Lorient Beaches

Overview

Lorient, in Southern Brittany, is a superb beach destination offering a remarkable variety of coastal experiences. Whether you seek the lively atmosphere of a popular family beach, the wild, windswept shores perfect for surfing, or a quiet cove for a peaceful escape, you will find it here. The region is defined by its clean, inviting waters and a coastline that presents everything from vast stretches of sand to dramatic rocky inlets, ensuring a perfect match for every type of beachgoer.

Among the area's highlights is Plage de Toulhars, a sheltered town beach ideal for a quick, relaxing dip close to the city's amenities. For a classic day on the sand with plenty of activity, Plage de Kerguelen is the most popular choice, serving as a hub for both sunbathers and water sports enthusiasts. The coastline near Guidel is famous for its excellent waves, with Plage du Loc'h standing out as the premier spot for the surfing community. For a truly memorable excursion, a short ferry ride takes you to the island of Groix, home to the iconic Les Grands Sables, a unique convex-shaped beach known for its crystal-clear water and stunning scenery.

The character of Lorient's beaches is often described as more rugged and natural than other Breton resorts, with a dynamic atmosphere fueled by its reputation as a top surfing destination. While our editor's picks showcase the diversity of the coast, they are only the beginning of what this region has to offer. From bustling promenades to secluded, hidden gems, our complete guide explores the full range of beaches waiting to be discovered in Lorient.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Lorient a good destination for a beach holiday?

Yes, Lorient is an excellent destination for a beach holiday, offering a wide variety of beaches to suit different tastes. You can find large, lively beaches perfect for families, wild and windswept shores for nature lovers, and spots with great waves for surfers. The area, known as Lorient Bretagne Sud, boasts clean, healthy bathing waters and many beaches are supervised in July and August. Beyond the beach, Lorient has a rich maritime history, a vibrant city center, and hosts the famous Festival Interceltique in August.

What is the water temperature like for swimming in Lorient?

The sea temperature in Lorient is typical for Brittany's southern coast, which means it's quite refreshing. During the summer months of July and August, the water temperature averages around 17.4°C (about 63°F) and can occasionally warm up to 20°C (68°F) on very warm days. While many people enjoy swimming, especially on hot days, some may find it brisk. It's common to see children and adults alike enjoying the water, but it's not the warm water of the Mediterranean.

Which are the best beaches in Lorient for families with young children?

For families with young children, Plage de Toulhars in Larmor-Plage is a top choice. It's sheltered within a cove, resulting in calm, shallow water perfect for toddlers. It also has a kids' club in the summer. Another excellent option is Fort-Bloqué in Ploemeur, which is a huge, gently sloping sandy beach with summer supervision. On the nearby island of Groix, Les Grands Sables beach is also ideal for children with its fine sand and clear, supervised water.

Plage de Toulhars

Les Grands Sables

Can you surf near Lorient and what are the best spots?

Absolutely. The Lorient area is a popular surfing destination in Brittany. The best and most well-known spots are at Guidel-Plages, particularly the beaches of Le Loc'h and La Falaise, which attract a young, dynamic crowd. The area even holds a "Surfing Town" label. For more experienced surfers seeking powerful waves, the Pointe des Kaolin in Ploemeur is a recognized spot. In winter, many local surfers head to Toulhars beach in Larmor-Plage.

Plage du Loc'h

Plage de la Falaise

Plage de Toulhars

How do you get to the beaches from Lorient city centre?

Most of the popular beaches are not in the immediate city center but are easily accessible. The beaches of Larmor-Plage, such as Toulhars and Kerguelen, are only about a 10-15 minute drive from the center. There is also a good local bus network (CTRL) that connects the city center to the coastal towns of Larmor-Plage, Ploemeur, and Guidel-Plages, making it possible to reach the beaches without a car. For the island of Groix, you need to take a 45-minute ferry from Lorient's ferry terminal.

Plage de Toulhars

Plage de Kerguelen

Are the beaches near Lorient crowded?

Crowds can vary depending on the beach and the time of year. Popular beaches like those in Larmor-Plage and Guidel-Plages can be busy in July and August, especially on sunny days. However, the beaches in the Lorient area are generally vast, with long stretches of sand, so you can almost always find a space for your towel even in peak season. For a quieter experience, consider visiting smaller coves like Petit Pérello in Ploemeur or visiting in the shoulder seasons of June or September.

What is the best time of year for a beach holiday in Lorient?

The best time for a beach holiday in Lorient is from June to September. July and August offer the warmest weather and water temperatures, a vibrant atmosphere, and most beach services like lifeguards and kids' clubs are operational. However, this is also the busiest period. For fewer crowds with still pleasant weather for beach activities, June and September are excellent choices. The famous Festival Interceltique de Lorient takes place in August, making the city particularly lively.

Are there any hidden gem or secret beaches near Lorient?

Yes, for those willing to explore, there are quieter, more secluded spots. Petit Pérello beach in Ploemeur is considered a local secret; it's an adorable cove nestled between rocks, sheltered from the wind, with a view of the Ile de Groix. Plage de Kerpape in Larmor-Plage is also known for being more serene and less crowded than its larger neighbors. Exploring the coastal paths (GR 34) is a great way to discover your own hidden coves.

Plage de Kerpape

People Also Ask

How do the beaches in Lorient compare to those in Carnac or Quiberon?

Lorient's beaches, particularly around Guidel and Ploemeur, are well-known for their wilder, more rugged feel and are top spots for surfing. Carnac and the Quiberon peninsula are famous for their long, sheltered, south-facing sandy beaches with generally calmer waters, making them very popular with families. While Lorient offers a mix of everything from city-adjacent beaches to surf spots, Carnac and Quiberon are more classic seaside resort destinations focused on expansive, family-friendly beaches.

Can you recommend a beach with restaurants and cafes right on the waterfront?

Plage de Port-Maria in Larmor-Plage is the perfect choice for this. It's known as the liveliest beach in the area, with a promenade lined with numerous terraces, ice cream parlors, bars, and restaurants overlooking the sea. You can easily go from swimming and sunbathing to enjoying a meal or a drink with a view. Plage de Toulhars, also in Larmor-Plage, is nearby and offers similar amenities along its promenade.

Plage de Toulhars

Is it worth taking the ferry to the Île de Groix for its beaches?

Absolutely. The Île de Groix, a short ferry ride from Lorient, offers some of the most beautiful and unique beaches in Brittany. The most famous is Plage des Grands Sables, one of the few convex beaches in Europe, known for its fine sand and crystal-clear water. The island also has charming coves and other beautiful beaches like the Plage des Sables Rouges (Red Sands Beach). A day trip to cycle around the island and explore its unspoiled coastline is a highlight for many visitors to Lorient.

Red Sands Beach

Are there any naturist beaches in the Lorient area?

Yes, there is a well-known and significant naturist beach in the region. The Naturist Beach Erdeven-Kerminihy, located between Gâvres and Quiberon, is a large, officially recognized naturist beach known for its expansive length and wild, natural setting within the protected dunes.