Cap-Ferret Beaches

Overview

Cap-Ferret offers a uniquely charming coastal experience on its beautiful peninsula, defined by two distinct styles of beach. On one side, the Atlantic Ocean delivers a wild, exhilarating coastline with vast, sandy beaches and powerful surf. The other side faces the tranquil Bassin d'Arcachon, a calm bay with gentle waters and picturesque oyster villages. This dual nature gives the destination a relaxed, 'wild-chic' atmosphere that feels worlds away from a bustling seaside resort.

The peninsula's beaches cater to every mood, from adventurous to serene. For an authentic Atlantic experience, Plage du Truc Vert is the premier destination for surfers. On the bay, Plage de l'Herbe offers calm waters and the unique charm of an active oyster farming village. For the most stunning photo opportunities, Beach Pointe aux Chevaux provides breathtaking views across the bay. A can't-miss day trip is the boat ride to Plage de la Corniche, located at the foot of the immense Dune du Pilat. And for pure convenience, Plage du Centre (Bélisaire) sits right beside the main jetty in Cap-Ferret village, making it easily accessible.

The bay's calm waters are perfect for swimming, particularly at high tide when the beaches are at their best. Beyond these editor's picks, Cap-Ferret is home to over 25 kilometers of coastline, featuring everything from lively family beaches to quiet, hidden coves. Whether you seek the thrill of the ocean waves or the peaceful rhythm of the bay, our complete guide will help you discover the many sandy shores waiting to be explored.

Top Beaches

Plage de l'Horizon

The peninsula's most famous ocean beach, uniquely accessible by a charming little train from the town center. Considered the main oceanfront for the village of Cap-Ferret, this is where the wildness of the Atlantic coast truly begins. After crossing the dunes on a wooden walkway, you are greeted by a huge expanse of fine sand that feels both vast and beautifully natural. The air is filled with the sound of powerful waves, offering a classic and rugged ocean experience. It is a stunning landscape where the untamed Atlantic meets the iconic dunes of the peninsula. This beach provides a quintessential taste of the Côte d'Argent's beautiful, windswept scenery.

FAQ

What's the difference between the ocean beaches and the bay beaches in Cap-Ferret?

Cap-Ferret's peninsula offers two distinct beach experiences. The Atlantic Ocean side features vast, wild beaches with powerful waves, making them ideal for surfing and experienced swimmers. These beaches, like Le Truc Vert and Plage de l'Horizon, are backed by large dunes and pine forests. On the other side is the Bassin d'Arcachon (Arcachon Bay), where the beaches have calm, gentle, and often shallow waters. These bay-side beaches, such as Plage de l'Herbe and Plage du Mimbeau, are perfect for families with young children, paddleboarding, and swimming at high tide.

Plage du Truc Vert

Plage de l'Herbe

Is Cap-Ferret or Arcachon better for a beach holiday?

Choosing between Cap-Ferret and Arcachon depends on your preferred holiday style. Cap-Ferret offers a more natural, 'wild-chic' and bohemian atmosphere with its distinct ocean and bay beaches nestled among pine forests. It's known for a more laid-back, discreetly upscale vibe. Arcachon is a more traditional and bustling seaside resort town with a lively promenade, city amenities directly behind the beach, and calmer waters suitable for families. You can easily visit one from the other via a 30-minute ferry ride to experience both.

Can you actually swim in the Bassin d'Arcachon, or is it just for oysters and boats?

Yes, you can definitely swim in the Bassin d'Arcachon. The bay-side beaches offer calm and often warmer water than the Atlantic, making them excellent for swimming, especially for families. The key is to pay attention to the tides. It's best to swim at high tide, as low tide can expose large, muddy sandbanks, making it difficult to reach the water.

Which beaches in Cap-Ferret are best for families with young children?

