Jard-sur-Mer Beaches

Overview

Jard-sur-Mer is a charming seaside resort on the Vendée coast, celebrated for its welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. The coastline offers a delightful variety, answering the common question of whether its beaches are sandy or rocky with a simple "both." Visitors will discover picturesque sandy beaches perfect for a classic holiday, interspersed with wild, rocky coves. This blend of landscapes provides a scenic backdrop for everything from swimming to leisurely coastal walks.

Among the editor's top selections, Plage de Boisvinet stands out as the convenient main beach, located right in the heart of town. For a more dramatic setting, Plage de la Mine is famed for its beautiful ochre cliffs. Just a short trip away, the stunning sand spit at Plage du Veillon offers one of the most scenic views in the region. For an authentic local experience, the rockier shoreline of Plage de Ragounite is the town's favorite spot for exploring tide pools at low tide.

Beyond these highlights, the coast around Jard-sur-Mer is dotted with other coves and stretches of sand waiting to be explored. The significant tides continually transform the shoreline, revealing vast areas perfect for rock pooling and beachcombing. To see all the spots this beautiful area has to offer, from the most popular beaches to its more hidden gems, be sure to browse our complete guide.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Jard-sur-Mer a good destination for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Jard-sur-Mer is considered an excellent family-oriented seaside resort. It offers a peaceful atmosphere and several sandy beaches suitable for families, such as Plage de Boisvinet, which is supervised in summer. The town features a pleasant marina, a pedestrianized center with shops, and evening entertainment in the summer, making it a well-rounded destination for visitors of all ages.

Plage de Boisvinet

Can you swim in the sea at Jard-sur-Mer and what is the water like?

Swimming is popular at Jard-sur-Mer, especially from June to September. The most comfortable water temperatures, reaching around 20-22°C, are typically found in July and August. While the Atlantic water is generally cool, these summer months offer pleasant conditions for swimming. Some beaches, like Plage de la Mine, are known for good swimming even at low tide, whereas others can be rocky.

Plage de la Mine

What is the best time of year to visit Jard-sur-Mer for a beach holiday?

The best time for a beach holiday in Jard-sur-Mer is during the summer months, from June to August. This period offers the warmest weather and most pleasant water temperatures for swimming and other beach activities. July and August are the peak months with the most sunshine and warmest sea, though September can also be pleasant with fewer crowds.

Which is better for beaches, Jard-sur-Mer or La Tranche-sur-Mer?

The choice between Jard-sur-Mer and La Tranche-sur-Mer depends on your preference. Jard-sur-Mer is known for its mix of sandy beaches and rocky coves, offering a varied and scenic coastline backed by forests and cliffs. La Tranche-sur-Mer is famous for its long, south-facing sandy beaches, making it a hotspot for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Jard-sur-Mer is often seen as a quieter, more traditional village, while La Tranche can have a more bustling, sports-oriented atmosphere.

Are there campsites within walking distance of a beach in Jard-sur-Mer?

Yes, Jard-sur-Mer is very popular with campers, and there are several campsites located close to the beaches. Many are situated near Plage de la Mine and Plage de Boisvinet, often allowing you to walk to the beach and the town center. This makes it a convenient option for a beach-focused holiday without needing a car for everything.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Plage de la Mine

Plage de Boisvinet

Are the beaches in Jard-sur-Mer sandy or rocky?

Jard-sur-Mer offers a mix of both. You will find several pleasant sandy beaches, most notably Plage de la Mine and Plage de Boisvinet. However, the coastline is also characterized by rocky sections and cliffs, which create picturesque coves and are great for rock pooling (pêche à pied) at low tide. Some beaches, like Plage de Ragounite, are more pebbly.

Plage de la Mine

Plage de Boisvinet

Plage de Ragounite

How do the tides affect the beaches and swimming in Jard-sur-Mer?

The tides have a significant impact on the beaches in Jard-sur-Mer. At low tide, large expanses of sand and rocks are uncovered, which is ideal for beachcombing and rock pooling ('pêche à pied'). However, on some rocky beaches, swimming may become difficult or impossible at low tide. Sandy beaches like Plage de la Mine are known to be suitable for swimming even when the tide is out. It's always best to check the local tide times before heading to the beach.

Plage de la Mine

Which is the main beach in Jard-sur-Mer and is it supervised?

Plage de Boisvinet is considered the main beach in the center of Jard-sur-Mer, located right next to the port. It is the only beach in the immediate town center that is supervised by lifeguards during the summer season. It is also equipped with facilities for people with reduced mobility.

Plage de Boisvinet

People Also Ask

Are there any quieter, more hidden beaches near Jard-sur-Mer?

Yes, for those willing to walk, there are smaller, more secluded coves along the coastal path, particularly west of the town towards the Pointe du Payré. These coves offer a more tranquil experience away from the main beaches. Plage de Morpoigne, while close to the port, is also known for being quieter than the larger beaches.

Plage de Morpoigne

What's the best beach for surfing in Jard-sur-Mer?

Plage de la Mine is the go-to spot for surfing in Jard-sur-Mer. There is a designated surf spot on the east side of the beach, and a surf school is typically present during the summer. The waves here can be quite strong, making it popular with surfers, though this can make it less ideal for swimming with very young children.

Plage de la Mine

Is it easy to park near the beaches in Jard-sur-Mer?

Most of the main beaches have dedicated free parking areas. For example, Plage de la Mine has a large free car park near the forest, a short walk from the beach. Plage de Boisvinet has parking along the adjacent streets. However, during the peak summer months of July and August, these car parks can fill up quickly, so it's advisable to arrive early.

Plage de la Mine

Plage de Boisvinet

Are dogs allowed on the beaches in Jard-sur-Mer?

Dog access on the beaches in Jard-sur-Mer is generally restricted during the peak season. From mid-June to mid-September, dogs are typically forbidden on most supervised beaches. However, Plage de Ragounite is known to be an exception where dogs are allowed, provided they are kept on a leash.

Plage de Ragounite