The largest and most popular beach area near Lyon, Lac de Miribel-Jonage has sandy shores, grassy lawns, and a huge recreational park. It’s perfect for swimming, cycling, and family outings, with lifeguarded swimming zones.
Location: Northeast of Lyon, ~15 km from city center
Getting There: Bus 83 or car (~30 minutes)
Best For: Families, sports, full-day outings
Facilities: Lifeguards, picnic areas, rentals, cafés
In the city center, the redeveloped Rhône riverbanks offer grassy patches and sunbathing decks where locals relax in summer. While swimming in the river isn’t permitted, it has a “beach” feel with deckchairs, bars, and cycling paths.
Location: Central Lyon, along the Rhône
Getting There: Walking distance from Presqu’île and Part-Dieu
Best For: Urban picnics, sunbathing, evening hangouts
Facilities: Lawns, benches, riverside cafés
A scenic lake beach surrounded by forested hills, Lac des Sapins is known for its sandy shore and eco-friendly swimming pool, said to be Europe’s largest biological pool. It’s ideal for families and nature lovers.
Location: Haut Beaujolais, ~70 km from Lyon
Getting There: Car (1 hr 15 min drive)
Best For: Families, eco-friendly swimming, nature
Facilities: Sandy beach, picnic areas, cafés, boat rentals
A popular leisure base on the Rhône, Condrieu has artificial lakes with sandy beaches, slides, and water activities. It’s especially loved by families and groups looking for a fun day outdoors.
Location: Condrieu, ~45 km south of Lyon
Getting There: Car (about 45 minutes)
Best For: Water sports, families, group outings
Facilities: Waterslides, lifeguards, snack bars, rentals
While not a swimming beach, the large lake inside Lyon’s most famous park is a summer gathering point. Locals relax on the lawns, rent boats, or enjoy picnics in a green setting, creating a beach-like atmosphere within the city.
Location: Central Lyon, 6th arrondissement
Getting There: Metro A to Masséna or Foch
Best For: Picnics, boating, relaxing afternoons
Facilities: Boat rentals, playgrounds, cafés
Another part of the Grand Parc Miribel-Jonage, Anse Plage is a sandy section on the lake’s edge, offering a true beach feel with swimming areas and rentals.
Location: Grand Parc Miribel-Jonage
Getting There: Bus or car from Lyon (~30 minutes)
Best For: Swimming, sunbathing, family visits
Facilities: Sandy beach, lifeguards, cafés
Lyon may not have a coastline, but its lakes and riverside parks ensure summer is far from dull. From the sandy shores of Miribel-Jonage and Condrieu to family escapes like Lac des Sapins, and even urban hangouts along the Rhône, the city offers a mix of natural and city beaches perfect for cooling off after a day of sightseeing.