We’ve listed all the beaches in Lacanau for you, from north to south. Some are considered ‘hidden gems’, but please note that not all of these beaches are lifeguard-patrolled, even at the height of the summer season. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming and surfing!
Magic Surf School
The beaches of Lacanau
Plage de l’Alexandre
The northernmost beach in Lacanau, it is virtually untouched and can be reached from a car park situated between the town of Carcans and Lacanau, near the Etang du Cousseau nature reserve. It takes a long 15-minute walk to get there, but it’s well worth the effort!!!
Surfing: a good surfing spot that isn’t very busy. Not recommended for beginners.
Plage Super Nord
The Cantabria, the remains of a Spanish ship that ran aground in 1937, is the symbol of this beach. It’s a beautiful spot that’s not very busy because it’s set back from the road, and many nudists come here to spend the day. This secluded beach is ideal for those looking for some peace and quiet.
Surfing: a great surfing spot with several sandbanks. Suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers.
Plage Nord
Very popular with holidaymakers staying at the Airotel and Les Grands Pins campsites, this beach is ideal for families thanks to its lifeguard-supervised swimming and direct access from the North Beach car park. A daily charge of €3 was introduced by the local council in 2019.
Surfing: A good spot, ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers.
Plage Centrale
Lacanau’s historic beach is extremely busy, and it’s hard to find a spot to lay out your towel. Car parks overlooking the beach allow elderly people and those with reduced mobility to enjoy the view of the ocean waves.
Surfing: Waves are more hollow due to erosion.
Plage Sud
Also known as Ecureuil Beach, this beach is a great spot for families, with lifeguards on duty in July and August. The Rainbow Café sells some really tasty juices. The Mickey Club offers children a fun place to play, with stunning views of the ocean.
Surfing: very popular with the locals; there are some great waves here, but it’s hard to find a spot.
Plage de Jah et de la Sauvageonne
This is our favourite beach, as we hold most of our lessons on these magnificent beaches. Accessible from the Lion car park, which is free of charge, these beaches are perfect for surfing, but there are no lifeguards on duty.
Surfing: tucked away in the forest, these beaches are virtually untouched. Solo surfers love these spots.
Plage Super Sud
Still accessible from Le Lion car park, this lifeguard-patrolled beach is ideal for nature-loving families. A lovely bike ride to the beach is a magical experience. In 2020, dry toilets and a shower were installed there.
Surfing: very popular with the locals; there are some great waves here, but it’s hard to find a spot.
Plage du Pharaon
Popular with surfers looking for some peace and quiet, these beaches at the southern end of Lacanau can be reached from the Lion car park. Enjoy the beach, but take care when swimming as you are some distance from the lifeguard station.
Surfing: great surfing in a peaceful setting. Watch out for the vegetation on the dune.