Atlantic Beaches

One of the great advantages of staying at Camping Chez Philipaud is that you can enjoy peaceful countryside camping while still having easy access to the Atlantic coast. From traditional seaside resorts to dramatic dunes and estuary villages, there are several beautiful coastal destinations within reach for a full-day trip.

Royan (1hour, 20 minutes): Royan is a lively coastal town known for its broad sandy beaches and traditional seaside charm.

  • Large family beaches

  • Seafront restaurants and seafood

  • Harbour area and ferry access across the Gironde Estuary

  • Bustling summer atmosphere

Meschers-sur-Gironde 1 hour, 10 minutes): offers a slightly different coastal experience to Royan and Saint-Palais-sur-Mer. Located on the Gironde Estuary, it combines small sandy beaches with dramatic limestone cliffs and historic cave dwellings.

The beaches at Meschers are generally smaller and more intimate than the wide Atlantic stretches further north. Meschers is particularly known for the troglodyte cave dwellings carved into the cliffs, including the well-known Grottes de Régulus. These caves were historically used as homes and refuges and now form a fascinating visitor attraction overlooking the estuary. The views across the Gironde are impressive and very photogenic.

St Palais sur Mer (1 hour, 20 minutes): A relaxed and attractive seaside resort just north of Royan, Saint-Palais-sur-Mer offers wide sandy beaches, coastal scenery and a friendly holiday atmosphere.

  • Plage du Bureau – central, family-friendly and close to cafés

  • Grande Côte – a long open Atlantic beach with plenty of space

  • Coastal walking paths with beautiful ocean views

  • Summer markets and evening seaside atmosphere

Plage de Saint-Georges-de-Didonne (1 hour, 20 minutes): A Spacious Estuary Beach, just south of Royan, this long sandy beach offers plenty of space and a relaxed feel.

  • Wide, gently sloping shoreline

  • Often calmer waters

  • Seafront promenade with cafés

  • Easy parking and family-friendly atmosphere

Arcachon Bay & Arcachon (1 hour, 30 minutes): For guests wanting something truly memorable, the Arcachon area offers some of the most impressive coastal scenery in south-west France. Climb the dune for breathtaking views over the Atlantic Ocean and pine forests.

  • Calm sandy beaches along the bay

  • Ocean-facing Atlantic beaches

  • Oyster villages serving fresh seafood

  • Access to the famous Dune du Pilat – the tallest sand dune in Europe

Talmont-sur-Gironde (Just over an hour): Although not a traditional beach resort, Talmont-sur-Gironde offers beautiful estuary views and makes a wonderful coastal stop.

  • One of France’s “Plus Beaux Villages”

  • White stone houses and hollyhocks

  • Romanesque church overlooking the Gironde

  • Artisan shops and summer atmosphere

A lovely cultural addition to a coastal day out.