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Lacanau Ocean

Boulevard de la Plage, Lacanau, Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Description

Lacanau Ocean is the part of the commune of Lacanau that is alongside the Atlantic Ocean. The other area that includes the main town of Lacanau surrounds the Etang de Lacanau, about 5km inland and 8km south of Lac d'Hourtin with a surface area of 20km². The long stretch of continuous beach is one of the best European surfing destinations and the Lacanau Pro competition held in August is usually part of the World Surf League calendar. It is a very popular destination (for the weekend or as a day trip) for residents of Greater Bordeaux.

Access & Transport

By car it is a 60km straight line on the D1215/D6 from Bordeaux to Lacanau Ocean, going past the town and lake after 50kms.

Instructions & Recommendations

Make sure to bring your beach wear, towels, bio sunblock and sunglasses. Also be aware that the currents can be strong if you plan to swim. For family with younger kids the lake (étang) inland provides a safe swimming alternative.

Meta review

For reviewers, this is the best beach for a day-trip from Bordeaux; it looks good and crowds are not an issue given the amount of space available. The fact that there are lifeguards on duty is also a positive. The main comment of caution relates to the strength of tides and currents.

Environmental & Social

No carbon footprint linked to this activity. Some economic benefits to the local community but increased commercialization also favours wrong incentives and excesses.

Conclusion

Lacanau Ocean is a long and scenic stretch of beach with some of the best surf in France. It is popular in the summer but not the extent that it becomes too crowded and unaffordable. It also has its own charm in the off-season but many stores and restaurants will be closed then.

Key positive

Great surf

Plenty of space for everybody

Key negative

Not recommended for unexperienced swimmers

Nothing else to do besides the beach

Suitability

Suitable for all ages. The beachfront is accessible for visitors with reduced mobility but getting to the central beach itself will require some assistance as there are stairs involved in most places. The south beach is more suitable.

About this Rating

TYPE

Onsite

RESEARCHED IN

May 2024

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit
The beach remains open during the off-season but water is cold and many stores will be closed

av. transport time:1h 15m

est. visit time:3h 30m

Sunlight based

Sunrise / early morningOk

MorningOk

Lunch timeOk

AfternoonOk

Sunset / eveningOk

Night – bef. midnightNo

Night – aft. midnightNo

Pricing
Free

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