The Grande Plage is grand indeed, known for its colorful striped beach huts, beach clubs, stunning views and the luxurious Hôtel du Palais, built by Napoleon III for his wife Eugénie de Montijo as their summer home. Long a destination for the rich and well-connected and close to the town center, it attracts big sunbathing crowds in peak season and serious surfers year-round with a reputation as one of the finest surf spots in Europe.