Plage de Riez is a serene beach located in the Vendée department of the Pays de la Loire region in France, within the town of Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez. It is known for its tranquil atmosphere, with the soothing sound of waves in the background and the opportunity to enjoy the sunset due to its west-facing orientation. The beach is predominantly sandy, with a fair amount of pebbles and seaweed. It is surrounded by dunes and is situated in the forest of Pays de Monts, further enhancing its natural beauty.
The beach is approximately 1 km from the center of Sion sur l'Océan and extends to Sion sur l'Océan, where the coastline becomes more rocky. It is the first wild beach of Sion sur l'Océan and Saint-Hilaire, offering a beautiful stretch of sand in a preserved setting. There are many trails through the dunes that lead to quieter areas to the north of the beach, making them ideal for beach access or enjoyable family walks.
Plage de Riez is easily accessible, with a large free parking lot located at the end of the road. To reach the beach from Sion sur l'Océan, visitors need to take the direction of Saint Jean and follow the signs. During the summer, the beach is monitored by a lookout, ensuring the safety of the visitors.
Adjacent to the beach is a 3-star camping site, Plage de Riez, Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez, nestled in a peaceful forest area. The camping site is open from April 8th to October 1st, offering direct access to the beach and a heated indoor swimming pool. It provides a friendly and family-oriented atmosphere with seasonal animations and various activities such as a playground, petanque, and lotos. The camping site features amenities including a heated outdoor pool, playgrounds, a multi-sports field, a bar, a snack bar, and a restaurant that is open on weekends and every day from June 15th to August 30th.
Accommodation options at the camping site range from mobile homes, bungalows, and tents to camping pitches with private sanitary facilities. For the convenience of the guests, the reception operates on specific days and hours, depending on the season. With its proximity to the city center and the camping site, Plage de Riez becomes very popular in the summer. Despite its popularity, the beach maintains a charming and tranquil ambiance, making it an ideal location for a peaceful getaway.