Omaha Beach & Pointe du Hoc D-Day Tour from Bayeux

Summary

Walk Normandy’s D-Day beaches and hear the echoes of history

You’ll feel Normandy’s wind on your face at Pointe du Hoc and stand quietly among white crosses at the American Cemetery. Walk Omaha Beach with a local guide who shares real stories from June 6th, 1944 — not just facts but moments that linger after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the wind — sharp, salty, and louder than I’d expected as we stepped out near Pointe du Hoc. Our guide, Pierre, started right away, pointing to the jagged bunkers half-swallowed by grass. He told us about the American Rangers climbing up these cliffs under fire. I tried to imagine it, but honestly, it’s hard to fit that kind of fear into a quiet afternoon. There’s still a faint smell of seaweed and old concrete here. Pierre let us wander for a bit; I found myself touching one of the cratered stones without really thinking about it.

We drove on to the Normandy American Cemetery. The grass looked impossibly green against all those white crosses — so many rows you lose count if you try. Pierre shared stories about some of the people buried there (he even knew where a few were from). There was a moment when everyone just sort of fell silent, except for one woman quietly reading names aloud. It felt respectful but also heavy in a way I wasn’t ready for. You get about half an hour to walk around on your own — I just stood by one grave longer than I meant to.

Omaha Beach itself was wider than I pictured from photos. The sand was cold and damp under my shoes, and there were kids running along the edge while their parents watched from further up. Pierre explained exactly where the landings happened on June 6th, 1944 — he even pointed out how far the tide would have been that morning (way out past where we could walk). It hit me then: this isn’t just history you read in school; it’s right here under your feet. We had maybe fifteen minutes on the beach before heading back to Bayeux in our minivan — which honestly felt too short, but maybe that’s how it should be.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Omaha Beach and WWII sites

• Overview of Omaha Beach landings
• Free time walking on Omaha Beach
• Explore Pointe du Hoc bunkers
• Free time at Pointe du Hoc
• Tour Normandy American Cemetery
• Free time at American Cemetery

Top questions

How long is the D-Day tour from Bayeux?

The afternoon group tour lasts several hours, with visits to Pointe du Hoc, Normandy American Cemetery, and Omaha Beach.

Is transportation included from Bayeux?

Yes, round-trip travel by air-conditioned minivan from central Bayeux is included.

Are children allowed on this tour?

Children over 4 years old are allowed; each child needs their own seat as required by law.

Do we get free time at each site?

Yes, you’ll have around 25 minutes at Pointe du Hoc, 30 minutes at the cemetery, and about 15 minutes at Omaha Beach (depending on tides).

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?

The tour operates in all weather conditions; dress appropriately for rain or wind.

Are large bags allowed on board?

No, only small carry-on cases or overnight bags are accepted due to space limitations.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes pickup in central Bayeux by minivan with a professional guide leading you through Pointe du Hoc’s bunkers and craters before giving you time to explore solo; entry into the Normandy American Cemetery with stories shared along quiet paths; plus time walking Omaha Beach itself before returning together to Bayeux.