Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is the main seaside town of the Camargue, located between wetlands, lagoons, and the Mediterranean. It’s a popular base for exploring the region, known for its wide sandy beaches, marina, and seasonal atmosphere.

In summer, the town becomes busy, with crowds filling its narrow streets, restaurants, and seafront. Despite this, it retains a certain charm, with whitewashed houses, orange-tiled roofs, and a strong connection to local traditions.

The town is also an important pilgrimage site. Each May, it hosts the Gypsy pilgrimage, celebrating the legendary arrival of the Three Marys and Sara-la-Kâli, patron saint of the Romani people. This event brings music, processions, and a very different energy to the town.

Along the coast, beaches stretch east in long sandy curves, popular for swimming, kitesurfing, and windsurfing, while the port offers boat trips into the Camargue’s lagoons.

This is not a quiet village, but it works well if you want easy access to the Camargue with services, beaches, and activities nearby.

👉 Local Tip: Stay overnight rather than visiting during the day. The atmosphere changes in the evening once day-trippers leave, and the town feels much more relaxed.