Isn’t it captivating how a place can be both a bustling hub and a serene escape? That’s La Pointe-Rouge for you. This gem is located in Marseille’s 8th district. La Pointe-Rouge is more than just a location. It is a residential area and a tourist hotspot.
Picture single-family homes dotting the Massif de Marseilleveyre foothills. Imagine yourself at the gateway to the Calanques. La Pointe-Rouge unfolds before you with its marina and sandy beach.
Let’s talk about the marina at La Pointe-Rouge. It wasn’t always here. Between 1964 and 1972 this marina was built. Now, it boasts 1800 berths. A batch of nautical activities also take place here. Think sailing, diving, canoeing, paddling and kitesurfing. Sea rowing and even Polynesian pirogue are on offer.
La Pointe-Rouge is a lively quartier. It is a magnet for those seeking fun and festivities. Restaurants, bars, cafes and clubs line the streets. This is one of the places to be in Marseille if you want to party.
Ever wonder about the name La Pointe-Rouge? Look at the small cliffs between La Pointe-Rouge and Madrague de Montredon. The earth’s color is the reason. It is named after this red earth.
Now, let’s head to the beach of La Pointe-Rouge. This is the largest sandy beach in Marseille. It is popular and well-sheltered from the wind. The sand slopes gently. Lifeguards supervise the swimming area in summer. This makes it ideal for families and those learning to swim. Showers are available for rinsing off after a refreshing dip.
Along the beach of La Pointe-Rouge you find cabins, restaurants, huts, snack bars and ice cream parlors. Enjoy lunch outside with a beautiful sea view. Treat the little ones to ice cream.
Water activities abound at La Pointe-Rouge. The nautical base offers hourly rentals, courses and year-round registrations. Try sailing, paddle boarding, kayaking, kitesurfing, diving or apnea.
Completed in 1972, the municipal port of La Pointe-Rouge is a modern marina. It has 1800 berths. That makes it the second largest in Marseille after the Vieux Port. Shops, mechanical stores and nautical and sports clubs are here. You can also find diving clubs and boat rentals.
La Pointe-Rouge is a boater’s dream. It’s halfway between the Frioul islands and the Calanques wild coast. This allows for quick boat trips in most weather conditions.
During summer, maritime shuttles connect Marseille’s main ports. It’s a pleasant way to visit Marseille by sea. The shuttles run between Les Goudes, La Pointe-Rouge, Vieux Port and L’Estaque.
Want to explore the Calanques? Opt for a boat excursion with swimming. Speedboats or catamarans are available but reservations are required. La Pointe-Rouge is the perfect starting point for a private boat tour. Boarding takes place from the large sea wall of the La Pointe-Rouge port.
Keep in mind that La Pointe-Rouge gets busy in summer. Parking is limited. The small free car park fills up quickly. Parking spaces are rare in the adjacent streets. A large paid car park is available at the port entrance.
La Pointe-Rouge offers a slice of Marseille life. It combines relaxation and recreation. From its red cliffs to its vibrant marina. From its family-friendly beach to its lively restaurants. La Pointe-Rouge encapsulates the spirit of Marseille.