There’s something magical about Dinard. Maybe it’s the light – that soft, golden shimmer on the water in the late afternoon – or the way the sea breeze smells faintly of pine and salt. Either way, if you’re dreaming of a quick getaway that feels like a real break, Dinard is a gem on the Emerald Coast that ticks all the right boxes. Whether you’re coming for the beaches, the walks, or just to breathe a little, here’s how to make the most of a weekend in Dinard, without rushing a thing.
First things first : where to stay. Dinard has no shortage of cozy spots, from boutique hotels overlooking the bay to charming local rentals. If you prefer a quieter, more local vibe, take a look at https://gites-dinard.com – a great resource for finding authentic gîtes and holiday homes around Dinard. I used it last summer and honestly, it saved me a ton of scrolling and second-guessing. You can filter by location, budget, even sea view (which, let’s be honest, makes morning coffee way better).
Start with the seaside stroll everyone talks about
One of the absolute must-dos ? The Promenade du Clair de Lune. It’s not just a walk – it’s a mood. You follow the curve of the coast, palm trees swaying above, boats bobbing in the distance, and sometimes a saxophonist playing near the casino (true story). The view toward Saint-Malo across the bay is pure postcard material. Go early in the morning or around sunset ; both have their charm. And if you’re into photos, bring your camera – the light is unreal.
Lunch with a view (and maybe a crêpe or two)
Food in Dinard is a whole experience. You’ll find some lovely spots like Le Balafon or L’Abri des Flots right near the water, serving fresh seafood that’ll make you rethink what “fish of the day” means. I once had scallops there that I still think about. If you’re more into simple pleasures, grab a galette from a local crêperie and sit on the beach steps. It’s relaxed, it’s local, it’s Dinard.
Afternoon : take it slow, you’re on the Emerald Coast
Once you’ve eaten, don’t rush anywhere. That’s the beauty of Dinard – it invites you to slow down. Maybe rent a bike and follow the coastal path toward Saint-Lunaire, or take a short boat ride to Saint-Malo (the crossing takes 10 minutes, tops). The sea air, the cliffs, the rhythm of the tides – it’s all part of the experience.
And if the weather turns (because, well, Brittany), duck into one of the local art galleries or the Marché des Halles. The market’s open every morning except Monday, and you can taste local cheese, cider, and salted butter caramel that’ll ruin supermarket versions for you forever.
Evening vibes : sunset and sea breeze
There’s no better way to wrap up the day than watching the sun dip behind Saint-Malo from Plage de l’Écluse. The colors – pinks, blues, gold – it’s like someone turned the saturation up on the world. Grab a drink from one of the beach bars, kick off your shoes, and just watch. This is the kind of simple moment you come to Dinard for. No noise, no rush, just that quiet joy of being exactly where you’re meant to be.
Bonus : little tips for a stress-free weekend
- Parking can be tricky in summer – get there early or book a stay with private parking if possible.
- Bring a windbreaker – even on sunny days, the sea breeze can surprise you.
- Don’t overplan. Seriously. Half the charm of Dinard is wandering around and stumbling on places you didn’t expect.
Whether you’re coming for 48 hours or stretching it into a long weekend, Dinard has that rare mix of elegance and simplicity that’s hard to find. You won’t need to chase activities here – just let the coast set the pace. And trust me, you’ll leave already planning when to come back.
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