Courseulles-sur-Mer offers different perspectives on the coast: the Centre Juno Beach focuses on Canada’s civilian and military war effort and the various fronts of the Second World War. At the same time, marshland, coastal paths and protected beach areas shape the town.
Juno Beach and Parc Juno
Parc Juno is open to all visitors year-round; nevertheless, check whether any temporary restrictions apply before your visit. Its signposted coastal path provides information about the area’s natural richness and historical character. The park contains remnants of the Atlantic Wall, including a bunker and underground galleries leading to rooms in a former German headquarters.
The Centre Juno Beach presents Canada’s civilian and military war effort and the various fronts of the Second World War. It also has the “Explore Juno” family trail for young visitors; check what is currently on display before your visit. The Centre offers guided bunker tours from April to October. Dates may vary from year to year, so it is worth checking the information for the year you plan to travel.
Marshland, Coastal Path and Beach
The seven-hectare Parc de l’Edit lies on the eastern edge of Courseulles-sur-Mer, in a marshland area just a few steps from the sea. Footpaths cross the park and are suitable for walks; a bridleway leads to the beach. Parc Juno and Parc de l’Edit offer different points of interest: one focuses on the coastal landscape and history, while the other has paths through marshland and a link to the beach.
Plage Plaisance, on the Centre Juno Beach side, is a more natural beach. Protected ringed plovers regularly nest there. Small white beach huts line the central seafront promenade, which is 600 metres long. Seasonal beach facilities may change. At the end of the harbour is a wooden pier rebuilt after the war, offering panoramic views of the beaches and harbour.
Activities and Water Sports
A Tiralo beach wheelchair is available at each lifeguard station in Courseulles-sur-Mer. With a companion, users can reach the beach, move around there and bathe in calm water. The Vélomaritime runs near the central beach. A dedicated cycle path runs along Avenue de la Combattante and beside the sea from Camping Cap Fun towards Parc de l’Edit. Check route conditions before setting out on a bike ride.
The Ecole de Voile in Courseulles-sur-Mer offers activities ranging from beginner sessions to competitive sports training: land sailing, catamaran and dinghy sailing, windsurfing, stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. The programme also includes boat licence courses. Activity details may vary by season. The Croix de Lorraine car park is located at Plage Plaisance and provides direct access to the beach. If you plan to take part in a water sport, check the rules for getting started beforehand.
Discover more destinations: Annebault, Argences, Dozulé, Tournay-Sur-Odon, Grimbosq, Sainte-Marguerite-De-Viette, Aubigny, Mondeville
For the broader travel guide: Calvados.
