The Opal Coast is such a wonderful place for a family vacation!
With its endless beaches and numerous enchanting hiking trails, it has nothing to envy of southern France.
Would you like to visit the Opal Coast in just one day? It’s absolutely possible! Our team is delighted to present the “Opal Coast in 1 Day” program, specially crafted for you.
8:00 AM - The Grand Site of the Two Capes
Today is the big day. Head to Calais to explore the Opal Coast. Take a breath, your journey may have taken several hours, but the adventure is just beginning!
Make a stop at Cap Blanc-Nez. Discover its chalk cliffs and stunning views. On a clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of the English coast of Kent.
Head towards Boulogne-sur-Mer along the coast.
Park your car at the Cap Gris-Nez parking lot and breathe in the fresh air!
9:00 AM - The Fortified Town of Boulogne-sur-Mer
The great reputation of Boulogne-sur-Mer is due to its incredible fishing port. One might almost forget its rich historical heritage. Surrounded by ramparts, “the old town” invites you to wander among its monuments and fortifications.
Let yourself be captivated by:
– the cathedral and its crypt;
– the Belfry;
– the castle-museum.
10:30 AM - Head to Nausicaá
The largest aquarium in Europe is located in Boulogne-sur-Mer. Immerse yourself in the depths of the ocean. Sharks, sea lions, jellyfish… both young and old will be amazed!
Numerous exhibitions are organized to raise public awareness about the preservation of marine environments.
Don’t miss the Nausicaá experience! Dive into the oceanic world and admire its rich biodiversity.
Our advice
If you want to visit Nausicaá properly, we recommend dedicating a full morning to it. This place is full of mysteries waiting to be discovered. It's a shame to rush through it due to time constraints. You can postpone your visit to Nausicaá and take a stroll along the banks of the Liane River, which are designed for pleasant family walks.
12:30 PM - Lunch in Wimereux
Is your mind still wandering through the depths of the ocean? The magic of Nausicaá has worked its charm! However, it’s time to leave the largest aquarium in Europe and fill your stomach: next stop, Wimereux!
Every year, the oldest seaside resort on the Opal Coast attracts many tourists. Perfect for family vacations and water sports enthusiasts, Wimereux offers a setting that is both peaceful and lively.
We’ve handpicked a selection of carefully chosen restaurants for you:
- Aloze Atlantic, a seafood restaurant facing the sea;
- Le Ranch, for grill lovers (vegetarians welcome);
- Le Thaï Curry, specializing in Thai cuisine (vegan-friendly).
1:30 PM - Take a stroll in Wimereux
After the meal, taking a deep breath of fresh sea air is truly refreshing. As a family, take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, admiring the typical architecture of the seafront façades.
You can’t miss the famous beach cabins. This Wimereusian tradition has not been lost. On the contrary, it continues to enjoy incredible success today!
2:45 PM - Hike in Le Touquet-Paris-Plage
After a 40-minute drive, you’ll arrive at Le Touquet-Paris-Plage. Once you’ve parked your vehicle near the forest, put on your walking shoes and head out on the Pine Cone Loop (5 km)!
As you walk, you’ll follow forest trails. From the location “the Dune aux Loups,” enjoy views of Étaples and the Baie de Canche.
If you’re visiting the Opal Coast between May and September, both amateur and experienced birdwatchers will appreciate the guided tour, “Seaside Birds.”
5:00 PM - Explore the town center of Le Touquet-Paris-Plage
Now it’s time to explore the historical and architectural heritage of this renowned seaside resort.
Want to do some shopping? Head to Avenue Saint-Jean. The shopfronts will surely catch your eye!
Feeling like having a drink on a terrace? The cheerful atmosphere of Le Touquet-Paris-Plage makes it the perfect destination to relax with a refreshing drink.
7:00 PM - Dinner in Le Touquet-Paris-Plage
Before ending this wonderful day on the Opal Coast, we suggest dining in the lovely town of Le Touquet-Paris-Plage:
- Le Paris, a restaurant offering French and European cuisine;
- L’Espadrille, specializing in French and Spanish dishes (vegetarians and vegans welcome).
8:45 PM - It's time to head back
All good things must come to an end… But you can’t escape the tradition: once you leave the Opal Coast, you always come back! As a little bonus, if you’d like to stay overnight, we recommend a popular guesthouse with a spa and private pool, La Fenardière.
To make sure you don’t miss any of the stunning landscapes of the Opal Coast, check out our 3-day and 1-week itineraries!