Saint-Paul-lès-Dax Beaches

Overview

Saint-Paul-lès-Dax offers a unique base for a beach holiday in Nouvelle-Aquitaine. While the town itself is known for its thermal spas, it is not directly on the coast. The famous Atlantic beaches are just a short 30 to 40-minute drive away. This makes it an ideal spot for travelers who want to combine relaxing spa treatments with exciting day trips to the ocean.

You can find a beach experience right in town at Plage du Lac, where the calm waters of Lac de Christus are perfect for families. For the classic Atlantic coast experience, the nearby town of Hossegor is a must-visit. It is home to the world-renowned surf spot Plage La Graviere, known for its powerful waves. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, Plage des Bourdaines in Seignosse is a favorite among locals for its more relaxed atmosphere.

The area also boasts beaches with unique landscapes, like the wild and scenic Plage du Courant where a river meets the sea. Nearby Capbreton offers a charming and family-friendly beachfront as another excellent option. For a complete look at all the coastal gems within reach, be sure to explore our full list of the best beaches in the region.

Plage Centrale de Capbreton

The closest and most convenient main town beach for visitors from Saint-Paul-lès-Dax, offering a full range of amenities and a lively atmosphere. As Capbreton's main urban beach, it sits directly in front of the town's shops and restaurants, creating a vibrant, social setting popular with families and young people. This large stretch of sand is protected from the strongest ocean swells, making its waves more suitable for beginner surfers and relaxed swimming. It combines the energy of a trendy resort town with a classic, relaxed beach day feel. The pleasant seafront promenade is perfect for a stroll, connecting the beach to the heart of the town's summer entertainment.

Dune du Pilat

An unforgettable regional icon, Europe's tallest sand dune is a natural wonder that is widely considered worth the day trip for its spectacular views. This immense, ever-moving wall of sand is constantly being reshaped by the wind and tides, creating a powerful and majestic landscape. The rewarding climb to its summit reveals a breathtaking 360-degree panorama. To one side lies the vast Atlantic Ocean and the mouth of the Arcachon Basin, while the other is a sea of green from the immense Landes forest. Standing at the top, where the ocean seems to meet the sky, is a truly memorable experience. It is a place that showcases the raw beauty and power of nature.

FAQ

People Also Ask

Are there actually any beaches in Saint-Paul-lès-Dax?

Saint-Paul-lès-Dax is an inland spa town and does not have any ocean beaches. It is famous for its thermal baths and the Lac de Christus, a lake that has some small, sandy areas. The true Atlantic coast beaches are located about a 30-40 minute drive away.

How far is Saint-Paul-lès-Dax from the ocean?

The nearest Atlantic Ocean beaches, such as those in Hossegor, Capbreton, and Seignosse, are approximately 30 to 35 kilometers (about 19-22 miles) away. By car, the journey typically takes between 30 and 40 minutes, depending on traffic.

Can you swim at the lake in Saint-Paul-lès-Dax?

Yes, you can swim in Lac de Christus. The lake features designated swimming areas and sandy patches that function as local beaches. It's a popular spot for families and those looking for a calmer alternative to the ocean, with facilities like sports centers and restaurants nearby.

Is Saint-Paul-lès-Dax a good base for a beach holiday?

Saint-Paul-lès-Dax can be a good base if you prefer a quieter, spa-focused town and don't mind driving to the coast. Accommodation can be more affordable than in the popular seaside resorts. It's ideal for a mixed holiday of relaxation, thermal treatments, and day trips to the ocean beaches.

Do I need a car to visit the beaches from Saint-Paul-lès-Dax?

While having a car is the most convenient way to explore the various coastal beaches, it is not strictly necessary. Regional bus services, like Trans-Landes line 517, connect Dax and Saint-Paul-lès-Dax to coastal towns such as Hossegor and Capbreton. However, a car offers more flexibility for visiting more secluded spots.

Which is better for a day trip from Saint-Paul-lès-Dax: Hossegor or Capbreton?

It depends on your preference. Hossegor is known as Europe's surfing capital, with a trendy, vibrant atmosphere and famous surf spots like La Gravière. Capbreton, its neighbor, has a more relaxed, family-friendly vibe with a fishing harbor, a calmer beachfront, and many restaurants.

Plage La Graviere

What are the best beaches near Saint-Paul-lès-Dax for families?

For families, the beaches at Capbreton (like Plage Centrale) and Vieux-Boucau are excellent choices. They are supervised in summer and tend to have a calmer atmosphere than the more surf-centric beaches. The marine lake at Vieux-Boucau also offers a very safe swimming environment for young children.

What are 'baïnes' and are they dangerous?

Baïnes are temporary pools of water that form between the shore and a sandbank on the Atlantic coast. They look calm but can create powerful rip currents as the tide goes out, which can be very dangerous. Always swim on supervised beaches between the designated flags and follow the advice of lifeguards.

Is it cheaper to stay in Saint-Paul-lès-Dax and travel to the beach?

Generally, yes. Accommodation in inland towns like Saint-Paul-lès-Dax tends to be more affordable than in high-demand coastal resorts like Hossegor or Biarritz, especially during peak season. This makes it a budget-friendly option for travelers who are happy to drive or take a bus to the coast.

What are the best surf spots near Saint-Paul-lès-Dax?

The world-renowned surf spots of Hossegor and Seignosse are the top choices, about a 30-40 minute drive away. Spots like La Nord and La Gravière in Hossegor offer powerful, hollow waves for experienced surfers, while the beaches in Seignosse and Capbreton provide varied conditions suitable for different levels.

Plage La Graviere