Gravelines · Nord · France
Plage de Petit-Fort-Philippe
You walk planks laid across dune grass toward sand the color of wet parchment, gulls wheeling overhead, the scent of salt and diesel from fishing boats moored in the canal just behind you. Children build fortresses while their grandparents sit beneath striped windbreaks, and the horizon dissolves into Belgium.
Reading live conditions…
Live from Open-Meteo · sea surface temperature and wave data modelled at 1-km grid resolution for Plage de Petit-Fort-Philippe. Numbers refresh at the hourly tick.
- Purity
- 0%
- Conditions
- 0%
- Crowd
- 0%
- Vibe
- 0%
The OnlyBeaches Index weighs four pillars against your chosen persona. Purity comes from water clarity and air-quality heuristics; Conditions from Open-Meteo waves, wind and temperatures; Crowd from historical patterns; Vibe from nearby events within 50 km. The score rebalances throughout the day.
You walk planks laid across dune grass toward sand the color of wet parchment, gulls wheeling overhead, the scent of salt and diesel from fishing boats moored in the canal just behind you. Children build fortresses while their grandparents sit beneath striped windbreaks, and the horizon dissolves into Belgium.
Photos
8 captures from Plage de Petit-Fort-Philippe
About this beach
Where it is
Plage de Petit-Fort-Philippe
Gravelines, Nord, France
51.0038°, 2.1091°
Top things to do
At Plage de Petit-Fort-Philippe
Sunset Photography
Ramparts silhouette against western sky
Shallow Wading
Low-tide flats stretch toward Belgium
Fishermen's Catch
Fresh mussels at canal-side cafés
Rampart Walks
Vauban fortifications overlook the shore
Near this beach
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Plage de Petit-Fort-Philippe.
Questions people actually ask about Plage de Petit-Fort-Philippe.
Is Plage de Petit-Fort-Philippe safe for swimming?
Plage de Petit-Fort-Philippe is generally suitable for swimming during calm weather, though conditions can vary with tides and currents along the North Sea coast. The beach has a gentle slope making it popular with families. However, always check local weather forecasts and tide times before entering the water. Look for any posted warnings or flags indicating water quality and safety conditions. During windy days, currents can strengthen, so supervise children closely and stay aware of changing conditions throughout your visit.
When is the best time to visit Plage de Petit-Fort-Philippe?
The beach is accessible year-round, with each season offering different experiences. Summer (June-August) provides the warmest weather for swimming and sunbathing, though it can be breezy. Spring and autumn attract visitors for peaceful walks and exceptional sunset views with fewer crowds. The North Sea climate means temperatures remain moderate even in summer, so bringing a light jacket is advisable. Winter visits appeal to those seeking dramatic coastal scenery and bracing beach walks, though swimming is only for the hardy.
