Beaches in Arcachon — 5 of Our Favourites

The promenade that runs along behind the beach is full of shops, bars and restaurants and is close to the town centre, should you need to stretch your legs away from the glorious sunshine.

It's also particularly popular with beach volleyball players, so you shouldn't be bored as you sunbathe with that to watch.

From this beach you can access the Ile aux Ouiseax - Bird Island. So named because it plays host to many sea and migratory birds throughout the year. It's also well known for the huts on stilts that surround its coast line.

Lifeguards are on patrol here from mid June to mid September.

Situated right after the Plage des Abatilles as you travel south down the coast, a very beautiful beach although narrower and steeper than some of the others.

A great beach for families who are keen for a swim or just want to enjoy the sunshine with an ice cream, it's also popular with the young party set of Arcachon and you will often find them gathering here after a big night out.

Once the good weather arrives in the spring this beach starts to become popular with sunbathers trying to grab the first few rays, and it's a great stopping point for walkers who are enjoying the the sights of the oceanic basin.

The waters here are clear blue and the sand very fine and white. Due to the width of the beaches running along the stretch, there is certainly plenty of space for everyone so it should never feel too crowded.

A great beach to enjoy with kids...make sure they have their fishing nets with them as there is an abundance of crabs, muscles and eels to play with.

Perfect for a family day at the beach as there are numerous shaded areas under the pine trees that litter this coastal area, plus some good children's playgrounds.

It's the perfect point for kitesurfing and windsurfing too as it gets a good breeze from the Atlantic coast.

You can enjoy its sports facilities, cycle paths and lawns to relax with your family or friends. Lifeguards from mid June to September, and there are sunshades, beach huts and deckchairs for hire along the strip.