An unforgettable family summer vacation at the beach! 

Lovers of swimming, nature walks or cultural discovery, the seaside resorts of the Côte Fleurie will meet all your expectations. Here is an overview of the activities not to be missed during your family stay during your summer vacation in Cabourg, Houlgate and Merville-Franceville-Plage.

With the arrival of fine weather, the beach becomes THE flagship destination for families. The perfect place to enjoy the sun, with your toes fanned out while keeping an eye on the youngest who is making sand pies or the big one who wants to swim to the buoy. 

But the beach is not just about sunbathing. The seaside resorts of Cabourg, Houlgate and Merville-Franceville-Plage, located on the Normandy coast, offer a perfect combination of relaxation, water activities, cultural discoveries and entertainment for the whole family. The tourist office therefore offers you a list of exciting activities to do during your stay. All you have to do is make your choice! 

Contents: what to do on the beach of Cabourg, Houlgate and Merville-Franceville-Plage? 

1. Swimming and sunbathing on fine sand
2. Beach activities for children and adults
3. Walks and walks along the coast
4. Cultural discoveries

1. Swimming and sunbathing on fine sand 

In Calvados, the beaches are famous for their fine sand and it's a chance for you, our territory is no exception to the rule! embellished with umbrellas or beach baskets, you will be able to relax and enjoy the Norman sun while reading a good book or playing with your children in the sand. Don't forget to apply sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun. In Normandy, the sun is strong too!  

For lovers of paddling, the waters of the English Channel are ideal and refreshing. For dads and moms hens, don't worry, children can swim in complete safety in areas supervised by lifeguard stations. Find their location at the end of the article. 

For sports tribes looking for more invigorating activities, consult the page of our nautical activities and try your hand at paddleboarding, windsurfing, jet-skiing. On our territory, the local sailing schools offer courses adapted to all levels, from beginners to the most experienced. An excellent opportunity for you and your children to discover new passions and fully enjoy the sea. 

2. Beach activities for children and adults 

On our territory, our seaside resorts offer many activities to practice during the summer holidays. Need examples?  

• Le Club Cabourg which offers a multitude of activities to do with family or friends such as golf, aquagym, horse riding. A detailed program lists all the activities available according to age. The little extra: booking can be done online
• Le Fitness plage in Merville-Franceville-Plage, to start the morning gently with a session of yoga, Pilates or muscle toning
• Le Pump track, located very close to the sea always near Merville-Franceville-Plage, to enjoy the joys of skiing, always with wheels but never without a helmet! 

During the summer holidays, 3 key moments promote imagination and family cooperation. And luckily, they take place on our beaches: 

• The Sea Stars, to unleash his creativity and paint the horizon from the Cabourg Marcel Proust Walk
• The contest A fort against the sea, more physical, which consists of building the fort that will resist the onslaught of the tide the longest
• The sandcastle competition, a mixture of physical strength and creativity, during which the most beautiful construction of sand is elected. 

3. Walks and walks along the coast 

The surroundings of Cabourg, Houlgate and Merville-Franceville-Plage have paths and cycle paths. You can choose to discover the territory by borrowing for example:  

• Trails and pedestrian circuits along the beach such as our circuit of Black Cows cliffs
• La Velomaritime to discover the Orne estuary and the coast on two wheels. 

The other good idea for an outing to discover the natural beauty of our territory is on horseback. The equestrian centers of the three seaside resorts offer rides supervised by experienced instructors. A unique way to explore the surroundings while enjoying an enriching family experience. Already done ? Then try the bullster or even the sulky! Guaranteed sensations! 

4. Cultural discoveries 

If you want to add a cultural touch between two swims or sunbathing sessions, you will not be disappointed. Cabourg, Houlgate and Merville-Franceville-Plage are not lacking in charm.  

You can start by discovering the photographs of the festival Women expose themselves. It takes place on the beach and in the town of Houlgate. You can also participate in guided tours to learn more about the history and culture of the region. Accompanied by a tour guide, you explore the charming streets of the municipalities of our territory, discover the seaside villas and listen to fascinating stories about the past of these seaside resorts. A great way to mix family fun and education. 

If you prefer to stroll through the picturesque streets on your own, the circuits and trails of the tourist office will be your best walking companions.