Plage de la Digue is a picturesque beach situated in Tarnos, notable for its dike, a 1 km long concrete structure that safeguards the Adour estuary. This dike also offers a breathtaking view of the Landes coast to the north and the Basque Country to the south. The beach is well-known for its clear and calm waters, making it an attractive spot for surfing enthusiasts.
The beach's natural landscape is marked by an abundance of wild plants, shells, and pebbles that contribute to its rustic charm. Driftwood huts, constructed by a local association, dot the sandy beach, further enhancing its appeal. The beach extends to the beach of the Metro and then to Ondres, making it quite expansive.
Despite being situated near a military training field and a motocross terrain nestled between old WWII bunkers, the beach is not typically crowded, even during the summer. This is partly because a significant portion of the beach is not supervised.
The beach is only under lifeguard supervision during the months of July and August. Facilities to accommodate people with reduced mobility are also available during these months. The beach is accessible to the public from July 1 to August 27.
Plage de la Digue is also part of the Velodyssée, a famous cycling route, and is surrounded by small lakes and a pine forest/cork oak, making it an excellent spot for landscape photography. It's especially beautiful during a storm at sunset when one can often spot two or three cargo ships on the horizon.
However, like many other beaches worldwide, Plage de la Digue is grappling with the challenge of increasing plastic waste. Efforts to maintain the beach's cleanliness and natural beauty are ongoing.
