A family beach in the heart of the Baie de la Forêt
Cap Coz beach stretches over 1.5 kilometres of fine sand at the head of the Baie de la Forêt, facing Concarneau. Sheltered from the prevailing winds by the Pointe de Beg-Meil, the water here is remarkably calm, often compared to a lake. Its south-facing aspect means the sea temperature is noticeably warmer than on other beaches along the Finistère coast.
The beach in pictures
Photos: Wikimedia Commons (Creative Commons licence)
⭐ 4.6/5 – Over 1,200 visitor reviews (Tripadvisor)
⭐ "A true little corner of paradise for anyone who loves long walks on the beach. Optimists, catamarans and sailing boats share this beautiful bay."
– Magaly F.⭐ "The water is crystal clear, with shades of blue of rare beauty that contrast with the surprisingly white, fine sand. One of the most beautiful beaches in France!"
– Sophie & Yannick⭐ "The ultimate family-friendly spot in summer. The absence of shops gives it that special, serene charm. The song of the turtle dove at dawn, the sound of halyards clinking against the masts..."
– Catet G.⭐ "I discovered photography on this beach in the early morning. Six letters and already so many memories."
– Charlotte P.
Free parking and access by car or bus
By car
From the centre of Fouesnant, take the D45 towards the coast. Follow the signs for "Cap Coz" on your left. The drive takes just 5 minutes.
Several free car parks are available: parking spaces line the beach, and additional car parks can be found set back from the seafront. Local tip: the car park at the Centre Nautique (1 chemin de Kersentic) rarely fills up, even in the height of August. It is the best option to avoid driving around looking for a space.
A cycle path also links the centre of Fouesnant to Cap Coz, perfect for a bike ride.
By public transport
The BreizhGo line 942 serves Cap Coz from Quimper in about 17 minutes. The "Cap Coz Centre Nautique" stop is just steps from the beach. Departures run from 7:10 AM to 7:24 PM on weekdays. Check timetables at breizhgo.bzh.
Bringing your dog: the rules
Dogs are not allowed on the beach from 1 June to 30 September (Finistère prefectural order). Outside this period, they are welcome.
In summer, a good alternative is to walk the GR34 coastal paths with your dog on a lead, where you can enjoy gorgeous views of the bay without breaking the rules. The fine for non-compliance is 38 euros.
Swimming safely: water quality and tides
Thanks to its south-facing aspect and the natural shelter of the bay, Cap Coz enjoys calm water that is warmer than the Breton average. Bathing water quality is rated "Excellent" by the French Ministry of Health (2025 results, based on 14 samples).
The beach has lifeguard cover from 1 July to 31 August, from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
As for the tides: at low tide, a huge expanse of sand is revealed, perfect for beach games and shellfish gathering. At high tide, the strip of sand narrows considerably. Check the tide times for Fouesnant before your visit.
As for green algae: they are not an issue at Cap Coz. The local council clears them every morning during the summer season.
Labels: Blue Flag, Handiplage (beach wheelchair available), Smoke-free beach since 2016.
Showers, toilets and on-site facilities
Cap Coz beach has a full range of facilities for your comfort:
- Freshwater showers
- Public toilets
- Wheelchair-accessible entry and beach wheelchair available
- Free WiFi
- Sun lounger and pedalo hire
- Mickey children's club (July–August)
- Boat launch slipway
Kayaking, paddleboarding and sailing in the Baie de la Forêt
The Centre Nautique de Fouesnant Cornouaille is located right at Cap Coz, on the edge of the beach.
- Address: 1 chemin de Kersentic, 29170 Fouesnant
- Phone: 02 98 56 01 05
- Open: 6 January to 19 December
The centre offers a wide range of water sports suitable for ages 4 and up:
- Sailing: dinghy, catamaran, windsurfing with or without foil
- Paddling: sea kayak, stand-up paddleboard (SUP)
- Board sports: wingfoil, kitesurfing
- Wellbeing: aqua walking, sea aquagym
- Excursions: cruises to the Glénan Islands by catamaran
You will also find land yachting, beach volleyball and scuba diving on site or nearby.
The best restaurants overlooking the sea
Hôtel-Restaurant Belle-Vue
A 3-star Logis hotel, the Belle-Vue overlooks the beach and offers a panoramic view of the Baie de Concarneau. Chef Yves Kernévez serves creative cuisine built around seafood and local producers.
- Address: 30 Descente de Bellevue, 29170 Fouesnant
- Phone: 02 98 56 00 33
- Menu: from 46 euros
- Open: 24 March to 31 October, dinner from 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM (closed on Mondays)
Les Pieds dans l'Eau
A crêperie-brasserie sitting literally on the seafront, Les Pieds dans l'Eau serves crêpes made on traditional biligs in an unbeatable setting, all at a reasonable price.
- Address: 2 avenue de la Pointe du Cap-Coz, 29170 Fouesnant
- Phone: 02 98 56 50 90
- Rating: 4.1/5 (over 1,800 reviews)
Stay with your feet in the sand
Our holiday rentals are located right by Cap Coz beach. You enjoy direct access to the beach and a reserved parking space.