Sainte-Marie-de-Ré Beaches

Overview

Sainte-Marie-de-Ré invites you to discover a charming and often wilder side of Île de Ré's coastline. Its beaches are primarily sandy, offering pleasant spots for relaxation. However, visitors should note that the shoreline can reveal more rocks and the island's historic fish traps as the tide recedes. For the best swimming conditions, it is generally advisable to enjoy the waters at high tide.

The village boasts a variety of appealing coastal destinations. Plage de Montamer is a favored spot for families, acting as a central hub with a welcoming atmosphere. For those keen on surfing, Plage des Grenettes provides a more untamed environment and is the primary surf location in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré. The picturesque Plage de Trousse-Chemise offers an enchanting natural retreat, while Plage de Gros Joncs is recognized as a major island hotspot, bustling with activity.

Beyond swimming and sunbathing, the beaches here offer opportunities for shore fishing and scenic coastal walks, reflecting the area's natural appeal. While some beaches are lively, you can also find more tranquil options like Plage de la Salée for a quieter day by the sea. Explore our comprehensive guide for a longer list of beaches to find your perfect seaside escape in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré.

Top Beaches

FAQ

When is the best time to swim at the beaches in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré because of the tides?

Swimming at the beaches in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré, such as Montamer and La Salée, is generally best at high tide. At low tide, the coastline can become rocky, and large expanses of the seabed are exposed, making swimming difficult. Some beaches like Basse Benaie are only suitable for swimming at high tide.

Plage de Montamer

Plage de la Salée

Plage de la Basse Benaie

Are the beaches in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré good for families with children?

Yes, some beaches in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré are family-friendly. Plage de Montamer is particularly suitable as it is supervised during the summer season (typically July and August) and has calmer waters. It also has a park nearby with amenities. However, be aware that some other beaches in the area can have more rocks, especially at low tide.

Plage de Montamer

Which beach in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré is best for surfing?

Plage des Grenettes is the most well-known and popular surf spot in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré, and indeed one of the main spots on Île de Ré. It's known for its waves suitable for various levels, including beginners and longboarders. The spot is frequented for its regularity and accessibility.

Plage des Grenettes

Can you tell me about the naturist beach in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré?

While Sainte-Marie-de-Ré itself doesn't have an officially designated naturist beach listed in the main tourist information, naturism is commonly practiced on parts of the Île de Ré. Plage des Tonnisses, located further west towards Le Bois-Plage, is known as a naturist-friendly beach. It's best to check local signage and customs.

Are there accommodations with direct beach access in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré?

While direct on-the-sand access is rare, there are several accommodations in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré, including hotels and holiday rentals, located very close to the beaches, often just a short walk away (e.g., 60m or 200m). Some establishments like Hôtel Les Grenettes are situated near Plage des Grenettes.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Plage des Grenettes

What are the beaches in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré like? Are they sandy or rocky?

The beaches in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré, such as Montamer, La Salée, and Les Grenettes, are primarily composed of fine sand. However, the coastline becomes quite rocky at low tide, revealing the foreshore and traditional fish traps (écluses à poissons). So, while sandy at high tide, expect rocks to be visible and present as the tide goes out.

Plage de Montamer

Plage de la Salée

Plage des Grenettes

Is it easy to access the beaches in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré by bike or car? What about parking?

Yes, beaches in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré are generally accessible by bike via the island's extensive network of cycle paths. For cars, there is parking available near some beaches, like Les Grenettes and Plage de Montamer. However, parking can be limited, especially during peak season, so arriving by bike is often recommended.

Plage des Grenettes

Plage de Montamer

Are there any supervised beaches in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré?

Yes, Plage de Montamer in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré is supervised by lifeguards during the main summer season, typically from early July to early September. This makes it a popular choice for families.

Plage de Montamer

People Also Ask

What kind of activities can you do on the beaches in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré besides swimming?

Besides swimming, the beaches offer opportunities for surfing (especially at Les Grenettes), bodyboarding, fishing (including traditional shore fishing or 'pêche à pied' at low tide around the rocky areas and fish traps), picnicking, and simply relaxing. The area is also good for walking and discovering the coastal environment. Some beaches are popular for kite flying.

Plage des Grenettes

Are dogs allowed on the beaches in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré?

Dog access to beaches in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré, like Plage de Montamer and Plage de la Salée, is typically restricted during the main tourist season (usually April 1st to September 30th). They are often allowed from October 1st to March 31st. It's always best to check local signage for the most current regulations.

Plage de Montamer

Plage de la Salée

How do the beaches in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré compare to those in Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré?

Sainte-Marie-de-Ré's beaches are often described as wilder and more natural, with a mix of sandy areas and rocky foreshores at low tide, popular for surfing (Les Grenettes) and a quieter atmosphere. Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré is known for its long, expansive sandy beaches like Plage des Gollandières and Gros Jonc, which are very popular with families and offer more amenities and beach clubs. Swimming is generally easier at Le Bois-Plage due to fewer rocks at low tide.

Beach Gollandières

What is the water quality like for swimming at Sainte-Marie-de-Ré beaches?

The water quality at Sainte-Marie-de-Ré beaches is regularly monitored, especially at supervised beaches like Montamer during the season. Official classifications are usually available from the Mairie (town hall) or tourist office, and generally, the waters around Île de Ré are known for being clean.

Plage de Montamer

Are there any 'hidden gem' or quieter beaches in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré?

Plage de la Salée and Plage de la Basse Benaie are often mentioned as more confidential or quieter beaches in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré. They tend to have their loyal followers and offer a more tranquil experience, especially compared to the larger, more frequented beaches on the island. They retain a wilder charm.

Plage de la Salée

Plage de la Basse Benaie

What should I be aware of regarding the 'écluses à poissons' (fish traps) on Sainte-Marie-de-Ré beaches?

The 'écluses à poissons' are traditional stone fish traps visible at low tide. While fascinating to see and explore for shore fishing, be cautious when walking around them as the rocks can be slippery and sharp. They also indicate areas that become very rocky as the tide recedes.

Is Sainte-Marie-de-Ré a good destination if my main holiday focus is beaches and swimming?

Sainte-Marie-de-Ré offers a more natural and sometimes wilder beach experience, great for those who enjoy surfing, shore fishing, and a less crowded atmosphere. Swimming is good, especially at Plage de Montamer at high tide. However, if you're looking for vast, easily swimmable sandy beaches at all tides with many amenities, other villages on Île de Ré like Le Bois-Plage might be more suitable. It depends on your preference for a quieter, more rugged coastal experience versus classic sandy beach resort vibes.

Plage de Montamer