Canet-en-Roussillon is the closest waterfront location to Perpignan, lying just 10 km to the east. There’s nice running in Canet-en-Roussillon on a pleasant waterfront promenade (Prom. de la Côte Vermeille) path that runs for 3.3 km along the Plage du Grand Large (plage=beach). It’s a festive scene, with nice views of the wide, sandy beach and the water. Note: The beach has very soft, grainy sand and is not great for running.  Bonus: Lit at night. 

Promenade path. Fabricio Cardenas

The north end of the path is at Oniria – Aquarium Canet-en-Roussillon. We actually start with ~1 km out & back to the Lighthouse, on path along the scenic jetty. Then, run south for 3.3 along the wide, palm-lined beachfront promenade (Prom. de Côte Vermeille/Côte Radieuse/Charles Trenet). The south end is at Plage Mar Estang. The full route, including the jetty, is nearly 8 km out & back. 

Alternative: There’s a dirt path that runs along the Têt River for 1.5 km. The east end is at the camping area, just north of Plage de Sardinal. Note it’s not an easy pedestrian connection from the Promenade path.