It's summertime, and what are Parisians to do? How about going to the beach without leaving the city? From July 19 to August 17, the quais that run along the Seine are transformed into one long beach, complete with sand, deckchairs, ice cream vendors, and even concerts!
The beaches can be found in three areas: Louvre/Pont de Sully, Port de la Gare and Bassin de la Villette. Each area has a different focus, so everyone can find something to do.
From the Louvre to the Pont de Sully - about three kilometres - there are open air attractions such as tai-chi, boules, and roller blading. Not in the mood for exercise? Deckchairs are out for your relaxation. This year, the plages are on two sites - the walkway George Pompidou plus the terraces and open space in front of City Hall, and the Bassin de la Villette.
At the Bassin de la Villette, the newest addition to the Paris Plages there is a water sports complex with row boats, pedal boats and kayaks. When finished with the physical exertion, beachgoers can get something to eat at quai side restaurants, or perhaps join in a game of boules.
So, imagine packing up friends and family with beach towels, swimsuits, maybe some water gear for kayaking, and then taking the metro to the beach! Activities start at 9:00 am, and go until midnight.
Here is a link to the page that provides all sorts of information on the beaches of Paris. Perhaps it is enough to make you hop on a plane to check it out? Or, maybe you want to start planning your beach adventure along the Seine in 2015!
http://quefaire.paris.fr/parisplages
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