-see beaches, starting with the liveliest, the Front de Mer beach.
The Seafront Beach (Front de Mer): Lively and Family-Friendly
At the heart of the resort, this central beach is the most popular of the beaches in Port-la-Nouvelle. With its three lifeguard stations, play areas, and access for people with reduced mobility, it offers an ideal experience for families.
For a more peaceful time, head south, near lifeguard station No. 3. Nearby shops, a casino and a tourist office make this beach very convenient for a relaxing day.
Montilles Beach: Wild and Diverse
Among the beaches, Montilles stands out for its wild side and its two different atmospheres. The area near the city centre is family-friendly, while the southern end, towards Leucate, is home to a naturist beach.
Those who love peace and quiet will particularly appreciate this beach, accessible via a track at the end of Boulevard Eschasseriaux.
Old New Beach (Vieille Nouvelle): A Wild Beauty
Vieille Nouvelle beach is one of the most iconic beaches in Port-la-Nouvelle. Located to the north of the resort, it is bordered by dunes and remains unspoiled, ideal for those looking for a peaceful setting.
Continuing north, this beach joins that of Gruissan beach, creating a perfect continuity for a stroll by the sea. Discover our guide to Gruissan Plage to explore this natural extension of the coastline.
Natural and Coastal Treasures: The Island of Saint Lucie and Leucate
Beaches aren’t the only draw here. Nearby, the island of Saint Lucie, nicknamed “the island of a thousand scents,” offers an ideal setting for nature lovers. With its hiking trails and spectacular viewpoints, it’s a perfect getaway after a day on the beaches.
Warning: Avoid going to the island after rain, because in my experience, there are a lot of mosquitoes here then.
To extend your discovery, the beaches of Leucate, located a few kilometese away, offer a unique diversity: wild coves, family beaches and spots for water sports. Consult our guide to the beaches of Leucate to organise an excursion here.
Activities and Leisure on the Beaches of Port-la-Nouvelle
The beaches of Port-la-Nouvelle offer much more than just a setting for relaxation. Here are some must-do activities:
Water sports: windsurfing, kitesurfing, and beach volleyball.
Playgrounds: ideal for children on the Front de Mer beach.
Hiking: explore the trails on the Island of Sainte-Lucie or along the Ayrolles ponds.
These activities are the perfect complement to a day spent on the beaches of this seaside resort.
Summary Table of Services
| Beach | First aid station | Sanitary facilities | Disabled access | Parking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Front de Mer | Yes | Yes | Yes | Casino, downtown |
| Montilles | No | No | No | Boulevard Eschasseriaux |
| Vieille Nouvelle | No | No | No | Port area (D703) |
Why Choose the Beaches of Port-la-Nouvelle?
The beaches are ideal for a successful Mediterranean holiday. Whether you are looking for lively beaches with all the amenities or wild places to recharge your batteries, this seaside resort will meet your expectations.
With their preserved natural setting and numerous activities, the beaches are a must-see in the region.
For more information about Port-la-Nouvelle, visit this website.
