Plage des Sablères, also known as Plage Nord, is situated in the picturesque town of Vieux-Boucau-les-Bains, within the Landes department of Aquitaine, France. This beach is renowned for its untouched beauty and is often referred to as the 'wild beach' of Vieux-Boucau. It is nestled away from the town center, approximately 500 meters, providing a sense of solitude and tranquility. This secluded location, coupled with its vast expanse, makes it an ideal spot for long, peaceful walks.
The natural landscape of Plage des Sablères is characterized by high dunes that contribute to its wild charm. It is located on the Cote Savage and is often described as '100% nature'. The beach provides an impressive view of the Port d'Albret dike towards the south, adding to its scenic appeal.
Plage des Sablères is a popular spot among the surfing community due to the great waves it offers, making it one of the top choices for surfers. However, the beach can become quite crowded, especially during the high season. Despite the crowd, lifeguards diligently maintain order, ensuring that surfers and swimmers are kept in their respective zones. This is particularly important as the beach is known for its strong currents and fast-rising water levels in the afternoon.
In terms of amenities, Plage des Sablères is somewhat lacking. There are no toilets or showers directly on the beach. However, a toilet is available at the lifeguard house. Additionally, a shop located nearby offers beachgoers the opportunity to rent surfing equipment.
The beach is accessible via Avenue des Dunes. There is a free parking lot adjacent to the trail leading to the beach, which is characterized by a steep slope due to the high dunes. The beach also features a surveillance post, which is operational from the end of June to the end of August, ensuring the safety of beachgoers. Interestingly, the northernmost part of the beach is a known area where naturism is tolerated.
