Jonzac Beaches

Overview

Jonzac offers a unique and surprising take on a beach holiday. As an inland spa town, it swaps a traditional coastline for its own popular freshwater beach, a sandy lagoon located at the Base de Loisirs d'Heurtebise. This local spot provides a relaxed setting for swimming and sunbathing, complemented by Les Antilles de Jonzac, a massive indoor tropical water park that ensures aquatic fun in any season.

For those who crave the classic seaside experience, the magnificent Atlantic coast is just an hour's drive away, making for an easy and popular day trip. The nearby resort town of Royan is home to some of the region's most beloved shorelines. Here you can discover the expansive main beach, Plage de la Grande-Conche, or the chic, vibrant atmosphere of Plage de Pontaillac. For a different feel, the beautiful cliffs at Plage des Nonnes offer a stunning backdrop, while Plage de la Grande Cote provides a wilder, more natural escape.

This blend of local water attractions and easy coastal access makes Jonzac a wonderfully versatile destination. Visitors can enjoy the laid-back charm of the town's leisure park one day and explore the famous beaches of the Côte de Beauté the next. Whether you prefer a calm, freshwater setting or the vastness of the ocean, you can find your perfect spot. For more ideas, be sure to explore our full guide to the beaches in and around the area.

FAQ

People Also Ask

Are there real beaches in Jonzac?

Jonzac is an inland spa town, not a coastal city, so it does not have natural sea beaches. However, it features a popular man-made freshwater beach with fine sand at its leisure park, the 'Base de Loisirs d'Heurtebise'. This area offers a safe and controlled environment for swimming and sunbathing.

Can you swim in the lake at the Jonzac leisure park (Base de Loisirs)?

Yes, you can swim in the designated lagoon area at the Base de Loisirs. The swimming area features a sandy beach and is supervised by lifeguards during the peak summer season, typically from early July to the end of August, making it a safe option for families.

Is the beach at Jonzac's leisure park free to access?

Yes, access to the leisure park and the sandy beach for swimming is free of charge. While entry to the beach and swimming area is free, some specific activities at the park, such as the treetop adventure course, pedal boats, and canoeing, require a fee.

What is 'Les Antilles de Jonzac' and is it a beach?

Les Antilles de Jonzac is one of Europe's largest indoor water parks, not a traditional beach. It's a major attraction with a tropical theme, featuring a lagoon with a wave pool, water slides, a lazy river, relaxation areas with saunas and jacuzzis, and even an indoor beach with sun loungers, all under a massive transparent canopy.

Are there hotels with direct access to the beach or water park in Jonzac?

Several accommodation options are located very close to the leisure park and Les Antilles de Jonzac. The 'Résidence Vacances Bleues Les Coteaux de Jonzac' is situated right in the Parc du Val de Seugne, offering easy walking access to both attractions. Other hotels and holiday rentals are just a short drive or a pleasant walk away.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Is Jonzac a good destination for a family beach holiday?

Jonzac is an excellent destination for a family holiday centered around water activities, though not a traditional seaside one. It offers two distinct, family-friendly experiences: the outdoor leisure park with its free, supervised swimming beach, and the indoor tropical water park 'Les Antilles de Jonzac'. This combination makes it a versatile choice for families with children of all ages.

When is the best time to visit Jonzac for swimming?

The best time for outdoor swimming at the Base de Loisirs is from mid-June to mid-September when the beach is open. Lifeguard supervision is typically provided in July and August. The indoor water park, Les Antilles de Jonzac, is open year-round, making it a great option for any season.

How far is Jonzac from the actual Atlantic coast beaches?

Jonzac is located inland, about an hour's drive (approximately 70-80 km) from the nearest Atlantic coastal resorts like Royan and the beaches of the Côte Sauvage. This makes it possible to take a day trip to the ocean while being based in the quieter, vineyard-rich countryside of Haute-Saintonge.

What else is there to do at the Jonzac leisure park besides swimming?

Beyond the swimming beach, the Base de Loisirs offers a wide range of activities. These include a treetop adventure course with zip lines, canoeing on the Seugne river, pedal boats, a skate park, a children's playground, and areas for picnics. There is also a restaurant and bar on-site.

Are there other places to swim near Jonzac besides the leisure park?

While the main designated swimming spots are the leisure park and Les Antilles, some people also enjoy more natural swimming in the Seugne river, which flows through Jonzac. There are also other leisure lakes ('bases de loisirs') in the wider Haute-Saintonge area, such as the one in Montendre.

Is the water at the Jonzac leisure beach suitable for toddlers?

Yes, the beach at the Base de Loisirs is very suitable for toddlers and small children. It has a gentle, sandy slope into the water, and the swimming area is calm and supervised during the summer. The wider park also has playgrounds and open spaces for young children to play.

Can you have a picnic at the beach in Jonzac?

Yes, picnicking is a popular activity at the Base de Loisirs. There are designated picnic areas with tables available for public use, allowing families to enjoy a full day out at the park without needing to leave for meals.