Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
Plage de la côte bleue FNI, FKK
Plage naturiste des Figuières sits on a rugged stretch of the Côte Bleue, about 20 kilometers west of Marseille.
About this place
Plage naturiste des Figuières sits on a rugged stretch of the Côte Bleue, about 20 kilometers west of Marseille. This official naturist beach occupies a sheltered cove backed by rocky hills and Mediterranean scrub, typical of the wild coastline between Ensuès-la-Redonne and the Calanques. France's long tradition of naturism is well-established here — Figuières appears on the Fédération Française de Naturisme listings and attracts both locals from the Marseille area and European visitors exploring Provence's less-touristed corners.
The beach itself is a mix of sand and pebble, bordered by limestone cliffs that provide some afternoon shade. Water clarity is excellent, and the swimming is good when the Mistral isn't blowing. You'll find the vibe relaxed and unselfconscious, in line with the French approach to naturism as ordinary leisure rather than countercultural statement.
Access involves a walk along a coastal path — not strenuous, but wear sturdy footwear and bring water, especially in July and August when shade is scarce and temperatures climb. There are no commercial facilities on the beach itself, so plan accordingly. The nearest village, Ensuès-la-Redonne, has a small shop and café, but you're better off stocking up in Carry-le-Rouet or Martigues before heading out.
Figuières rewards visitors who prefer their naturist beaches quiet and undeveloped. If you're touring the Provence coast and want a natural, clothing-optional swim away from the crowds at La Couronne or further east, this is a solid choice.
Visitor notes
Contributed by ClothingOptional.org Editorial Team
Who visits
Visitor mix not well-documented — typically draws regional naturist regulars from Marseille and surrounding towns, plus a scattering of European naturist travelers exploring the Côte Bleue. Expect a quiet, laid-back crowd. Likely skews toward couples and solo visitors rather than large family groups, given the undeveloped setting and walk-in access.
How to find it
The beach lies along the Chemin de Méjean coastal path west of Ensuès-la-Redonne. Park near the trailhead off Chemin de Méjean (limited roadside spots) and follow the path west. The coordinates put you on the coast just east of Cap Méjean. Signage may be minimal — local knowledge or a GPS track helps. Nearest train station is Carry-le-Rouet, about 4 kilometers east.
Things to watch out for
No facilities — bring food, water, and sun protection. The Mistral wind can make swimming uncomfortable and kicks up dust on the path. Access may be trickier in early spring or late autumn if vegetation overgrows the trail. Summer weekends see the most visitors, but it rarely feels crowded.
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Etiquette & ground rules
On clothing-optional beaches in Europe, full nudity is welcome but not expected — many visitors mix nudity, swimwear, and topless dress freely. Cameras and phone photography are off-limits without explicit consent. Pack out everything you bring. Stay aware of where the naturist section ends if signage shifts — adjacent stretches are sometimes textile-only.
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