The 10 Best Beaches in Arcachon, France

The Best Beaches in Arcachon

In this first section, I’ve gathered all the best beaches located in the town of Arcachon. Enjoy!
 

1. Plage d’Arcachon (Plage Centrale)

 
If you’re looking to soak up the lively vibe of Arcachon, Plage d’Arcachon is the go-to spot! Located in the heart of the Ville d’Eté, the city center, just a 10-minute stroll from the train station, this expansive beach is the most popular beach in Arcachon.

The Plage Centrale is lined with lovely restaurants, cafés, small boutiques, and even a casino. So you don’t have to go far for a break! There’s also a merry-go-round and a kid’s playground, perfect for families.

2. Plage Pereire

Pline / CC BY-SA

Located west of the town center opposite Cap-Ferret, Plage Pereire is the longest and best beach in Arcachon, stretching over 3 kilometers of sand. It offers a warm, pleasant landscape between the sea and the majestic pine forest to discover on a stroll. This beach is particularly cherished for its stunning sunset views.

Bordered by a long cycle path, you can also discover it by bike if the weather is not suitable for swimming or sunbathing. There’s also a skatepark with play areas for the youngest ones.

3. Plage des Arbousiers

Facing Cap Ferret and at the entrance to the Arcachon Basin, Plage des Arbousiers, also known as Plage des Abatilles, is one of the town’s most pleasant beaches.

This stretch of sandy paradise is a hit not only with families but also with water sports lovers. Whether you’re into paddleboarding, kitesurfing, hobie cat sailing, windsurfing, or even Hawaiian canoeing, there’s something for everyone here!

4. Plage du Moulleau

Andry G. R. / CC BY-ND

Situated in the southernmost part of Arcachon, Plage du Moulleau welcomes you at the gateway to the Bay of Arcachon in the charming Moulleau district. The sight from this beach is simply breathtaking, offering views of the Cap-Ferret lighthouse, the Dune du Pilat, and the Banc d’Arguin.

More intimate than the previous beaches, it’s an ideal haven for those looking for a little peace and quiet. Along the shoreline, you’ll discover a number of excellent restaurants to complete your beachside experience.

5. Plage de l’Aiguillon

It’s a bit of a hidden gem among Arcachon’s beaches. Plage de l’Aiguillon sits at the easternmost edge of the town, surrounded by the Arcachon harbor and the Pointe de l’Aiguillon. What makes it special is its cozy vibe, much appreciated by locals seeking a more intimate setting away from the flood of tourists.

Just a stone’s throw from the beach, the Cabane de l’Aiguillon invites you to try the freshest seafood with your feet in the water. This charming oyster shack is the perfect setting for sampling local produce.

The Best Beaches Near Arcachon

There are other amazing beaches that aren’t situated in the town of Arcachon, but that are quickly reachable from there either by car, by bus, or even by bike. It would be a shame not to mention them, so here are 5 of the best beaches near Arcachon!
 

6. Plage de La Hume

Just a 15-minute drive or train ride from Arcachon, La Hume Beach offers superb views over the bay, framed by pine and tamarisk trees.

This family-friendly beach is open to all, providing amenities for a delightful beach day. Picnic tables are available, as are children’s games, a refreshment bar, and the possibility of renting a paddle or kitesurfing equipment to explore the wonders of the Arcachon Basin.

7. Plage de la Corniche

 
Plage de la Corniche, also known as Plage de la Dune du Pilat, is without doubt the most unique of all! Situated at the base of the Dune du Pilat, facing the Banc d’Arguin, you can access it either via a staircase next to the Hôtel de la Co(o)rniche, or from the main entrance to the dune itself, by climbing the dune on the forest side and descending it on the seaside.

Its location promises a spectacular view well worth a visit. Despite the hustle at the top of the dune, the place is known for its tranquility and gentle waves, which are ideal for families with young children.

8. Plage du Petit Nice

A little south of the Dune du Pilat on the way to Biscarrosse lies Plage du Petit Nice, just about 20 minutes drive from Arcachon city center.

It’s a very large and pretty sandy beach, perfectly laid out with restaurants, snack bars, picnic tables, and play areas. The beach is easily accessible to people with reduced mobility, thanks to a gently sloping ramp and adapted chairs.

9. Plage de La Lagune

Right next to Plage du Petit Nice, not far from Pyla-sur-Mer, you’ll find the stunning Plage de La Lagune! Note that naturism is allowed on this beach, although most visitors opt to wear clothes.

Plage de La Lagune is one of the few in the area to have restaurants and bars right on the sand, which is really convenient. Volleyball courts and children’s playgrounds enhance the beach experience. Just a friendly reminder to stick to the designated swimming zones, as strong currents can be dangerous.

10. La Salie

 
This beach is one of the region’s most famous for surfing and other water sports. Located in the town of La Teste-de-Buch to the south of the Petit Nice and La Lagune beaches, it’s divided into 2 sections, Salie-Nord and Salie-Sud.

If you’re keen on learning to surf, look no further! You’ll find several clubs teaching surfing, kite surfing, and sand yachting. Just be aware that reaching the beach involves a bit of walking and crossing a dune, which might be a bit challenging for young children.

Map of the Beaches in Arcachon Bay

I’ve placed all the best beaches Arcachon has to offer on this map below. To get it and use it when you’ll be traveling the area, simply click on the image to open it in Google Maps. Then click on the “star” icon to save it to your own maps.

Where to Stay in Arcachon

Arcachon and its bay are full of great accommodations everywhere. If you want to spend a few days in the area, here are the best places to stay by budget or travel style:

✅ Best Hotel – Residhome Arcachon Plazza: close to the Plage Centrale and the train station, this beautiful hotel provides independent apartments with a fully-equipped kitchenette and great comfort for a good price.

💰 Best Budget Hotel – Hôtel L’Ostréi: This is a cozy hotel located not far from Plage d’Eyrac and Plage de l’Aiguillon. The staff is very welcoming, the rooms are lovely, and so are the rates!

✨ Best Luxury Hotel – Résidence Les Suites Pereire: Located only a few steps from Plage Pereire, this 5-star hotel offers wonderful rooms and small apartments, all well-equipped with an outdoor pool. Some units even have a jacuzzi!

You should know the area is also very popular for camping, especially near the Dune du Pilat. If this is your thing, make sure to read my camping guide to Dune du Pilat.
 

Plage Centrale in Arcachon city center

 
Hope this post helped you find the right beach Arcachon has to offer you! If you have any questions, let me know in the comments below.

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