Richelieu
Occitania, France — Excellent water quality
Located 4.64 km from Agde along the coast road, Richelieu is a sandy beach in Occitania, France. The beach holds a Blue Flag award, which means it meets strict standards for water quality, environmental management, and safety. The beach is open from May 15 through…
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Richelieu
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Richelieu?
Located 4.64 km from Agde along the coast road, Richelieu is a sandy beach in Occitania, France. The beach holds a Blue Flag award, which means it meets strict standards for water quality, environmental management, and safety. The beach is open from May 15 through September 17, with lifeguards on duty during operating hours. Facilities include accessibility access and potable drinking water. May and June offer the quietest conditions, while July and August draw the most visitors. The Blue Flag certification is a reliable indicator of clean water and good management.
It sits alongside certified beaches along Occitania, part of a broader network of certified beaches throughout France certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Richelieu faces unknown toward Mediterranean Sea. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in May, June. The beach's orientation determines when it catches direct sun — plan your visit around this to make the most of your time there.
Planning
When to Go — Month by Month
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 8°C | 5°C | Low |
| Feb | 10°C | 7°C | Low |
| Mar | 11°C | 8°C | Low |
| Apr | 14°C | 11°C | Low |
| May | 17°C | 14°C | Med |
| Jun | 22°C | 19°C | High |
| Jul | 25°C | 22°C | High |
| Aug | 24°C | 21°C | High |
| Sep | 21°C | 18°C | Med |
| Oct | 17°C | 14°C | Low |
| Nov | 12°C | 9°C | Low |
| Dec | 9°C | 6°C | Low |
The best time to visit Richelieu is May, June. Air temperatures peak around 25°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 22°C in July.
How crowded does Richelieu get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in France, Richelieu sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is Richelieu open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (15-05 – 17-09). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at Richelieu
Is Richelieu safe to swim?Richelieu is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is rated <span class="inline-stat">Excellent</span>. Lifeguards are on duty during the official season.
What is the water temperature at Richelieu?Peak water temperature at Richelieu reaches around <span class="inline-stat">22°C</span> in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 7.9°C.
What is the beach like at Richelieu?Richelieu is a sandy beach on the Occitania coast of France. It meets all Blue Flag criteria for environmental management, water quality, safety, and facilities.
Does Richelieu have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Richelieu meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services. Trained lifeguards are on duty during the season. Toilet facilities are on site. Parking is available nearby.
Richelieu sits on the Mediterranean Sea — explore all Blue Flag beaches on the Mediterranean.
Planning a trip to France? Blue Flag Beaches France — our editorial guide to certified beaches across the country.
Transport
Getting to Richelieu
How do I get to Richelieu by car?Richelieu is approximately 4.64 km from Agde. Follow local road signs to the beach. Check Google Maps or a local map for the most current directions.
What is the nearest airport to Richelieu?The nearest airport is Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN), approximately 248.9 km away.
Can I get to Richelieu by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Agde.
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Entry | Free — no charge to access the beach |
|---|---|
| Lifeguards | ✓ On duty during official season |
| Disabled Access | Contact local authority for details |
| Showers | ✗ |
| Toilets | ✓ Available during season |
| Official Season | 15-05 – 17-09 |
| Beach Type | Sandy beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 43.2760°N, 3.4987°E |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — France |
Frequently Asked Questions
Richelieu FAQ
Is Richelieu suitable for children?
Richelieu is a Blue Flag certified beach in Occitania, France. Lifeguards are on duty during the official season, providing an important safety layer for families. The EU Excellent water quality rating means the water is safe and clean for all swimmers, including children. Blue Flag certification itself requires meeting strict environmental and safety standards that benefit all beach users.
Is Richelieu free to access?
Yes, access to Richelieu is free — there are no entry fees or charges to use the beach. Parking is available nearby; check local signs for any parking charges. Facilities including toilets are typically available during the official season at no charge. The beach is managed by local authorities under the Blue Flag programme.
When is the best time to visit Richelieu?
The best time to visit Richelieu is May, June. Water temperature peaks at around 22°C in July, which is ideal for swimming. Air temperatures reach 25°C in summer. If you prefer quieter conditions, visiting in June or September gives you warm weather with fewer crowds than the July–August peak. The Blue Flag is displayed during the certified season, confirming the beach meets all water quality and safety standards.
What is the water quality at Richelieu?
Richelieu is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict annual water quality standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is currently rated Excellent. Blue Flag certification is awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and requires independent water quality monitoring throughout the season. The results are publicly available from the European Environment Agency.
How do I get to Richelieu?
Richelieu is located in Occitania, France. It is approximately 4.64 km from Agde. The nearest airport is Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN), 248.9 km away. Parking is available at or near the beach. Check local transport authority websites for current public transport schedules. A car is the most flexible option for reaching the beach, particularly outside peak season.
Explore More
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