La Baule Beach: reviews and practical tips

+23
recos
3.7/5 6 reviews
Boulevard de l'Océan, 44500 La Baule-Escoublac, France
Boulevard de l'Océan, 44500 La Baule-Escoublac, France
Plage de La Baule

One of the largest sand beaches in Europe

Located in western France on the Atlantic coast, the famous La Baule Beach stretches for 9 km (about 5.6 miles) in a sweeping arc of fine sand. It is frequently cited as one of the most beautiful shorelines in Europe.

A success story starting in the 19th century

Although the resort town was developed at the end of the 19th century as the final addition to the Guérande peninsula, it quickly cultivated a reputation for chic, relaxed elegance defined by its eclectic villa architecture.

Spanning from the pointe du Bec (Bec Point) to the pointe de Penchâteau (Penchâteau Point), the beach is shared between the towns of Pornichet and Le Pouliguen. A mild microclimate and the arrival of the railway helped it grow into a destination for royalty and celebrities, giving it an international profile. The beach was once known for its charming wooden chalets, which were later replaced by luxury hotels.

Water sports and beyond

Sheltered by an expansive pine forest, the beach sits between the sea and the countryside, offering ocean views throughout the year. Water sports are well established here, including local favorites like foil surfing, where boards equipped with hydrofoils allow riders to lift above the water for speed and thrills. For lower-impact activities, you can go cycling or take horseback rides along the extensive network of equestrian trails. When you need a snack, try a niniche (a traditional local lollipop), a fondant baulois (a rich chocolate cake), or a savory Breton galette.

Because the coastline is a major draw, the beach is maintained with an ingenious drainage system to prevent erosion. Beneath the feet of beachgoers, a massive tank collects and drains sediment to keep it dry. The water processed by this system is then used to heat the municipal swimming pool.

Reviews of La Baule Beach

Add my review
Summary of 6 reviews
3.7/5
Average rating
+23
Total recommendations

Ratings by visit type

With family
3.8
As a couple
2.7
With friends
3.8

Avygeo ranking

#112
in the world
#105
in Europe
#58
in France
#1
in La Baule-Escoublac

A beach that doesn't live up to the hype

This beach really doesn't live up to the hype when you look at all the 1960s apartment buildings lining it. Not to mention the constant construction and the view of the wind farms in the distance. Nevertheless, the promenade lets you walk for a long distance, and it is perfect for rollerblading or just strolling around while enjoying a good ice cream from La Fraiseraie!

0
Does not recommend :
Overall rating :
With family :
As a couple :
With friends :

A perfect setting

The beaches of La Baule are simply magnificent, with their fine sand and vast stretches that invite you to relax.
Whether for a walk, a run, or just to soak up the sun, it is a real pleasure.
The atmosphere is pleasant and friendly, and the seascapes offer a perfect setting to recharge in front of the ocean.

0
Recommends :
Overall rating :
With family :
As a couple :
With friends :

Big beach surrounded by buildings

It is definitely not a wild beach, but having such a vast stretch of sand in the city remains pleasant.
Way too crowded in the summer.

0
Recommends :
Overall rating :
With family :
As a couple :
With friends :

Nice beach, but overcrowded in the summer

Almost dead in the off-season, La Baule beach is taken by storm in the summer by second-home owners and tourists. Sure, the massive beach with its clear water and fine sand is attractive from a distance, but sometimes it is really hard to find a spot to put your towel down when the ocean view is not blocked right in front of you by a bunch of umbrellas. To avoid the crowds a bit, head closer to the Casino, it is a little less busy.

As for beach activities, La Baule does not offer much. If you want to go jet-skiing or parasailing, you are better off staying in Pornichet.

0
Recommends :
Overall rating :
With family :
As a couple :
With friends :

Big and lively but way too much concrete

La Baule, one of the biggest sandy beaches in Europe. For sunbathing, maybe taking a dip, and going out at night, this beach does the job.
Now, if you want to relax quietly by the seaside, the beach isn't wild enough for my taste. Too many people, too many cars, too many buildings, too much concrete.

0
Recommends :
Overall rating :
With family :
As a couple :
With friends :

Great sandy beach

Look, you have to like crowds and concrete, but La Baule beach, which is advertised as the biggest in Europe (is that even true?), is pretty nice. The whole town is nice, by the way, for a short summer getaway.

0
Recommends :
Overall rating :
With family :
As a couple :
With friends :

These pages may interest you

Top most beautiful beaches in France Top most beautiful beaches in Europe Top most beautiful beaches in the world