Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France

Vaux-sur-Mer Beaches

Overview

Vaux-sur-Mer, nestled in France's Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, offers a delightful seaside escape. This destination is known for its relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere and a 'village spirit' that provides a calmer alternative to larger nearby resorts. Its coastline is characterized by a series of charming coves, locally called 'conches', which feature fine sand bordered by picturesque limestone cliffs, appealing to visitors seeking natural beauty and a serene environment.

The town boasts several distinct beaches, each with its own character. Plage de Nauzan is the largest and most animated, making it ideal for families with its wide range of activities and promenade. For a more tranquil experience, the scenic Plage du Conseil offers a peaceful cove with lovely views, including glimpses of the Cordouan lighthouse. Nearby in Royan, Plage de Pontaillac draws crowds with its vibrant surf scene and lively atmosphere, complete with a casino. History enthusiasts can appreciate Plage de Saint-Sordelin, a pretty, sheltered beach notable for the historical remnants of medieval fish reservoirs embedded in its cliffs.

Beyond these key spots, Vaux-sur-Mer has other coves to discover, such as the small and quiet Plage de Gilet, which can be entirely covered at high tide. The scenic Sentier des Douaniers, or customs path, links these beautiful beaches, inviting visitors to enjoy leisurely walks with stunning coastal vistas. Whether you are looking for a bustling family beach or a secluded spot for quiet contemplation, our comprehensive guide details a longer list of beaches to help you find your perfect seaside experience in Vaux-sur-Mer.

FAQ

What are the main beaches in Vaux-sur-Mer and what are they like?

Vaux-sur-Mer has four main beaches, known locally as 'conches' (coves): Plage de Nauzan (the largest, shared with Saint-Palais-sur-Mer), Plage du Conseil, Plage de Saint-Sordelin, and Plage de Gilet (the smallest). These beaches are characterized by fine sand and are nestled between limestone cliffs. Nauzan is the most equipped and liveliest, while the others offer a more tranquil environment.

Is Vaux-sur-Mer a good destination for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Vaux-sur-Mer is considered a good destination for a family beach holiday. Plage de Nauzan, in particular, is ideal for families, offering supervised swimming in summer, a promenade with shops and restaurants, and various activities. The town itself has a calm, family-friendly atmosphere.

Can you swim at the beaches in Vaux-sur-Mer and what is the water like?

Yes, you can swim at the beaches in Vaux-sur-Mer. Plage de Nauzan is supervised in summer, and Plage du Conseil is also known for good swimming conditions with gentle waves and clear waters. Water temperatures are generally suitable for comfortable swimming from July to September. The water quality at Nauzan beach has been rated as good.

When is the best time of year to visit Vaux-sur-Mer for a beach holiday?

The best time for a beach holiday in Vaux-sur-Mer is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the water temperature is ideal for swimming. Mid-July to late August is particularly favored for hot-weather activities.

Are there accommodations with direct beach access or close to the beaches in Vaux-sur-Mer?

Yes, there are accommodation options near the beaches. For example, Hôtel Résidence de Rohan offers direct beach access. B&B HOTEL Royan La Palmyre is close to the beaches. Camping Nauzan Plage is within walking distance of Plage de Nauzan. Many holiday rentals are also available in the coastal part of Vaux-sur-Mer.

Are dogs allowed on the beaches in Vaux-sur-Mer?

Dog access to beaches in Vaux-sur-Mer is generally restricted, especially during the peak season. On Plage de Nauzan, animals are not accepted from April 1 to September 30. Some sources indicate dogs are forbidden year-round on Vaux-sur-Mer beaches, while others suggest an allowance from October 1st to March 31st after local discussions. It's best to check the current municipal regulations displayed at beach entrances.

What facilities are available at Plage de Nauzan?

Plage de Nauzan is the largest and most equipped beach in Vaux-sur-Mer. It features a paved promenade with shops and restaurants, restrooms, showers, and picnic areas. It offers supervised swimming in summer, disabled access with ramps and beach wheelchairs, and a sailing school. There are also night markets and musical events in the summer.

How do the beaches in Vaux-sur-Mer compare to those in Royan or Saint-Palais-sur-Mer?

