Plougasnou is a coastal commune located in the Finistère department of Brittany, northwestern France, specifically situated at the eastern end of the Bay of Morlaix and offering views across to the Bay of Lannion.

The name Plougasnou originates from the Breton "Ploe" (parish) combined with an ancient personal name "Cadnou" or "Casnou," signifying its historical roots as an early medieval ecclesiastical territory.

The Église Saint-Pierre, a significant architectural landmark, showcases a blend of 16th-century Breton Gothic and Renaissance styles, notably featuring an ornate ossuary and a distinctively shaped bell tower.

Historically, Plougasnou's economy was intrinsically linked to the sea, with fishing for sardines, mackerel, and various shellfish constituting its primary industry and shaping its maritime heritage for centuries.

Its extensive coastline, stretching approximately 17 kilometers, is characterized by diverse landscapes including sandy beaches, secluded coves, and dramatic granite cliffs, making it a popular destination for seaside tourism.

Demographically, Plougasnou experienced a population decline through the mid-20th century, from over 3,000 inhabitants in 1900 to around 2,500 by the 1970s, before a gradual recovery driven by new residents and tourism, stabilizing at over 3,000 in the early 21st century.

The contemporary economy of Plougasnou relies heavily on tourism, drawing visitors to its natural beauty, alongside a resilient agricultural sector focused on market gardening and livestock, and various local services.

Local cultural life is enriched by traditional Breton "Pardons," which are religious processions and festivals often featuring traditional costumes, Breton music, and communal meals, preserving ancient customs.

While French is the official language, the Breton language maintains a presence in Plougasnou, supported by local associations and educational initiatives aiming to preserve and transmit this essential part of its cultural identity.

The dramatic Pointe de Primel, a rocky headland offering extensive panoramic views of the English Channel and the adjacent bays, serves as a significant natural landmark within the commune, popular for coastal walks.

Visible from Plougasnou's coast and accessible by boat, the impressive Château du Taureau, a 16th-century fortified island fortress, stands as a testament to the region's historical maritime defenses against English incursions.

During World War II, Plougasnou was part of the German Atlantic Wall defenses, resulting in the construction of numerous bunkers and fortifications along its coast, which remain visible historical remnants today.

The local gastronomy reflects its coastal location, featuring abundant fresh seafood, such as oysters, lobsters, and a variety of fish, complemented by traditional Breton crêpes, galettes, and local cider.

The commune’s historical evolution also includes a period of significant emigration during the 19th and early 20th centuries, as many residents sought opportunities in larger cities or abroad, influencing its demographic structure.

Plougasnou's role in national history is primarily reflected through its participation in broader Breton and French maritime commerce, its strategic coastal defense during conflicts, and its resilience as a fishing and agricultural community.