Omaha Beach

Guided tours of the five D-Day beaches—Utah Beach, Omaha Beach, Gold Beach, Juno Beach, and Sword Beach—run from Bayeux, Caen, Le Havre, Carentan, and Paris, and often include visits to other Normandy battlefields such as Pointe du Hoc, Arromanches, and Pegasus Bridge. For a more personalized experience, opt for a private or small-group tour and choose to focus on the American, Canadian, or British sites and memorials.

• Most tours visit WWII cemeteries and memorials, so it’s important to dress and act respectfully.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the battle ruins and beaches.

• Some tours are wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to check in advance with your tour operator.

Omaha Beach is located along the coast of Normandy in northern France, 15 miles (24 kilometers) northwest of Bayeux. Although buses run to the beach from Bayeux, the easiest way to visit is by private transportation or as part of a guided tour. The American Cemetery lies above the beach, from where a long walkway heads down to the beach itself.

Tours run to Omaha Beach year-round, but it can get busy during peak summer season. If you’re visiting in July and August, try to arrive early morning or early evening to avoid the large groups of day-trippers. The most moving time to visit is during the annual D-Day Festival, which commemorates the anniversary of the Allied Landings with a program of memorials, parades, and beachside picnics.

Omaha Beach was the location of one of the most significant battles World War II. On June 6, 1944, American troops were given the task of securing Omaha Beach as part of a strategy to land Allied troops along five points on the coast of Normandy—an operation code-named D-Day. Due to unforeseen tidal forces and stronger than expected German defenses, the American soldiers suffered massive losses—2,400 casualties in a day of bloody fighting. However, the landing was eventually successful with 34,000 troops securing the area for the Allies, and thus beginning the end of the war.

Yes, you can visit Omaha Beach without a tour. Omaha Beach is a public place in Normandy, France, and you can access it freely. Many visitors explore the beach and the nearby American Cemetery independently. Tours are available for those who prefer guided experiences, but they are not mandatory.

Yes, some did survive the first wave on Omaha Beach during the D-Day landings. Despite heavy casualties (approximately 2,400) and tough resistance, some soldiers managed to push through and secure the beachhead, marking a pivotal moment in history in the D-Day landings of World War II.

The time you'll spend at Omaha Beach beaches depends on your interests. One or two hours might suffice for a quick visit to pay your respects. A half-day or full-day tour gives a deep dive into WWII history and often visits nearby sights, including the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial.

Yes, most Omaha Beach tours offer the option to visit other D-Day sites, allowing you to explore the broader context of the Normandy landings. Itineraries often include sights like Utah Beach, Pointe du Hoc, and the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial in your tour itinerary, providing a comprehensive D-Day experience.

Yes, you can swim at Omaha Beach. The beach offers a beautiful coastline, and swimming is a popular activity in summer. However, be aware of tides and currents, as conditions can change. Always follow safety guidelines and be cautious when swimming in the open waters of the English Channel.

The best time to visit Omaha Beach is in late spring and summer, from May to September. The weather is pleasant, and you can explore the historic sites comfortably. Avoid the winter when the weather can be cold and less conducive for outdoor activities.