how to spend a day in st malo with kids
St. Malo, the stunning walled city on the Brittany coast, is a fantastic destination for families. With its golden beaches, pirate history, and exciting attractions, it offers plenty to keep kids entertained. Whether you're visiting for a day or longer, here’s how to make the most of your time in St. Malo with children.
St. Malo is a historic port city located in Brittany, north western France, on the English Channel coast. It is part of the Ille-et-Vilaine department and is known for its stunning walled old town, sandy beaches, and rich maritime history.
We spent the day here whilst we were holidaying in Brittany in July 2024. It was one of the most popular attractions in the area which also made it the busiest. Thankfully with the beach conveniently below the ramparts, its easy to escape the crowd and hit the beach.
Exploring the Walled City & Pirate Adventures
Walk the Ramparts
Start your day with a walk along the ancient city walls, offering breath taking views of the sea and the old town. Kids will love spotting boats, fortresses, and secret staircases leading down to the cobbled streets below. This was the kids favourite part of the day (apart from the beach of course!)
Best entrance: Porte St. Vincent (main city gate)
Visit the Privateer’s House (La Demeure de Corsaire)
St. Malo has a legendary past filled with pirates and privateers. Take a guided tour of this 18th-century shipowner’s mansion to hear exciting tales of treasure, secret hideouts, and naval battles.
Tours available in English during peak season.
Snack Break: Try a Breton Treat
Before heading to the beach, stop at a local bakery for a kouign-amann (a buttery Breton pastry) or a salted caramel crepe.
A City by the Sea
Beyond the walls, the town opens up to golden sandy beaches, dramatic tidal islands, and the ever-changing blue of the English Channel. The tides here are among the highest in Europe, revealing rocky outcrops and pathways to places like Grand Bé, where famous writer Chateaubriand is buried.
St. Malo is a town that feels alive with history, yet it’s also welcoming and relaxed—a place where you can explore, unwind, and soak in the magic of Brittany’s coast.
Beach & Rock Pool Adventures
Enjoy Sillon Beach or Bon-Secours Beach
St. Malo has fantastic family-friendly beaches, perfect for sandcastle building, paddling, and collecting seashells.
Plage du Sillon – Long, sandy beach great for running and playing.
Plage de Bon-Secours – Features a sea-water swimming pool and a diving board for older kids.
Walk to Grand Bé Island (at Low Tide!)
At low tide, you can walk across the sand to Grand Bé, a small island with amazing views and rock pools full of crabs and tiny sea creatures. Just be sure to check the tide times!
Cobbled Streets & Hidden Corners
Inside the old walls, St. Malo’s narrow, winding streets are perfect for wandering. Small alleyways lead to hidden courtyards, charming boutiques, and traditional Breton crêperies where the scent of butter and sugar fills the air. The Place Chateaubriand, near the main gate, is a lively square lined with cafés where you can sip coffee and watch the world go by.
Le Petit Train de Saint-Malo
One of the best ways to explore St. Malo—especially with kids or if you want a relaxing tour—is by hopping on Le Petit Train de Saint-Malo. This charming little tourist train offers a guided journey through the town’s fascinating history, winding through the cobbled streets and along the scenic coastline.
What to Expect on the Tour
Duration: About 30–40 minutes
Languages: Commentary available in French, English, Spanish, and German
Starting Point: Esplanade Saint-Vincent (near the main gate of the old town)
Route Highlights:
The historic Intra-Muros (walled town)
Stunning views of the ramparts and beaches
The story of pirates & privateers
Fort National & the tides of St. Malo
Prices (approximate):
Adults: €7-8
Children (under 12): €4-5
Free for kids under 3 years
Schedule:
Operates March to November, with daily departures in peak season.
Runs every 30-45 minutes during busy periods.
