Things To Do
in Paramé
Paramé is the seaside quarter on the eastern side of Saint-Malo on Brittany’s Emerald Coast, known for long sandy beaches, a lively seafront promenade and classic seaside villas. Once a separate resort town, Paramé retains a slightly quieter, family-friendly vibe compared with Intra‑Muros while offering easy access to Saint‑Malo’s historic old town. The tidal range and maritime climate shape daily life here—beaches, thalassotherapy centers and seafood restaurants are central to the experience.
Paramé is an excellent base for coastal walks on the GR34, oyster tasting trips to Cancale and short ferry hops to the Channel Islands in summer.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing stroll along the stunning beaches of Paramé, where golden sands meet the sparkling sea. Enjoy the gentle sound of waves and perhaps spot some early morning surfers catching their first ride. Delight in a breakfast at a nearby café, savoring fresh pastries and aromatic coffee while taking in the coastal view.
In the afternoon, unwind under the sun with a beach picnic or partake in activities such as beach volleyball and paddleboarding. Explore the nearby rock pools at low tide, discovering the diverse marine life that calls this coastline home. As the sun begins to dip, enjoy a leisurely walk along the promenade, feeling the soft ocean breeze.
As twilight descends, find a beachfront restaurant to dine with a view of the sunset over the water. Taste the local seafood specialties, paired with a delightful glass of French wine, while sharing stories with fellow travelers. After dinner, take a romantic stroll along the beach, watching the stars twinkle above.
After breakfast, take a short walk or bike ride to the historic city of Saint-Malo, famed for its fortified walls and rich maritime history. Spend your morning wandering through the cobblestone streets, visiting local shops and admiring the stunning architecture of the old town. Don’t miss a visit to the impressive Château de Saint-Malo for panoramic views of the coast.
After exploring, grab lunch at one of the picturesque cafés and treat yourself to a classic Galette, a savory buckwheat pancake filled with local ingredients. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the city’s beaches or visiting the intriguing maritime museum to learn about Saint-Malo's role in seafaring history. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this coastal gem, filled with the sounds of laughter and waves.
As evening approaches, find a spot along the ramparts to watch the sunset paint the sky in shades of orange and pink. Choose a cozy restaurant for dinner, where you can indulge in a variety of local dishes, including fresh seafood and rich desserts. Cap off the night with a stroll through the illuminated streets, soaking in the enchanting ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee (café) | $3-5 |
| 🏨Midrange hotel (per night) | $80-160 |
| 🚖Short taxi ride | $8-20 |
| 🚌Local bus ticket | $1.50-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful seaside promenade and wide sandy beaches
- Excellent seafood and Breton culinary traditions
- Great base for coastal walks (GR34) and nearby attractions like Cancale
- Easier pace than the busier Intra‑Muros while still close to Saint‑Malo amenities
- Can get crowded in peak summer and accommodation prices rise
- Weather can be unpredictable and windy even in summer
- Limited nightlife compared with larger cities—best for relaxed evenings
- Tidal danger: some areas can be cut off by high tide if you aren’t careful
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Où est la plage ?" - Where is the beach?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
- "Demat" - Hello (Breton greeting)
Places to Visit in Paramé
Visit one of these nice places.
Long sandy beach and the promenade offer sunrise and sunset photos, dramatic skies and people enjoying the tides.
Panoramic views over the bay, the harbor and the island forts—excellent for wide coastal shots and golden hour lighting.
Low‑tide patterns, working shellfish harvesters and rustic stakes create intimate coastal scenes—especially photogenic at dawn.
Detail shots of tidal pools, reflections and seaweed textures, plus dramatic waves on windy days.
Fortified structures off the coast (visible from the shore) and marina scenes provide maritime historic context and moody compositions.
Food in Paramé
Paramé Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
World‑famous oysters harvested in nearby Cancale—best enjoyed raw on the half shell with a squeeze of lemon at portside stalls or oyster bars in Cancale and Saint‑Malo.
Must-Try!
Savory buckwheat crepes filled with ham, cheese and egg or local seafood; widely available at crêperies around Paramé and Intra‑Muros.
Fresh mussels cooked in white wine or cream—common on bistro menus, especially during high season when mussel beds are productive.
