Saint-Jean-de-Monts Beaches

Overview

Saint-Jean-de-Monts is a favored seaside destination in France's Pays de la Loire region, celebrated for its extensive coastline. Visitors will discover long, inviting stretches of fine, golden sand. Its reputation as a family-friendly resort is well-deserved, with many beaches offering gentle slopes into the water, making them ideal for all ages.

Our editor's picks highlight some of the best spots. La Grande Plage is the main, bustling beach, perfect for those who enjoy a vibrant atmosphere. For a memorable excursion, the picturesque Plage des Dames on Île de Noirmoutier is a regional icon. Those seeking tranquility will appreciate the wild, natural beauty of Plage de La Davière, bordered by dunes and forest. Meanwhile, Plage des Demoiselles is prized for its scenic dunes and relaxed, family-oriented environment.

The beaches here are not just for relaxing; they are a playground for various activities like sand yachting and watersports. The Atlantic tides significantly transform the beaches, revealing vast expanses of sand at low tide, perfect for long walks or beach games. To discover even more coastal treasures, including quieter spots, explore our full guide to the beaches in Saint-Jean-de-Monts.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Saint-Jean-de-Monts good for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Saint-Jean-de-Monts is renowned as a family-friendly resort. Many of its beaches, like Plage des Demoiselles and Plage des Oiseaux, offer gentle slopes into the water, fine sand, and are supervised during summer. There are also kids' clubs and activities available.

What are the beaches like in Saint-Jean-de-Monts? Are they sandy?

The beaches in Saint-Jean-de-Monts are known for their long, vast stretches of fine, golden sand. The main beaches extend for about 8 kilometers and are generally wide, especially at low tide.

Can you swim in the sea at Saint-Jean-de-Monts and what's the water like?

Yes, you can swim in the sea at Saint-Jean-de-Monts. The water quality is regularly monitored and often awarded the Blue Flag, indicating good standards. The beaches generally have a gentle slope, making them suitable for swimming, especially for families. Water temperatures are warmest in July and August, typically between 20-25°C. It's advisable to swim during high tide as the water will be warmer.

When is the best time to go to the beach in Saint-Jean-de-Monts?

The best time for a beach holiday in Saint-Jean-de-Monts is typically from June to September when the weather is warmest and most activities are available. July and August are the peak months with average temperatures between 20-25°C and warmer sea temperatures. Spring (April-May) can also be pleasant with milder temperatures, though the sea will be cooler.

Where can I find accommodation with easy access to the beach in Saint-Jean-de-Monts?

There are many accommodation options with good beach access, including hotels, apartments, and campsites located along the Esplanade de la Mer or within a short walk or cycle from the main beaches like Plage des Demoiselles or Plage des Oiseaux. Some campsites also offer direct beach access or shuttle services.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Are dogs allowed on the beaches in Saint-Jean-de-Monts?

Dog access varies by beach and time of year. Some beaches, like La Parée du Jonc, La Davière, and Les Tonnelles, allow dogs year-round if kept on a leash. On other main beaches, dogs are often restricted or prohibited, especially during the peak summer season (typically June to September) or during certain hours. It's always best to check local signage.

Plage de la Parée du Jonc

Plage de La Davière

Plage des Tonnelles

What's the tide like at Saint-Jean-de-Monts and how does it affect the beaches?

Saint-Jean-de-Monts experiences significant Atlantic tides. At low tide, the beaches become very expansive, revealing a vast area of sand, which is great for walking, sand yachting, and shell-collecting. At high tide, the water comes much closer to the dunes or promenade. Swimming is often recommended at high or rising tide as the water can be warmer.

Are there naturist beaches in or near Saint-Jean-de-Monts?

While Saint-Jean-de-Monts itself doesn't have officially designated naturist-only beaches, naturism is tolerated on certain beaches nearby, such as the Plage des Lays (in La Barre-de-Monts, just south) and a zone on Plage de la Parée Grollier (Notre Dame de Monts). Plage des Salins in Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez also has a naturist area.

Plage des Lays

People Also Ask

What activities can you do on the beaches besides swimming and sunbathing?

There's a wide range of activities! Popular options include sand yachting, kitesurfing, windsurfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and beach volleyball. The long esplanade is perfect for walking and cycling, and the pier (estacade) is great for a stroll and fishing. Many beaches also have children's clubs and playgrounds.

Is it easy to find parking near the beaches in Saint-Jean-de-Monts?

There are numerous free parking areas along the main esplanade and near popular beach access points like Plage des Demoiselles and Plage des Oiseaux. However, during peak summer months (July and August), it can become challenging to find a spot, especially close to the central beaches. Arriving early or using alternative transport like bicycles is advisable then.

Are there showers and toilets available at the beaches in Saint-Jean-de-Monts?

Yes, many of the main supervised beaches, such as Plage des Demoiselles, Plage de la Dune, and Plage des Oiseaux, are equipped with public toilets and showers, often free to use.

Which beach is best for families with young children in Saint-Jean-de-Monts?

Plage des Demoiselles is highly recommended for families with young children. It has fine sand, a gentle slope into the sea with few waves, and is supervised in summer. It also features kids' clubs, totems to help children find their way, and nearby amenities. Plage des Oiseaux is another excellent family-friendly option with similar features and activities.

Are the beaches in Saint-Jean-de-Monts accessible for people with reduced mobility?

Yes, efforts have been made to improve accessibility. Several beaches, including Plage des Oiseaux and Plage des Demoiselles, are labelled 'Handiplage' and offer facilities like access ramps, adapted toilets, and the loan of 'tiralos' (beach wheelchairs) during the supervised season.

Plage des de moiselles

What are some quieter, more natural beaches in Saint-Jean-de-Monts away from the crowds?

For a more natural and less crowded experience, consider Plage de la Davière or Plage de la Parée du Jonc. These are more to the north, backed by dunes and forest, offering a wilder feel. Plage du Golf is also known for being more secluded, though access can be more challenging.

Plage de La Davière

Plage de la Parée du Jonc

Are there any specific rules for using the beaches in Saint-Jean-de-Monts I should know about?

General rules include respecting the environment, not leaving litter, and adhering to swimming safety flags. Specific regulations apply to dogs (restrictions on many central beaches in summer) and horses (allowed on certain beaches outside peak hours/season). Kitesurfing and other watersports may have designated zones or times. It's always good to check local signage for the most current rules.