Beaches in Bordeaux
Best Beaches Near Bordeaux for a Perfect Getaway
Here is the list of 7 Beaches in Bordeaux
1. Plage Pereire
Located in Arcachon itself, Plage Pereire is known for its scenic 3-km stretch of fine sand with cycle paths and shaded lawns behind the beach. Its shallow waters make it safe for children.
Location: Arcachon
Facilities: Bike paths, picnic spots, sports areas
Best For: Families and picnics
2. Dune du Pilat Beach
At the foot of Europe’s tallest sand dune, this beach offers dramatic scenery with sweeping ocean views. Visitors can climb the dune for sunset views before heading down to the Atlantic shore.
Location: La Teste-de-Buch, near Arcachon
Facilities: Restaurants and parking nearby
Best For: Adventure seekers, nature lovers
3. Le Porge Ocean
Less developed than Lacanau, Le Porge is a wilder stretch of sand backed by dunes and pine forests. It’s a quieter alternative for those seeking fewer crowds.
Location: About 1 hour from Bordeaux
Facilities: Limited—restaurants and lifeguard posts
Best For: Peace, nature, long beach walks
4. Lacanau Ocean
Lacanau is one of France’s most famous surf destinations, attracting both pros and beginners. The vast sandy beach has a lively summer atmosphere with beach bars and surf schools.
Location: Médoc coast, about 1 hour from Bordeaux
Facilities: Surf rentals, bars, restaurants, lifeguards
Best For: Surfing, nightlife, summer crowds
5. Carcans Beach
A long, open beach popular with both swimmers and surfers, Carcans combines vast sands with a laid-back vibe. The nearby Maubuisson Lake is also a safe swimming option.
Location: Near Lacanau, 1 hour from Bordeaux
Facilities: Lifeguards, surf schools, small cafés
Best For: Families and water sports
6. Cap Ferret Beaches
Cap Ferret offers both Atlantic-facing surf beaches and calm bay-side spots. Plage de l’Horizon is a favorite for surfers, while Plage de l’Herbe has oyster shacks and shallow waters.
Location: Cap Ferret Peninsula, about 1.5 hours from Bordeaux
Facilities: Surf schools, seafood shacks, bars
Best For: Surfing, seafood, relaxed coastal villages
7. Arcachon Beach
Arcachon is the most popular seaside escape from Bordeaux, offering wide sandy shores, calm waters, and a lively promenade. It’s ideal for families and travelers who prefer amenities close by.
Location: Arcachon Bay, about 1 hour from Bordeaux
Facilities: Restaurants, cafés, changing cabins, sunbeds
Best For: Families, swimming, leisurely strolls
While Bordeaux itself doesn’t have beaches, the Atlantic coast and Arcachon Bay offer plenty of seaside escapes within a short trip. Whether you’re climbing the Dune du Pilat, learning to surf at Lacanau, or enjoying oysters at Cap Ferret, the beaches around Bordeaux balance raw Atlantic energy with calm family-friendly shores.