Between beach and pine forest, Lacanau attracts thousands of visitors every year. And with good reason! Between surfing, sunbathing and strolling among the pines, the program promises to be both relaxing and full of surprises. From Lac de Lacanau to the ocean, there's plenty to keep you busy on your Gironde vacation. Let's discover the 12 best things to do in Lacanau with your family.
1. The Etang de Cousseau nature reserve, preserving biodiversity
Get ready for total immersion in the surrounding nature. When you visit the Etang de Cousseau nature reserve, you'll discover an unspoilt environment where flora and fauna flourish. Along the 8 km of nature trails, accessible on your own or with a guide, you'll discover numerous species of protected birds. Between primary forest and dunes, the landscapes evolve with nature, immersing visitors in an enchanting and relaxing setting. In addition to birds, deer and roe deer can be spotted among the pines and oaks. The walk is idyllic, inviting you to disconnect from the modern world and connect with unspoilt nature.
2. Enjoy Lacanau's beautiful beaches
Bordered by pine forests, Lacanau's beaches offer a relaxing setting for a weekend or a few days' vacation in Gironde. Whether you're looking to polish up your tan or go surfing, each beach has its own special audience:
- Plage de l'Écureuil, or Plage du Sud: a beautiful beach with lifeguard surveillance in summer, located near the Rainbow Café and Club Mickey. The latter is ideal if you're going on vacation with children!
- Plage Centrale: certainly the most crowded in season, but also the closest to amenities. Accessible to people with reduced mobility, it has a major advantage: nearby parking.
- Jah Point beach: a beautiful wild beach (unsupervised), loved by locals and surfers alike.
- Super Nord beach: set back a little from the city, this beach offers a peaceful setting for relaxing moments (it's also popular with nudists!).
- Super Sud beach: accessible by bike or on foot, this is the place to be for water sports enthusiasts.
Splash, splash: all that's left to do is make your choice!
3. Golf, the ultimate pastime in Lacanau
Whether you're an avid golfer or just want to try your hand at it, Lacanau is the ideal place to test out a variety of greens. The town boasts three golf courses with different characteristics. For connoisseurs, head for the Bluegreen Golf de la Méjane, with its 9-hole course surrounded by pine trees. The 3200 m² course is surrounded by water hazards and bunkers to test your technique.
UCPA Golf du Baganais offers mini-golf for beginners and a 9-hole undulating course. It's the ideal choice if you're not an experienced golfer, but rather an amateur looking for a fun vacation pastime. For the full experience, choose the Garden Golf at Lacanau Océan, with its 9- and 18-hole courses, Club House and restaurant to relax in after the game. What more could you ask for?
4. Wild evenings at the Casino de Lacanau
The Casino de Lacanau is the place to be if you want to go out and party. The Win Restaurant, for example, organizes concerts every Saturday, offering a pleasant interlude during your stay. Themed evenings are also regularly organized at this top Lacanau restaurant. In this vibrantly festive venue, where shows are a regular feature, the program changes frequently, so don't hesitate to check it out during your stay!
5. Relaxation on Lacanau lake
Two rooms, two atmospheres! A different kind of beach awaits you at Lac de Lacanau, pulsating with swimming and water sports activities for young and old alike. The big advantage: swimming without the force of the Atlantic waves. That's why many families looking for a more leisurely swim like to take refuge here. Children also enjoy pedal-boat outings on the lake, for a risk-free change of scenery. In a more sporting style, you can go sailing, canoeing, kitesurfing or stand-up paddling.
Why not take advantage of your day at the lake to explore the surrounding area? Banana Surf School takes you on a trip along the Canal des Etangs.
6. Aqualidays, the water park for families
Looking for a place to take a family vacation without leaving France? Lacanau is the perfect destination, with its many child-friendly facilities. The Aqualidays water park is just one of the many places of interest popular with families. Forget the strict confines of the pool! Here, the atmosphere is one of relaxation. Swimming pool, wave lagoon, wild river, bubble bath and other slides nestle in the heart of lush vegetation. A simply splendid setting for a wonderful family day out.
Good to know: a paddling pool has been set up for the little ones, who also deserve their own special moment of leisure.
7. Learn to surf the Atlantic waves
Renowned for its waves and beautiful sandy beaches, the seaside resort of Lacanau is world-famous for its surf spots. Every year in August, the best surfers compete in the Caraïbos Lacanau Pro, with live entertainment and concerts. Want to learn to surf? Start by checking the tide times online or at the Tourist Office. For novice (but motivated!) surfers, there are numerous surf schools to choose from, including Tengo Frio and Surf Magic School. Children can learn to surf at their own level at Pirate Surfing.
8. Lacanau's pine forest, full of outdoor activities
The Landes region is famous for its acres of pine forests, also found in this part of the Gironde. Treat yourself to a few hours of total disconnection in the Lacanau pine forest, offering a wealth of opportunities. Do you like walking? Take to the little paths winding through the pines! For cyclists, the flat, easily accessible paths are also a delight, even for children. Why not explore the pine forest at a walk, trot or gallop? On horseback, it's an even greater adventure!
Good to know: in the heart of the pine forest, put down your bags at Les Jardins du Littoral campsite, for a relaxing stay with a 100% change of scenery.
