The beaches of the Opal Coast

Oye-Plage offers the largest beach in the region, with an 11-kilometre stretch of fine sand and no buildings along the shoreline. Simply bordered by dunes, it forms an unspoilt coastline of exceptional quality.

In the Audruicq – Oye-Plage area

Facing the North Sea, swept by the winds, Oye-Plage stretches out its long beaches of pale sand like a never-ending breath. The dunes whisper secrets of salt and light, watched over by wild grasses bending to the passing sea breezes.

IHere, the sea advances slowly, edging the horizon with fragile foam, then withdraws in silence, leaving behind the mirror of ever-changing skies.

It is a place of gentle renewal, where the world fades away, leaving only footsteps, the wind, and the endless song of the water.

Escardines Beach, ideal for families

Nature and biodiversity

Escardines Beach, located in the commune of Oye-Plage, lies at the heart of a protected natural environment. It stretches for around 11 km, making it one of the largest beaches in the region. It has remained completely natural, with no buildings or facilities, delighting nature lovers and those seeking fresh, invigorating sea air. It is perfect for relaxing, walking and breathing freely.

Bordered by a dune ridge, the beach lies just behind the Réserve Naturelle Nationale du Platier d’Oye, a protected area rich in biodiversity, with dunes, sandbanks, wetlands, marram grass, sea buckthorn and many migratory birds.

At low tide, the sea retreats far back, revealing a vast expanse of sand ideal for long walks, as well as sandcastles, kite flying, horse riding and fishing.

The seals of the Opal Coast

These protected marine animals made a strong comeback in the early 2000s after having disappeared from the coastline in the 1970s. Seals have now resettled along our shores, where they find all the resources they need to live peacefully, in tune with the tides. Their presence attracts many curious visitors and nature lovers throughout the year, delighted to observe these endearing marine mammals in their natural habitat.

At low tide, you may spot one or more seals lying on the sand. It is essential to keep your distance and admire them from afar, at a minimum distance of 300 metres.

At high tide, you will need to look more carefully to catch sight of their heads occasionally emerging above the water. To make the most of the experience, remember to bring binoculars.

Good to know!

Remember to check the tide times: at low tide, the sea can be very far away, it has to be earned.

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Protected environment

Nature, its wildlife and plant life must be respected.

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Supervised beach

In summer (July and August), part of the beach is supervised, making it ideal for safe swimming.

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Pets

Dogs on a leash are allowed outside the swimming area.

Location & access

The car park providing access to the beach is located in the hamlet of Les Escardines. It is farther away than some more urban beaches, which helps preserve its peaceful atmosphere.

From the car park, access is via a wooden staircase overlooking the dunes and offering a magnificent 360° panorama. Reaching the beach may require a short walk from the car park.

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Nearby parking

Escardines Beach – Avenue du Platier – 62215 Oye-Plage

Abri-Côtier Beach (also known as Casino Beach)

Ideal for birdwatching

Integrated into the western part of the Réserve Naturelle Nationale du Platier d’Oye, Abri-Côtier Beach is a timeless sandy beach, far from lively resorts and ideal for recharging your batteries. Surrounded by white dunes and scrub-covered dunes, you will appreciate its natural, unspoilt character. Fairly open, it is well suited to walking and bird observation.

Among the bird species that can be observed are waders, terns, passerines in the backshore area, as well as little and ringed plovers, emblematic species of the Reserve. In the shrubby areas, stay alert, you may be lucky enough to hear or spot linnets, skylarks, snow buntings in winter, warblers or nightingales.

The Kentish Plover
a very discreet beach bird!

This small coastal wader is a species that is particularly sensitive to disturbance, especially due to human activity on beaches. Highly skilled at camouflage and blending into its surroundings, it is difficult to spot on sandy shores. It favours open, vegetation-free environments such as the upper beach where sea wrack accumulates. Sandy beaches and the base of dunes provide ideal nesting areas for plover pairs.

During the breeding season (April to August), please remain vigilant, respect protected areas, and watch where you step to avoid disturbing these birds.