In Saint-Malo, when the tide rises or falls, the effect is spectacular: the stretch of sand reveals itself, the rocks emerge, and the sea can sometimes reach the breakwaters of Le Sillon.
The tidal range, i.e. the gap between the open sea and the low tide, can reach up to 14 meters in Mont-Saint-Michel Bay — a phenomenon amplified by the particular shape of Malouine Bay, which creates a resonance between the rising wave and the reflected wave.
High tide coefficients (often > 95) indicate those days when the sea is as high as it is low, offering magnificent landscapes. This phenomenon is also sought after by fishermen on foot, photographers and those who want to live the Breton experience in its raw state. Discover the forecast schedule of high tides in Saint-Malo and the reasons to come and admire this unique natural show.
The 2026 forecast calendar: important coefficients
For the year 2026, according to The Shom — Marine hydrographic and oceanographic service, here are the dates of the 2026 high tides. Namely:
- Tuesday, February 3, 2026: ≈ 99
- Wednesday February 4, 2026: ≈ 97—99
- Wednesday March 4, 2026: ≈ 99
- Thursday 5 March 2026: ≈ 97—99
- Thursday 19 March 2026: ≈ 97—101
- Friday 20 March 2026: ≈ 103—104
- Saturday March 21, 2026: ≈ 103—104
- Sunday 22 March 2026: ≈ 95—100
- Friday 17 April 2026: ≈ 97—101
- Saturday 18 April 2026: ≈ 104—105
- Sunday 19 April 2026: ≈ 102—104
- Monday 20 April 2026: ≈ 94—99
- Mid-May 2026 : around 97-99
We can anticipate the equinox periods (March and September) as seasons with very high tides (coefficients around 110—120).
Why come and experience a big tide in Saint-Malo?
1. An emotional show
At high tide, the sea slams against the breakwaters and engulfs the Pas du Roy; at low tide, it retreats until kilometers of sand appear. Between high and low tide, the evolution is meteoric: we can see the sea rise at the speed of a galloping horse (up to 8 km/h) in the bay.
2. A lively stroll
When the sea goes down, it is a paradise for fishermen on foot and families: shells, crabs, cockles... Marine flora and rocks are revealed, offering a fascinating playground. And the higher the coefficient, the more impressive the show and the more generous the fishing.
3. An amazing photo backdrop
The golden reflections of a high mirror tide, or the textures of the sand sculpted by the sea at low tide: each hour is a living picture, perfect for beautiful images or sweet memories to bring back.
Our tips for enjoying the show in peace
- Always ask about tide times, via maree.info, The SHOM Or the Saint-Malo Tourist Office, especially for access to the islands on foot (Grand Bé, Petit Bé). Signage is essential.
- Settle in early, to see the sea rising or take a walk on the sand when the sea is gone.
- Be careful around rocks or potentially submersible areas, especially in case of strong wind.
- Combine the walk with a wellness break : after the invigorating air, a session at the Courtoisville Spa or a hot drink at the Baccara Bar.
