The Beaches of Sept-Îles: An Exceptional Coastline on the Côte-Nord
The beaches of Sept-Îles are without a doubt one of Québec Maritime’s best-kept treasures. Here, the coastline stretches as far as the eye can see, between golden dunes and an endless horizon. Far from the bustle of large seaside resorts, Sept-Îles offers a peaceful and natural experience where the sea meets the boreal forest in a breathtaking setting. Staying at Hôtels Gouverneur Sept-Îles gives you easy access to the region’s main beaches, a rare privilege for travellers seeking salty air, wide-open spaces, and authenticity.
The Sea in Every Season: Sept-Îles, a Coastal Destination Year-Round
Enjoying the beach in Sept-Îles is much more than a summer pastime, it’s a year-round experience that transforms with the seasons. In summer, the sea welcomes swimmers, paddleboarders, and kayakers. Long, sunny days invite you to relax on the warm sand, lulled by the gentle sound of the waves. Monaghan and Ferguson Beaches become havens of relaxation, perfect for a family afternoon or a romantic sunset stroll.
As autumn settles in, the coastline is set ablaze with colour. The hills glow in shades of orange and red, creating a spectacular contrast with the deep blue of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Hikers relish the calm and the golden light, ideal for capturing stunning photos or simply breathing in the fresh sea air.
In winter, the beaches of Sept-Îles are blanketed in snow and ice. Silence reigns, broken only by the waves beneath the frozen surface. It’s a magical time for introspection, snowshoeing, and witnessing a rare phenomenon, the northern lights dancing across the northern sky.
When spring returns, nature awakens. The tides reveal vast sandbanks, seabirds reappear, and the shoreline slowly comes back to life. It’s the perfect moment to experience Sept-Îles at its most peaceful, before the summer season begins. No matter the time of year, the coast here retains its raw charm and natural elegance.
The Most Beautiful Beaches of Sept-Îles
The Monaghan, Ferguson, Routhier and Lévesque Beach Area
Just minutes from downtown, this vast area brings together four of Sept-Îles’ most spectacular beaches, among the most stunning along the Côte-Nord. Over more than 12 kilometres, fine sand stretches endlessly, offering one of Québec’s most impressive marine panoramas. At low tide, the sandbanks become natural terraces, perfect for walking barefoot in the water or spotting migratory birds. At high tide, the waves grow stronger, adding power and movement to the landscape.
This coastal area is also known for its accessibility and tranquility. Monaghan Beach has recently been made accessible to visitors with reduced mobility thanks to the installation of an adapted access mat. The area is ideal for families, couples, or travellers wishing to breathe in the fresh sea air, all just minutes from our hotel.
The Beach at the Lac des Rapides Outdoor Centre
Located just 15 minutes from downtown, Lac des Rapides Beach Outodoor Centre combines swimming, nature, and outdoor recreation. Visitors can enjoy freshwater swimming under lifeguard supervision during the summer season. The site offers plenty of amenities, including canoe, pedal boat, kayak, and paddleboard rentals. It’s the perfect spot for an active day outdoors with family or friends, while still surrounded by a stunning natural setting.
Even outside the summer months, the site remains a peaceful escape. Trails around the lake offer beautiful viewpoints of the northern forest and coastal terrain, a soothing setting ideal for a reflective walk or a quiet break in nature.
Val-Marguerite Beach in the Clarke City Area
About 30 minutes west of Sept-Îles, Val-Marguerite Beach showcases a wilder, more majestic side of the northern coastline. Stretching nearly 10 kilometres, its golden sand shifts with the tides, at low tide, vast sandbanks invite long walks and quiet contemplation; at high tide, powerful waves evoke the strength of the Atlantic.
This lesser-known beach is especially appreciated by those seeking solitude and wide-open spaces. It’s the perfect place for reflection, photography, or a peaceful picnic with your feet in the sand.
Whether you come to breathe the salty air, walk along warm sand, or simply admire the rhythmic movement of the waves, the beaches of Sept-Îles offer a unique feeling of freedom. Here, nature is both soothing and grand, and each tide invites you to slow down. Staying at Hôtels Gouverneur Sept-Îles is a natural choice, located just minutes from the shoreline, it’s the ideal place to enjoy the coast while staying close to downtown attractions. Book your stay today and let yourself be charmed by the authentic beauty of Québec’s Côte-Nord.
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About the Beaches of Sept-Îles
What’s the best season to enjoy the beach in Sept-Îles?
Each season offers a unique experience. Summer brings sunshine and swimming; autumn dazzles with its fiery colours; winter offers peace and frozen beauty; and spring celebrates the return of birds and the awakening of nature.
Are the beaches in Sept-Îles easy to access?
Yes. Most beaches are located just minutes from downtown. The Monaghan–Ferguson–Routhier–Lévesque area is especially accessible and even includes facilities for visitors with reduced mobility.
Can you swim in the sea at Sept-Îles?
Absolutely. In summer, several beaches are open for swimming, including those in the beach sector and at Lac des Rapides, where lifeguards are on duty during the high season.
Where can I find a quieter beach in Sept-Îles?
Val-Marguerite Beach, in the Clarke City area, is known for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning scenery. It’s less crowded and ideal for visitors seeking solitude and unspoiled nature.
Are the beaches free to access?
Yes. Most beaches in Sept-Îles are public and free of charge, great news for travellers looking to explore the Côte-Nord without restrictions.
What activities can you do on the beaches of Sept-Îles?
Beyond swimming, visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, birdwatching, photography, and water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding. Cyclists will also appreciate the coastal trails connecting several beaches along the shore.