9. Stroll through the Lacanau-Océan market
Here's an original market that changes with the seasons! In winter, the Lacanau market takes over the Place du Mail on Wednesdays. In summer, it moves closer to the beach, on avenue de l'Adjudant Guittard. The stalls come alive with colorful fruits and vegetables, local produce and stalls selling clothes, souvenirs and other little treasures. It's a place where you can take your time and enjoy a leisurely stroll in an enchanting setting. That's what vacations are all about!
Click here to discover all Lacanau's summer markets and craft fairs.
10. Paintball and fun family activities
Want to have some fun with your teens, your kids, as a couple or with friends? Yep, there's something for all ages and tastes at Les 3 Bandits, Lacanau's multi-activity park. Some activities are accessible to children aged 3 and over, offering a wide choice of leisure activities of all kinds. For an unusual activity in Lacanau, treat yourself to a game of laser-game in the forest? It's possible! Paintball, whether in a duel or in a group, also offers great fun.
We also invite you to discover theArchery game, an original activity that is beginning to make a name for itself in France. From sumo wrestling to pedal go-karts and bubble soccer, there's plenty more to discover in this park designed for the pleasure of the whole family.
11. Cycling, a peaceful way to discover Lacanau
Get on your mountain bike, after a quick trip to the bike hire shop if you don't have your own, and set off to discover Lacanau on its beautiful cycle paths. To the sound of crickets, you'll cross dunes and pine forests in complete peace and quiet. You can also discover Lacanau-Ville on two wheels, especially the Moutchic district and its astonishing local houses. From here, head for the lake for a dip or a water activity. A beautiful view awaits you on the way!
Did you know? Lacanau is home to the Vélodyssée trail, ideal for cycling enthusiasts, with its varied landscapes of dunes and forests.
12. Ecopark Adventures, a day of tree climbing for the whole family
Lacanau is definitely an ideal destination for vacations with children in France. Just a stone's throw from the lake, head toEcopark Adventures for a day... completely high up! Ten accrobranch courses are on offer, some of which are accessible from the age of 4. To complete the picture, various workshops and numerous zip lines litter your route, offering a full day's activities for families.
Useful practical information :
- Gloves must be worn.
- The park is accessible to people with reduced mobility.
- Closed shoes are mandatory.
Finally, if you want to be sure of getting in at the height of summer, don't hesitate to book online before you come.
Where to stay in Lacanau?
Lacanau, a pretty destination in south-west France, invites you to let go for a weekend or a week's vacation. Whether camping, staying in a hotel or a gîte, choose the option that suits you best. Here's a small selection of three hotels to get you started..
- The best view
Lake view or forest view? Both are possible! The hotel-restaurant Le Moutchico welcomes you in a simple but friendly atmosphere. The well-insulated rooms offer a peaceful place to recharge your batteries during the vacations. Book your stay here for this conveniently located Lacanau establishment.
- Top of the range
Le Petit Coin de Paradis lives up to its name! The decor, composed of wood, bamboo and other vegetation, creates an enchanting setting for you to set down your suitcases in Lacanau. Private spas and a host of thoughtful touches make this Lacanau establishment a veritable little paradise on earth, which you can book here.
- The quietest
Situated in the heart of the pine forest,Hotel La Varangue offers a calm environment conducive to rejuvenation. From the tropical garden to the freshly prepared breakfast and the exotic decor, everything about this beautiful establishment is a pleasure, click here to book.
What to do in Lacanau in winter
You don't have to visit Lacanau in winter! In fact, the Gironde is an ideal place to go in January, February or even Christmas, without the risk of getting bored. What could be more pleasant than contemplating the immensity of the ocean in all its winter tranquillity? A walk along the coast offers a 100% soothing moment, which can be extended in the pine forest. The winter chill doesn't stop you from visiting the Étang de Cousseau nature reserve, or even going sand yachting!
Even more original, we invite you to book a microlight flight. From up there, you'll be able to admire the coastline and surrounding area in all its splendor. As a couple or as a family, you can also explore the pine forest on horsebackin winter. Dressed warmly, this outing is a real pleasure.
Couples will appreciate the Vitalparc spa , a great address for a Valentine's weekend getaway. From the bubble bath to the cocooning treatments, everything is designed to warm body and soul in the middle of winter.
Why not round off your day at the Lacanau casino? The casino's restaurant and entertainment offer the perfect setting for a winter's chill!
What to do in Lacanau when it rains?
Once again, the Casino de Lac anau's many events are open to you even when it's raining. Bad weather is also an ideal opportunity to do a little shopping. You'll have to put your hood back on between two boutiques selling souvenirs and local produce, but the rest of the time, you can stroll between the shelves without getting wet. The multi-leisure park Les 3 Bandits also welcomes you for numerous indoor activities, such as laser tag, to name but a few. The Cinéma L'Escoure also opens its doors to you, so you can relax for a few hours in front of a film while you wait for the return of a little sunshine.
Good news for families with children: the Aqualidays aquatic complex is partially closed! Although you won't be able to enjoy the outdoor slides, you will have access to a beautiful indoor area with games, counter-current and other fun activities, all nestled in a superb plant setting.
From entertainment and shows during the day to brass bands and summer fireworks in the evening, Lacanau's energy is contagious. Don't hesitate to consult the events calendar at the Tourist Office to make sure you don't miss a thing during your stay in Lacanau. Want to see more? We understand! Continue your escapade by discovering the 17 most beautiful places to visit in Gironde- you won't regret it! Better still, these 15 must-sees in New Aquitaine are perfect for adventurers away for at least two weeks and road trip enthusiasts.
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