The beaches on the Bassin d'Arcachon side are generally the best for families with young children due to their calm, shallow waters. Popular choices include Plage de l'Herbe, Plage du Canon, and the beaches near the village of Claouey. These spots allow for safe splashing and swimming. On the ocean side, Plage de l'Horizon is a good option as it has a supervised swimming area during the summer and is accessible via a small tourist train, which is an adventure for kids.

Plage de l'Herbe

Can you stay in an accommodation with direct beach access in Cap-Ferret?

Yes, it is possible, particularly on the Bassin d'Arcachon side. Many of the traditional oyster-farming villages, like L'Herbe and Le Canon, have 'cabanes' (cabins) and houses that open directly onto the sand. There are also holiday rentals and some hotels situated with direct or 'first-row' access to the bay beaches. On the ocean side, accommodations are typically set back behind the dunes and forest, requiring a short walk to the beach.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Do I need a car to get to the beaches in Cap-Ferret?

While a car can be useful for reaching the peninsula, it's not essential for getting to the beaches once you are there. Cycling is the preferred mode of transport for locals and visitors alike, with over 50km of dedicated cycle paths running through the pine forests and connecting the villages and beaches. Renting a bike is easy and allows you to avoid summer traffic and parking issues. For some beaches, like Plage de l'Horizon, you can even take a small tourist train from the Bélisaire jetty.

What are 'baïnes' and are they dangerous?

‘Baïnes’ are tidal pools or currents that form on the Atlantic coast beaches. At low tide, they can look like calm, shallow pools of water, which might seem inviting. However, as the tide rises, they create strong offshore currents that can be very dangerous for swimmers. It's crucial to only swim in the supervised areas marked by flags on the ocean beaches, as lifeguards are trained to identify and monitor these conditions. Never swim in an unsupervised baïne.

When is the best time to visit Cap-Ferret for a beach holiday?

For warm swimming weather and a lively atmosphere, July and August are the most popular months, but also the most crowded. For a great balance of pleasant weather, warm water, and fewer crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of June and September. May and October are ideal for surfing, with consistent swells and offshore winds. The vibe is much quieter outside of the peak summer months.

People Also Ask

Are there any hidden or less crowded beaches in Cap-Ferret?

Yes, while the main beaches can get busy, there are quieter spots. Plage de la Truquette, tucked away behind the forest, is considered a hidden gem. On the ocean side, the Plage du Truc Vert is so vast that if you walk a few hundred meters from the main entrance, you can often find a peaceful spot for yourself. The key is often to explore the smaller access paths away from the main parking areas or visit during the shoulder seasons.

Beach of Truquette

Plage du Truc Vert

What is the vibe like in the oyster villages by the beaches?

The oyster villages, such as L'Herbe, Le Canon, and Piraillan, have a unique and authentic atmosphere. They are characterized by colorful, rustic wooden cabins ('cabanes') that serve as both homes and workplaces for oyster farmers. The vibe is very relaxed and centered around the rhythm of the tides and oyster cultivation. Visitors can stroll through the narrow sandy lanes, watch the farmers at work, and enjoy fresh oysters and white wine at the numerous waterside tasting shacks.

Is Cap-Ferret a party destination?

No, Cap-Ferret is not known as a major party destination with large nightclubs. The atmosphere is more 'chic and relaxed' than wild. The evening social life revolves around long dinners at restaurants, sunset drinks at beach bars, or private gatherings at holiday homes. While some spots like Sail Fish can have a lively, festive atmosphere with music, the overall vibe is more about understated enjoyment than all-night partying.

Are the ocean beaches good for beginner surfers?

Yes, some of the ocean beaches are suitable for beginners, especially during the summer months of July and August when the waves are typically smaller and more mellow. Plage de l'Horizon and Le Truc Vert are popular spots with several surf schools offering lessons and equipment rentals for all levels. However, conditions can be challenging, so it's always recommended for beginners to take a lesson and stay within supervised swimming and surfing zones.

Plage du Truc Vert