Lacanau Ocean
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Lacanau Beach - by Valentin Wechsler on Unsplash
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.
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
av. transport time:1h 15m
est. visit time:3h 30m
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightNo
Night – aft. midnightNo