For decades, swimming in the Marne was more a matter of nostalgia than a summer plan. In Neuilly-sur-Marne, this vision will become a reality on July 4, 2026, with the opening of La Rive de Neuilly, a new natural swimming area developed near the marina. A small local revolution, but also a powerful symbol for the entire Seine-Saint-Denis department.
A natural swimming area just 25 minutes from Paris
Back in 1937, Neuilly-sur-Marne had already opened a popular municipal beach, at a time when the banks of the Marne were among the main recreational areas for residents of the Île-de-France region. People would come here to spend the day, go swimming, dance, enjoy the open-air dance halls, and experience that vacation atmosphere without leaving the Paris region. Nearly 90 years later, the return of swimming in this area is underway!
The new space will take the form of a secure area of approximately 300 square meters, supervised by lifeguards and equipped with a first-aid station. Two floating pools will cater to different groups: one 25 meters long, with a depth of 1.80 meters, and another 10 meters long, designed with two more accessible levels, including a shallow end at 40 centimeters. This will allow both swimmers and families to enjoy the river in a supervised setting.
Along the river, colorful changing cabins, an access ramp, and a launch facility for people with limited mobility will be in place for the opening, with the goal of creating a true small urban beach rather than just a temporary swimming area. Swimming will be by reservation only, in two-hour time slots, to manage visitor numbers and ensure a pleasant experience for all.
This opening comes amid a broader trend: following major efforts to improve water quality in the Seine and Marne rivers, several swimming spots are gradually reappearing in the Île-de-France region.
La Rive de Neuilly will be open from July 4 to August 30, 2026, with intentionally low prices: free for children under 4, reduced rates for local residents, and low-cost time slots on weekdays. The opening ceremony, scheduled for July 4 at 2 p.m., will officially kick off the season with entertainment, soft-serve ice cream, a raffle, and the first swims of the season.
La Rive de Neuilly – Marina, Neuilly-sur-Marne
July 4–August 30, 2026
