It's difficult to choose which must-sees to experience during your vacation.
There are 1001 ways to discover the Arcachon Bay, and here is a selection of the 12 essentials things to do..
The Dune of Pilat
Certainly the most famous sand dune in the world, you have to climb to its summit in order to realize its grandeur! A place to discover differently in each season.
The stilt cabins of the Île aux Oiseaux (Bird Island)
Some people have eyes only for them, and you will understand why when discovering the famous and must-see stilt cabins on l’Ile aux Oiseaux (Bird Island). Visit them with a sea kayak to get as close as possible or discover them on a boat excursion.
The Winter Town
In a poetic manner, the neighbourhoods of Arcachon are split up according to the seasons. In the Winter Town, the maze-like alleys take you on a journey to discover the beautiful houses and villas from the 19th century.
The Lighthouse and the Tip of Cap Ferret
Here are two mythical and essential places to better understand the geography of the Arcachon Bay. First, visit the top of the Lighthouse before heading to the tip of Cap Ferret and observing where the ocean water meets the water of the Arcachon Bay. of the Lighthouse, before going to La Pointe and observing the meeting between the water of the ocean and that of the Bassin of Arcachon.
The Arguin Sandbank
How about spending the day on Arguin, in the heart of the Arcachon Bay? Set sail for the Banc d'Arguin National Nature Reserve, one of the natural gems of the Arcachon Bay!
The piers
Highly appreciated by locals and vacationers, the must-visit piers of the Arcachon Bay are a hit! Whether it's summer or winter, take the time to explore them during a stroll and breathe in the salty air of the Bay.
Be tempted by a water activity: canoeing, paddle boarding…
Oysters villages and ports
Gujan-Mestras, Andernos, l'Aiguillon, Cap Ferret, l'Herbe, le Canon, or Biganos, some names might ring a bell for you... All of these places are perfect for taking a stroll, savoring a few oysters, and meeting oyster farmers who will gladly share their passion with you.
Beaches
There are plenty of choices for relaxing on a beach. Discover all of the spots available to you on the Arcachon Bay.
The ornithological reserve of Le Teich
Thousands of wild birds! Some years 300,000 birds can pass through the Teich Bird Reserve on the Arcachon Bay. A bucolic escapade awaits you in the heart of the Ornithological Reserve.
The Domain of Certes and Graveyron
These beautiful wild spots in the heart of the Arcachon Bay can be discovered during a leisurely walks. You can choose from two loops of 5km or 14km, giving you the chance to observe the local nature or take a stroll through the port of Audenge…
The salt meadows of Arès-Lège
After the maritime blue and green if the natural spots, you will discover new contrasts at the Prés Salés (Salt Meadows). In the summer, the place dresses up in ochre tones, giving it a savannah-like appearance. Magical and unique!
Boat excursions
Let yourself be guided as you spend a moment of a true vacation! The sailors will share their stories and anecdotes about the Arcachon Bay. You can also charter boats for private excursions. Whether it’s a simple crossing or a cruise, anything is possible!
The markets of the Bay
Each town has its own market, ambiance, colors and scents… Around the Arcachon Bay, markets are full of life all year round.
