Léon Beaches

Overview

Léon offers a unique French beach holiday, nestled between a serene lake and the wild Atlantic coast. While the town itself sits slightly inland, it provides easy access to two distinct water experiences. Visitors can choose the calm, warm waters of the town's lake or cycle through the pine forest to reach the expansive sandy beaches of the Atlantic Ocean, known for their powerful waves.

Our guide highlights the best of the area, from the stunning natural beauty of Plage du Courant d'Huchet, where a river carves its way to the sea, to the relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere at Plage du Lac. For serious surfers, the legendary waves of Plage La Graviere in nearby Hossegor are a must-visit. Many also flock to the classic shores of Moliets Plage for its quintessential Landes coast experience.

The journey to the ocean is part of the charm, with scenic cycle paths winding through the forest. This unique setting means you can enjoy a peaceful lakeside morning and a dramatic ocean sunset on the same day. Whether you seek a gentle swim, a nature walk, or a world-class surf session, the coastline near Léon delivers. Explore our full guide to discover even more beaches waiting for you.

Top Beaches

Plage de Moliets

The main beach for Léon, offering vast sands, surf schools, and a lively atmosphere right where the town meets the sea. This is the energetic heart of the resort, a wide, west-facing expanse of fine sand that delivers spectacular sunsets. Backed by the lush pine forests and dunes typical of the Landes coast, the beach maintains a natural feel despite its popularity. It is one of the largest beaches on this stretch of coast, providing ample space for both sunbathers and those looking to try the consistent waves. Just to the north, the famous Courant d'Huchet nature reserve meets the ocean, adding a touch of wild scenery to the vibrant setting. The beach is the social hub where you can find shops and cafes, making it the quintessential spot for a classic day of sun, surf, and socializing.

FAQ

Is it better to swim in the lake or the ocean in Léon?

It depends on your preference. The Lac de Léon offers calmer, warmer waters, making it ideal for families with children and those who prefer a peaceful swim. The Atlantic Ocean beaches nearby, like Moliets Plage or Saint-Girons Plage, have powerful waves perfect for surfing but can have strong currents, known as 'baïnes', which require caution. The lake is generally safer for casual swimming, while the ocean offers a more classic, dynamic beach experience.

How far are the ocean beaches from the town of Léon and how do I get there?

The town of Léon is not directly on the coast; the nearest ocean beaches are several kilometers away. For example, Moliets Plage is about 10-12 km from Léon. The most popular way to reach the beaches is by cycling via the Vélodyssée, a dedicated cycle path that runs through the forest. Driving is also an option, with parking available at the beaches, though it can be busy in summer. Some visitors also use local buses or even hitchhike.

Are the beaches near Léon safe for families with young children?

For families with young children, the beach at Lac de Léon is highly recommended. It is supervised in July and August, the water is shallow, calm, and warmer than the ocean. The Atlantic beaches have strong waves and currents ('baïnes') that can be dangerous. While these ocean beaches are supervised in designated areas (marked by flags), the lake provides a much safer and more relaxed environment for little ones.

What are 'baïnes' and are they a danger on the beaches near Léon?

Yes, 'baïnes' are a significant phenomenon on the Atlantic beaches of the Landes coast. They are temporary tidal pools that form between the shore and a sandbank. While they may look calm, they can create powerful rip currents as the tide goes out, which can pull swimmers out to sea. It is crucial to always swim in the supervised zones marked by blue flags, as lifeguards are trained to identify these conditions and ensure bather safety.

Are there accommodations within walking distance of the beach?

In Léon itself, you are within walking distance of the lake beach, but not the ocean. To be within walking distance of the Atlantic, you would need to book accommodation in the coastal resorts like Moliets-et-Maa, Vieux-Boucau, or Saint-Girons Plage. These towns offer apartments, hotels, and campsites that are just a short walk through the dunes to the sand.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

What is the best time of year to visit Léon for a beach holiday?

The best time for a classic beach holiday is from June to September, when the weather is warmest and the ocean water temperature is between 20-22°C. July and August are the peak months with the most services and supervised swimming. However, spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are also excellent, offering pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and ideal conditions for activities like cycling and hiking to the beaches.

Can you surf at the beaches near Léon?

Yes, the Landes coast is a famous surfing destination. Beaches near Léon, such as Moliets, Messanges, and Vielle-Saint-Girons, offer excellent beach breaks for all levels. There are numerous surf schools and rental shops in the coastal towns. While Hossegor to the south is known for its world-class waves for experts, the spots closer to Léon are great for beginners and intermediate surfers.

Are there any nudist beaches near Léon?

Yes, naturism is common on the Landes coast. There are officially supervised nudist beaches at Arnaoutchot (in Vielle-Saint-Girons) and Plage des Culs Nus in Hossegor. Additionally, naturism is often tolerated on sections of large beaches away from the main supervised areas, such as at Plage des Chênes Lièges in Moliets and Cap de L'Homy.

Plage des Chênes Lièges

Cap de L'Homy

People Also Ask

What is the beach at the Courant d'Huchet like?

The beach at the mouth of the Courant d'Huchet is a wild and natural beach located where the river from Lac de Léon meets the Atlantic Ocean. It's part of a protected nature reserve and is known for its unspoiled, scenic beauty. It's less of a swimming beach and more of a destination for nature walks and enjoying the unique landscape where the forest and dunes meet the sea.

Plage du Courant

Can I bring my dog to the beaches near Léon?

Dog policies vary. At Lac de Léon, dogs are generally allowed on a leash, but they are prohibited from swimming. On the ocean beaches, rules are stricter, especially in the main supervised areas during summer. However, some beaches like Cap de L'Homy and Plage de Messanges are known to be more dog-friendly, particularly outside the main swimming zones. It's always best to check local signage upon arrival.

Cap de L'Homy

Plage de Messanges

Is it better to stay in Léon or a coastal town like Moliets?

Choosing between Léon and a coastal town like Moliets depends on your holiday style. Stay in Léon for a more authentic village atmosphere, with its charming market, proximity to the tranquil lake, and a quieter base from which to explore the region. Stay in Moliets if you want direct access to the ocean, a livelier beach resort vibe with more surf schools and beach bars, and to be in the heart of the coastal action.

What is the Vélodyssée and can I use it to visit different beaches?

The Vélodyssée is a long-distance cycle route that runs along the French Atlantic coast, passing right through the forest near Léon. It is an excellent, safe, and scenic way to explore the area. You can easily cycle from Léon to reach the beaches at Moliets, Messanges, and Vielle-Saint-Girons. The paths are mostly flat and paved, making it a perfect activity for families and cyclists of all levels.

Plage de Messanges