Life’s a beach

This summer, for the 13th year, the banks of the River Seine will become the urban beach known as Paris-Plages. From 20 July to 23 August, 5,000 tons of sand will transform quaysides of central Paris and the Bassin de la Villette into pedestrianised seaside paradises.

For that month the beach becomes a focal point for summer fun, making humid city life more tolerable for those not escaping to the coast or mountains. If you’re planning a trip to the capital, pack your flip-flops and beach towel and join the Parisians as they sunbathe, play volleyball, dance, watch concerts and do tai chi on the temporary beaches.

Sea dogs should make their destination the Bassin de la Villette in the 19th arrondissement, where you can kayak or hire a pedal boat at the watersports complex. Wearing a stripy Breton jersey is optional.

http://en.parisinfo.com