Vaux-sur-Mer's beaches are generally smaller coves ('conches') offering a mix of lively (Nauzan) and tranquil (Conseil, Saint-Sordelin) experiences. Royan, its southern neighbor, boasts the large, urban Plage de la Grande Conche and the popular Plage de Pontaillac (partially shared with Vaux-sur-Mer), known for its surf. Saint-Palais-sur-Mer, to the north, shares Plage de Nauzan with Vaux and has other family-friendly beaches like Plage du Bureau. Vaux-sur-Mer offers a more intimate scale compared to the larger resort town of Royan.

People Also Ask

Is parking available near the beaches in Vaux-sur-Mer, and is it free?

Parking is available near the beaches, but it can be challenging, especially at smaller coves like Plage du Conseil. Plage de Nauzan has both free and paid parking options nearby, including street parking and dedicated lots. Plage du Conseil also has some paid parking, though spaces are limited.

Are there any quieter or more secluded beaches in Vaux-sur-Mer?

Yes, Plage du Conseil and Plage de Saint-Sordelin are smaller 'conches' known for being quieter and offering a more tranquil atmosphere compared to the main Plage de Nauzan. Plage de Gilet is the smallest and can be very quiet, though it can be fully submerged at high tide. These beaches generally have fewer amenities.

What kind of activities can you do at Vaux-sur-Mer beaches besides swimming and sunbathing?

Besides swimming and sunbathing, activities include sailing (especially at Nauzan, which has a sailing school), paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing. The Sentier des Douaniers (Customs Path) runs along the coast, offering scenic walks and access to the different coves. Plage de Nauzan also hosts night markets and musical events in the summer. Some beaches are suitable for surfing or bodyboarding depending on conditions.

How do you get to the beaches in Vaux-sur-Mer, especially the smaller coves?

The main Plage de Nauzan is easily accessible by car and is served by local transport. The smaller coves like Plage du Conseil, Saint-Sordelin, and Gilet can be reached by car (though parking can be difficult), by bicycle via coastal cycle paths (including the Vélodyssée), or on foot via the Sentier des Douaniers (Customs Path) that connects the beaches.

What is the 'Sentier des Douaniers' and how does it relate to the beaches?

The Sentier des Douaniers (Customs Path) is a coastal footpath that winds along the cliffs and coves of Vaux-sur-Mer. It connects the various beaches, including Plage de Nauzan, Plage du Conseil, Plage de Saint-Sordelin, and Plage de Gilet, offering scenic views and a way to explore the coastline on foot.

Are there any specific rules or things to be aware of at Vaux-sur-Mer beaches (e.g., tides, safety)?

Plage de Nauzan is supervised in summer. Some smaller beaches like Plage de Gilet can be completely covered at high tide, so it's important to be aware of tide times. Dog access is restricted, particularly in summer. Barbecues and open fires are generally prohibited on beaches. It's always advisable to check local signage for current regulations.

What is the general vibe of Vaux-sur-Mer as a beach destination?

Vaux-sur-Mer offers a relaxed, family-friendly seaside resort atmosphere with a 'village spirit'. It's generally calmer than its larger neighbor Royan, providing a blend of natural beauty with its coves and cliffs, and convenient amenities, especially around Plage de Nauzan. It's appreciated for its human scale and opportunities for walking and cycling.

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Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Vaux-sur-Mer: Weather Today

📅 Saturday, July 26, 2025
Today looks like an average beach day in Vaux-sur-Mer. The maximum air temperature will be 24.5 °C, perfect for enjoying the beach. The sea temperature is a comfortable 23.8 °C, ideal for swimming. There's very little chance of rain, and with only some clouds, you can expect plenty of sunshine. The UV index will reach 7.4, so make sure to apply sunscreen. Expect moderate winds and stronger gusts, which might be a bit breezy at times. The waves will be gentle, making for a relaxing day by the sea.
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Air

Low / High17.2°C/24.5°C
Feels Like (High)24.5°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature23.8 °C
Wave Height0.6 m
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Rain

Rain Chance0%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset06:41/21:40
Sunshine Hours13.0 hrs
UV Index7.4
Cloud Cover21%
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Wind

Speed20.5 km/h
Gusts38.5 km/h
DirectionNW

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