Rivedoux-Plage Beaches

Overview

Rivedoux-Plage serves as your gateway to the beautiful Île de Ré, conveniently located just across the bridge from La Rochelle. This village is home to two main sandy stretches, offering different seaside pleasures. The south-facing Plage Sud is particularly appealing for families and swimming. Meanwhile, Plage Nord Rivedoux is a haven for kitesurfing and windsurfing enthusiasts.

The island's diverse coastline includes editor's picks like the family-favorite Plage de Gros Joncs with its calm waters. You can explore Plage de la Cible for its historic charm near Saint-Martin-de-Ré. For those seeking waves, Plage des Grenettes offers a more rugged surf experience. These highlights, along with Rivedoux's own shores, showcase the variety available.

Rivedoux-Plage generally offers a peaceful atmosphere, reflecting a gentle way of life. You can enjoy swimming at Plage Sud regardless of the tide. Beyond sunbathing, the area is popular for shore fishing and exploring scenic cycling paths. For a comprehensive look at all the coastal gems, be sure to check our longer list of beaches on Île de Ré.

FAQ

What are the beaches like in Rivedoux-Plage?

Rivedoux-Plage, the first village you encounter on Île de Ré after crossing the bridge, boasts two main sandy beach areas. The South beach (Plage Sud) faces La Rochelle and is known for being family-friendly, ideal for swimming, and offers various water sports. The North beach (Plage Nord) faces the Vendée coast and is particularly popular for kitesurfing and windsurfing due to its wind conditions. Both offer long stretches of fine sand.

Plage Sud

Plage Nord

Which beach in Rivedoux-Plage is best for families and swimming?

The South beach (Plage Sud) is generally recommended for families and swimming. It is supervised during the summer season, and swimming is possible regardless of the tide. It also has amenities like a kids' beach club and is equipped for disabled access.

Plage Sud

Are there good beaches for kitesurfing or windsurfing in Rivedoux-Plage?

Yes, the North beach (Plage Nord) in Rivedoux-Plage is well-regarded and specifically popular for kitesurfing and windsurfing. It's known for its favorable wind conditions, and a section of this beach is reserved for these activities.

Plage Nord

Can you swim at Rivedoux-Plage beaches at low tide?

Yes, at the South beach (Plage Sud) of Rivedoux-Plage, swimming is generally possible at both high and low tide. This makes it a reliable option for a swim throughout the day.

Plage Sud

Are there accommodations with easy beach access in Rivedoux-Plage?

Yes, Rivedoux-Plage offers a range of accommodations, including hotels, B&Bs, campsites, and vacation rentals, some of which are located close to the beaches or offer convenient access. Being a relatively small village, many places are within walking or cycling distance of the North or South beaches.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

What's the best time of year to visit Rivedoux-Plage for a beach holiday?

The best time for a beach holiday in Rivedoux-Plage is generally from mid-June to mid-September. For activities specifically requiring warmer weather and sea temperatures, mid-July to late August is often cited as optimal.

Is Rivedoux-Plage a good destination for a quiet beach holiday?

Rivedoux-Plage offers a generally peaceful atmosphere, especially outside the peak summer months. While it's the first village on Île de Ré and can be lively, its beaches, particularly the expansive North Beach or exploring coves, can offer quieter spots. The village itself is described as having a gentle way of life.

Are dogs allowed on the beaches in Rivedoux-Plage?

Dog access on Rivedoux-Plage beaches is typically restricted during the peak season. For example, on the supervised South beach and the North beach, dogs are generally forbidden from June 1st to September 30th. Access may be tolerated during other months, but it's always best to check local signage.

People Also Ask

Is it easy to get to Rivedoux-Plage beaches from La Rochelle?

Yes, Rivedoux-Plage is the first village you reach after crossing the Île de Ré bridge from La Rochelle, making its beaches very accessible. You can travel by car, bicycle, or use public transport, as there are regular bus services from La Rochelle.

Is there parking available near the beaches in Rivedoux-Plage?

Yes, parking is available. For instance, the Sablanceaux car park offers free parking year-round and provides access to the South beach. There are also other parking areas near the beaches, though some may have height restrictions or fill up quickly in peak season.

What other activities can you do at Rivedoux-Plage besides swimming and sunbathing?

Besides swimming and sunbathing, Rivedoux-Plage offers various activities. These include water sports like kitesurfing, windsurfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Shore fishing (pêche à pied) is popular, especially near the Chauveau lighthouse at low tide. The area also has numerous cycling and walking paths with scenic views.

Are the beaches in Rivedoux-Plage accessible for people with reduced mobility?

Yes, efforts have been made to improve accessibility. The South beach (Plage Sud) in Rivedoux-Plage is notably equipped with facilities for people with reduced mobility, including access ramps and bathing wheelchairs (Tiralos and Hippocampe chairs). It has even received Tourisme et Handicap certification.

Plage Sud

What is shore fishing (pêche à pied) like at Rivedoux-Plage?

Shore fishing is a popular activity at Rivedoux-Plage, particularly on the South beach near the Chauveau lighthouse and along the North beach, especially during high tides with a significant coefficient (minimum 80) or at low tide. You can find shellfish like clams, cockles, and shrimp. It's important to respect local fishing regulations and size limits.

Are there any beach clubs or facilities for children at Rivedoux-Plage?

Yes, the South beach (Plage Sud) in Rivedoux-Plage typically has a beach club called “Les Moussaillons” during the season, welcoming children aged 5-11 with various activities and swimming lessons. The South beach is also generally well-suited for families with children.

How do the beaches at Rivedoux-Plage compare to other beaches on Île de Ré, like those at Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré?

Rivedoux-Plage, being the entry point to the island, offers convenient and distinct North and South facing beaches known for family swimming and watersports respectively. Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré, further along the south coast, is renowned for its long, sandy beaches like Plage des Gollandières and Gros Jonc, which are also very popular with families and offer various nautical activities. While both offer beautiful sandy stretches, Le Bois-Plage is often highlighted for having some of the island's most extensive beaches suitable for bathing even at low tide.