Salted butter caramel used in desserts and as a spread; a Breton specialty to taste or buy at markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Smaller seasonal markets along the seafront selling fresh fish, shellfish, local cheeses and baked goods during summer weekends.
Larger, year‑round market in Intra‑Muros with fishmongers, charcuterie, produce and artisan stalls—great for assembling a picnic or sampling local specialties.
Street crepe stands and oyster stalls (in Cancale and near the harbor) offer quick, authentic bites—perfect for a casual seaside meal.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always say Bonjour (or Bonsoir) when entering shops or greeting locals; it’s considered polite and opens interactions more warmly.
Cheek kisses (la bise) are common among acquaintances—wait for locals to initiate; otherwise a handshake is acceptable. Respect personal space and a moderate tone of voice in public.
Keep hands visible (but not elbows on the table) and wait to be invited to start eating. Saying Merci and S'il vous plaît is expected.
Tides and wildlife are important—follow signs, do not disturb protected zones, and take your trash with you from beaches and trails.
Safety
Tipping in Paramé
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is usually included in restaurant bills (service compris). Rounding up small amounts or leaving a few euros for excellent service is appreciated but not mandatory. Taxi drivers and portable service staff appreciate small tips.
Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Carry some cash for small market stalls, oyster shacks or remote vendors. ATMs are available in Saint‑Malo.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warmest, sunniest season with beach activity, boat trips and open markets—expect crowds on weekends and higher prices. Book accommodation early; bring sun protection and light layers for cool evenings.
Mild temperatures and dramatic skies make for excellent coastal walks and photography; some tourist services reduce hours but seafood and cider are still outstanding.
Quiet, colder and windier with fewer tourists—good for storm‑watching and low‑season rates, but some attractions and restaurants may be closed; dress warmly and check tide schedules.
Blossoming landscapes and mild weather return—ideal for cycling and walking before summer crowds arrive; bring a waterproof layer as showers are common.
Paramé at Night
Hiking in Paramé
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic path following the coastline—choose short day sections from Paramé toward Pointe du Moulinet or further along the Emerald Coast for clifftop views and varied terrain.
A scenic headland with panoramic views over Mont‑Saint‑Michel Bay and the Breton coast—excellent for birdwatching and dramatic photo opportunities.
A more ambitious day excursion (~30–40 km): high cliffs, heather moors and a striking lighthouse—one of Brittany’s most photographed coastal landscapes.
Gentler riverside paths along the Rance provide calm flora and fauna spotting, ideal for easy hikes and cycling close to the water.
Airports
How to reach Paramé by plane.
The closest regional airport (about 10–15 km), serving seasonal flights and with shuttle/bus connections to Saint‑Malo—convenient for short transfers.
Major regional airport ~60–80 km away with more frequent domestic and international connections; train or bus links to Saint‑Malo make it a practical option.
Larger international airport further away (~150 km) offering many routes—useful if flying from farther afield, with car or train connections to reach Saint‑Malo.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long‑term residents with deep regional ties, often involved in fishing, hospitality or local trades; Breton identity remains culturally important.
Many Parisians and other French residents own holiday homes in the area, increasing seasonal population and local demand in summer.
Domestic and international visitors peak in summer, attracted by beaches, historic sites and coastal cuisine.
A noticeable retired population enjoying the mild maritime climate, local clubs and slower pace of life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Sailing and boating are popular with schools, clubs and private charters using the bay and nearby islands throughout the warmer months.
Where conditions allow, wind and waves attract surfers and kitesurfers along exposed stretches of the Emerald Coast.
Like much of France, rugby and football are widely followed and played at community level; local clubs and school teams are active.
Trail running and long coastal hikes on the GR34 are common activities for locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Paramé.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian choices are available—many crêperies offer vegetable and cheese galettes; markets supply fresh produce and cheeses. Ask for omelette/galette variations and seasonal vegetable dishes.
Vegan options are more limited but increasing: vegetable galettes (confirm butter/egg), salads and market produce. Notify restaurants in advance to accommodate requests.
Buckwheat galettes are naturally gluten‑free in many places but check for cross‑contamination. Fish and meat dishes can be safe choices; notify staff about celiac needs.
Seafood is prominent—always inform servers of shellfish or fish allergies. Pharmacies and medical help are available locally if needed.