La Baule Beaches

Overview

Welcome to La Baule, a chic and sophisticated seaside resort on France's Atlantic coast, renowned for what is often called one of Europe's most beautiful bays. The town is defined by its magnificent main beach, Plage de La Baule, a vast 9-kilometer arc of fine, golden sand that has established the area as a premier destination. With its elegant atmosphere and calm waters, La Baule is an ideal setting for families and visitors seeking a stylish coastal escape rather than a lively party scene.

Beyond the main bay, the coastline offers a delightful variety of atmospheres. For a classic and sheltered experience, Plage Benoît is the most exclusive section of the bay, perfect for relaxed swimming. Film enthusiasts can visit the charming Saint Marc sur Mer Plage de Monsieur Hulot, the iconic setting for a classic French film. For those seeking more adventure, Plage de la Govelle on the Côte Sauvage is a favorite among local surfers for its untamed waves and authentic feel.

The stunning bay is shared with the neighboring town of Pornichet, which offers a similarly beautiful but more relaxed, family-resort ambiance. Its popular Plage des Libraires is a perfect example of this welcoming atmosphere and is the town's most central and well-equipped beach. From the wilder, scenic coves like Plage de Port-Lin in Le Croisic to other local favorites, there are many more shores to discover in our complete guide to the region's beaches.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is La Baule a good destination for a family beach holiday?

Yes, La Baule is considered an excellent destination for families. Its main beach is a 9-kilometer stretch of fine sand with calm waters, making it safe for children. Many beach clubs, like Les Léopards and La Mouette, offer supervised activities for kids aged 3 to 13, giving parents time to relax. Additionally, the town offers numerous family-friendly activities beyond the beach, including pony rides, amusement parks like Parc des Dryades, and the AquaBaule aquatic center.

Plage de La Baule

What is the best time of year to visit La Baule for swimming?

The best time for a swimming holiday in La Baule is from late June to August. During these months, the weather is warmest, and the sea temperature typically reaches a more comfortable 19-20°C (66-68°F). While May and September can also have pleasant weather for sunbathing, the Atlantic water will be significantly cooler.

Can you swim in the sea at La Baule even at low tide?

Yes, you can generally swim at low tide, particularly in the central and eastern parts of the bay where the beach is steeper. However, at low tide, the water recedes significantly, creating a vast expanse of sand. While you can still reach the water for a swim, be prepared for a longer walk across the wet sand.

Are there beach clubs or private beaches in La Baule?

Yes, La Baule has a number of beach clubs and restaurants located directly on the sand. These establishments offer amenities like sun lounger and parasol rentals, seaside dining, and drinks service. Some popular options include Les Fils à Maman and Ipanema. It's a good idea to book in advance, especially during the peak summer months of July and August.

Are there hotels with direct beach access in La Baule?

Yes, La Baule is famous for its grand hotels situated directly on the seafront promenade, offering immediate access to the beach. Prestigious hotels like Hôtel Barrière L'Hermitage and Hôtel Barrière Le Royal are prime examples. Many other hotels and apartments are located just a street or two away, providing very easy and quick access to the sand.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Plage de La Baule

How does La Baule's beach compare to Pornichet's?

La Baule and Pornichet share the same magnificent bay, which stretches for 9 kilometers. La Baule's beach is famous for its vast, continuous stretch of fine sand and its chic, bustling promenade. Pornichet, located at the southern end of the bay, also has beautiful sandy beaches like the Plage des Libraires, but is often described as having a slightly more relaxed, family-resort atmosphere compared to the more glamorous feel of La Baule.

Plage de La Baule

Plage des Libraires

Is it easy to get to the beach from the main town and hotels?

Yes, it is very easy. The main beach runs parallel to the town, and many hotels, restaurants, and shops are located directly on the seafront promenade or just a short walk away. The town is relatively flat, making it easy to walk to the beach. For those staying further back, renting a bicycle is a very popular and convenient way to get around.

What is the vibe of La Baule? Is it a party destination?

La Baule is known for its chic, elegant, and sophisticated atmosphere rather than being a wild party destination. It attracts a mix of affluent families, couples, and older visitors. While you'll find stylish beachfront restaurants, cocktail bars, and a casino, the nightlife is generally more relaxed and upscale compared to dedicated party resorts.

People Also Ask

Are dogs allowed on the beaches in La Baule?

During the main tourist season, from June 1st to September 30th, dogs are generally prohibited on all the main beaches in La Baule. This is to ensure the cleanliness and quality of the bathing water. Outside of this period, rules are more relaxed, but it's always best to check local signage. There are, however, many other beautiful places to walk your dog, such as the Escoublac Forest.

What kind of water sports can you do in La Baule?

The bay's calm waters are ideal for a wide variety of water sports. Numerous clubs along the beach offer lessons and rentals for activities such as sailing (on dinghies and catamarans), paddleboarding, kayaking, and windsurfing. The gentle waves also make it a suitable spot for beginners to try surfing.

Is the beach in La Baule clean and well-maintained?

Yes, the beach in La Baule is known for being exceptionally clean and well-maintained. During the high season, the sand is cleaned regularly, public access points are swept daily, and facilities like toilets are maintained multiple times a day. The town takes great pride in the upkeep of its main attraction.

Are there quieter, less crowded beaches near La Baule?

While the main La Baule beach is the star attraction, you can find smaller, more discreet coves beyond the ports of Le Pouliguen (to the west) and Pornichet (to the east). Exploring the coastal paths in these directions can lead you to less crowded spots. Additionally, beaches like Bonne Source in Pornichet are known for being a bit more peaceful than the central stretch of La Baule.

Plage de Bonne-Source