Île de Ré, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France

La Flotte Beaches

Overview

La Flotte, nestled on the charming Île de Ré, offers a delightful coastal escape. It's a fantastic destination for families, with its primary beach, Plage de l'Arenault, providing calm, sandy shores perfect for relaxed days by the sea. The island's beaches are known for their fine sand, though the rhythm of the tides often reveals expansive areas for exploration, adding a unique dimension to your visit.

Beyond La Flotte's own shores, Île de Ré boasts a variety of stunning beaches easily within reach. Discover the popular, expansive sands of Beach Gollandières, or catch some waves at the surfer's haven, Plage des Grenettes. For a truly unique setting, explore Plage de Trousse-Chemise with its enchanting forest backdrop, or visit the iconic Plage de la Conche des Baleines, famous for its wild beauty and historic lighthouse.

Whether you're looking to swim, sunbathe, try watersports, or simply explore the diverse coastline, the beaches around La Flotte cater to many preferences. Exploring these beautiful spots by bike is a popular and enjoyable way to experience the island's coastal charm. For even more options, be sure to check out our longer list of beaches in this guide.

FAQ

Is La Flotte a good place for a family beach holiday?

Yes, La Flotte is considered very family-friendly. Its main beach, Plage de l'Arnérault, offers calm waters suitable for children, lifeguard supervision during peak season, and often a kids' club. The village atmosphere is also welcoming for families.

What is the main beach in La Flotte like?

The main beach in La Flotte is Plage de l'Arnérault. It's a sandy beach located south of the harbour, known for its calm waters, making it ideal for families. It's also equipped with amenities and is supervised in summer.
Plage de l'Arenault
Plage de l'Arenault

Can you swim at the beaches in La Flotte and what is the water temperature like?

Yes, you can swim at Plage de l'Arnérault in La Flotte, especially at high tide. The Atlantic water temperature is generally cool, ranging from around 15°C (59°F) in early summer to potentially 20-22°C (68-72°F) in July and August.
Plage de l'Arenault
Plage de l'Arenault

Are the beaches in La Flotte sandy?

Plage de l'Arnérault, the main beach in La Flotte, is primarily a sandy beach. At low tide, larger rocky areas and oyster beds may be exposed, which are characteristic of the Île de Ré coastline.
Plage de l'Arenault
Plage de l'Arenault

How important are the tides for visiting beaches in La Flotte?

Tides are very important at La Flotte. High tide is best for swimming, while low tide reveals a vast area ideal for walking, exploring rock pools, and "pêche à pied" (shore fishing/shellfish gathering). Always check tide times before your visit.

Are there lifeguards on duty at La Flotte beaches?

Plage de l'Arnérault in La Flotte typically has lifeguard supervision during the main summer season (usually July and August). It's always best to check specific dates and times locally upon arrival.
Plage de l'Arenault
Plage de l'Arenault

What's the best time of year to visit La Flotte for a beach trip?

The best time for a beach trip to La Flotte is generally from June to September when the weather is warmest and conditions are most suitable for swimming and sunbathing. July and August are peak season with the warmest water but also more visitors.

Are dogs allowed on the beaches in La Flotte?

Regulations for dogs on beaches in La Flotte, specifically Plage de l'Arnérault, state that dogs are forbidden year-round according to some sources, while others suggest restrictions mainly apply during peak summer bathing hours or seasons. It's best to check local signage or the Mairie (town hall) for the most current rules.
Plage de l'Arenault
Plage de l'Arenault

People Also Ask

Is it easy to get to the beaches in La Flotte by bike?

Yes, La Flotte and the Île de Ré are very bike-friendly. Plage de l'Arnérault is easily accessible by dedicated cycle paths, and cycling is a popular way to reach the beaches and explore the island.
Plage de l'Arenault
Plage de l'Arenault

Are there any facilities like toilets or cafes at Plage de l'Arnérault?

Yes, Plage de l'Arnérault is generally well-equipped during the summer season. You can usually find public toilets, showers, and often a beach club or nearby cafes and restaurants close to the port for refreshments.
Plage de l'Arenault
Plage de l'Arenault

How do the beaches in La Flotte compare to those in Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré?

La Flotte's Plage de l'Arnérault is a charming, relatively sheltered village beach ideal for families. Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré, on the other hand, is known for its long, expansive sandy beaches facing the open Atlantic, which are popular for various water sports and offer a wilder feel.
Plage de l'Arenault
Plage de l'Arenault

What is "pêche à pied" and can you do it at La Flotte?

"Pêche à pied" is the French term for shore fishing or shellfish gathering done on foot at low tide. It's a popular activity in La Flotte, where low tide exposes large areas where you can search for clams, cockles, oysters, and other shellfish. Remember to respect local regulations and size limits.

Is parking available near the beaches in La Flotte?

Yes, there is parking available near Plage de l'Arnérault and the port area in La Flotte. However, it can become limited and is often paid during the peak summer months, so arriving early or cycling is recommended.
Plage de l'Arenault
Plage de l'Arenault

Are La Flotte's beaches generally crowded?

Plage de l'Arnérault can get quite busy, especially during July and August and on sunny weekends, due to its popularity and proximity to the village. Visiting outside of peak hours or in the shoulder seasons (June, September) may offer a quieter experience.
Plage de l'Arenault
Plage de l'Arenault

What is the water quality like for swimming at La Flotte beaches?

The bathing water quality at Plage de l'Arnérault in La Flotte is regularly monitored during the season. It generally meets European standards for good quality, and information is often displayed publicly near the beach or available from the local tourist office. The beach has also been awarded the Pavillon Bleu (Blue Flag) label, indicating good environmental standards.
Plage de l'Arenault
Plage de l'Arenault

Beaches for Every Taste

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The fastest way to find the best La Flotte Beaches

La Flotte Beaches Map

Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

La Flotte: Weather Today

📅 Saturday, October 25, 2025
Today is unfortunately not a great beach day in La Flotte. Be prepared for rain as it is very likely, and could be significant. The wind will be strong, so be careful. The sky will be heavily clouded. The sea temperature is 15.9 °C, which is too cold for swimming. With a maximum air temperature of 15.1 °C, it will feel cool. The waves are moderate, so it's not ideal for water activities.
🌬️

Air

Low / High12.6°C/15.1°C
Feels Like (High)13°C
🌊

Sea

Sea Temperature15.9 °C
Wave Height1.5 m
🌧️

Rain

Rain Chance100%
Rainfall8.9 mm
Rain Duration5 h
🌞

Sun

Sunrise / Sunset08:36/19:01
Sunshine Hours8.2 hrs
UV Index3.25
Cloud Cover96%
💨

Wind

Speed26.9 km/h
Gusts40 km/h
DirectionNW

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