The most beautiful beaches in Vendée: from wild coves to family resorts and hidden gems
Les Sables-d’Olonne: an iconic seaside resort for all the family
This is the emblematic seaside resort of Vendée. With its vast sandy beach right in the town centre, Les Sables-d’Olonne is an ideal destination for families. The sea is generally calm, beaches are supervised in season, and activities abound: children’s clubs, pedal boat hire, sailing lessons, and leisurely strolls along the seafront promenade. The atmosphere is lively and typically western French. It is also the starting point of the legendary Vendée Globe round-the-world yacht race.
Veillon Beach, Talmont-Saint-Hilaire: a hidden cove for nature lovers
Just a few kilometres south of Les Sables-d’Olonne, Veillon Beach is a true natural gem. Nestled in a sheltered bay between the ocean, the Payré estuary and the forest, it offers a unique landscape on the Atlantic coast. Popular with families, water sports enthusiasts (especially kitesurfers) and walkers alike, this beach boasts golden sand, wild dunes and a wonderfully soothing atmosphere — a little paradise for those who prefer quieter shores.
The beaches of Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez: the perfect balance between nature and activity
Head north along the Vendée coast to Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez, where you’ll find a delightful mix of supervised beaches, wild coves and long stretches of sand ideal for sandcastles or beach volleyball. At the edge of the pine forests, quieter spots such as Plage des Demoiselles coexist with more popular beaches like Les Becs. Easy access and family-friendly facilities make this area particularly appealing for holidays with children.
Île d’Yeu: salty sea air and secret coves
Accessible by boat from Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie or the mainland, Île d’Yeu is a real jewel of the Vendée coast. Here, beaches feel like the end of the world: Petite Conche, Anse des Soux, Plage des Vieilles… Often reached on foot or by bike, they retain a wonderfully wild character. It’s the perfect place to lay down your towel, swim in turquoise waters or enjoy rock pooling with children. The pace of life is peaceful and timeless.
Noirmoutier: between family beaches and protected nature
Another highlight of the Vendée coastline, Noirmoutier is connected to the mainland by the famous Passage du Gois or by bridge. The island is home to superb beaches, including Plage des Dames, lined with charming wooden beach huts and ideal for family holidays, and Plage des Sableaux, wider and more natural. Between swims, explore the Sébastopol Polder nature reserve or wander through the salt marshes.
La Tranche-sur-Mer: a paradise for board sports enthusiasts
On the southern coast, La Tranche-sur-Mer is a favourite destination for surfers, sailors and board sports fans of all kinds. This lively seaside resort offers several supervised beaches, including La Terrière, a vast beach exposed to Atlantic winds. With its surf schools, well-known spots and welcoming family atmosphere, it’s a safe bet for active holidays in a campsite or holiday rental.
More secret spots: Longeville-sur-Mer, Jard-sur-Mer and La Faute-sur-Mer
Less famous than some of the major resorts, these destinations hold wonderful surprises. In Longeville-sur-Mer, forest-backed beaches are calm and inviting. Jard-sur-Mer charms visitors with its small harbour, family-friendly beach and authentic atmosphere. As for La Faute-sur-Mer, it boasts one of the longest beaches in France, bordered by dunes and coastal paths perfect for walks between ocean and nature. These lesser-known spots are ideal for a peaceful day away from the bustle of larger resorts.
Where to stay to enjoy the beaches of Vendée?
To explore all these coastal treasures with your feet in the sand, what could be better than a perfectly located luxury campsite? Just minutes from Les Sables-d’Olonne, Camping Les Castels La Garangeoire welcomes you to the heart of a beautifully preserved natural estate. This 5-star campsite combines comfort, premium services, children’s activities, aquatic areas and quick access to the finest beaches in Vendée. It’s the ideal base for exploring the coastline, from Talmont-Saint-Hilaire to Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez.
Whether you’re a fan of lazy days on the sand, an explorer of wild coves or a water sports enthusiast, Vendée offers beaches to suit every taste. And with a charming campsite nearby, you can truly enjoy a seaside holiday shaped by sunshine, sea breezes and the rhythm of the tides.
