With so many beautiful places to choose from, it’s hard to know where to begin. Fortunately, one destination stands out above the rest. Just a short drive from La Rochelle, the Île de Ré is one of France’s most stunning coastal destinations. Indeed, it offers a remarkable variety of shoreline. Family-friendly beaches with calm, shallow water line the coast. Meanwhile, wild and unspoiled coastline, surfing spots and sheltered coves complete the picture.
Therefore, there’s truly something for everyone here. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed day of swimming or water sports, you won’t be disappointed. Similarly, those simply seeking a good place to unwind will find their perfect spot. That’s why this guide will help you find your ideal destination.
Finally, for everything else to do on the island, take a look at our main article: What to do on the Île de Ré in summer?
The northern beaches — Wild and unspoiled
Head north and the island feels wilder and more remote. Indeed, the landscape changes completely. Bordered by the Bois de Trousse-Chemise pine forest, the Conche des Baleines is the most iconic stretch of coastline on the Île de Ré. It stretches from the Baleines lighthouse all the way to Les Portes-en-Ré.
Facing the open sea, the white sand extends for hundreds of metres. At low tide, long walks with your feet in the water are pure bliss. Meanwhile, the waves make it a great surfing spot too. Furthermore, at sunset, the light over the dunes is simply spectacular. On a clear night, the sky above the dunes is breathtaking. In short, it’s one of those moments you simply don’t forget.
Moreover, the Baleines lighthouse nearby offers a stunning 360-degree view over the entire Atlantic coast. It is therefore well worth combining with a day out here.
Trousse-Chemise
Further west lies the village of Les Portes-en-Ré, one of the most beautiful villages in France. Here, several beaches follow one another in a wild and preserved setting. Indeed, this corner of the island feels truly unspoiled.
The plage de Trousse-Chemise is hidden behind the pine trees. It is a calm and intimate place, perfect for a relaxed day out. At high tide, the incoming water creates a natural current known as le Mao. This phenomenon is particularly popular with swimmers.
After your swim, there is plenty more to discover. A guided tour of the salt marshes with a local salt producer is an absolute must. Moreover, it is a great opportunity to take home some of the famous fleur de sel. In short, it’s the perfect blend of nature, culture and local heritage.
Lizay / Petit Bec
The plage du Lizay draws both surfers and lovers of wide open spaces. Meanwhile, the plage du Petit Bec is known for its good waves facing the open sea. Each beach has its own character and charm.
At low tide, something magical happens. The Banc du Bûcheron sandbank emerges from the water. It forms small natural islands, a true paradise for children and walkers alike.
The central beaches — Family-friendly and lively
Gollandières / Gros-Jonc
In the heart of the island, things are more accessible and more animated. Yet, the area loses none of its charm. Between Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré and La Couarde-sur-Mer stretches a long ribbon of fine sand. Indeed, it ranks among the most beautiful on the French Atlantic coast.
The plage des Gollandières and the plage de Gros-Jonc are both awarded the Blue Flag. Therefore, they are the go-to destinations for surfing, sailing and kitesurfing. Furthermore, their west-facing position generates a consistent and reliable swell. As a result, the waves here are both regular and ideal for all levels.
Moreover, local schools welcome beginners and experienced riders directly on the sand. In short, this stretch of coastline is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts.
Peu-Rajot / Prises / Pergola
The Peu-Ragot is the only supervised beach in La Couarde-sur-Mer. It is therefore one of the best places for families with young children. Indeed, the water is shallow and calm, and the fine sand is perfect for little ones. Furthermore, direct access from the island’s cycle paths makes it a natural stop during a day out on bikes.
Just as pleasant, the plage des Prises offers a quieter setting. It is bordered by the Henri IV forest and its protected dunes. As a result, it is ideal for swimmers looking for space and tranquility.
Meanwhile, the plage de la Pergola, also in La Couarde, is a well-known surfing spot among locals. It is particularly popular when the swell picks up. Further along, the beach at Ars-en-Ré offers something truly unique. On one side lies the open sea. On the other, the stunning salt marshes stretch into the distance. To find your villa in this area: Luxury rental in La Couarde-sur-Mer
The southern beaches — Heritage, fish and fine dining
In the south, the beaches sit alongside some of the most historic villages in Charente-Maritime. Indeed, history and nature come together beautifully here. La Cible in Saint-Martin-de-Ré is unlike any other beach on the island. It sits right at the foot of the 17th-century Vauban ramparts, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In summer, charming white beach huts are available to rent. Moreover, a sailing school is just steps away.
It is therefore the ideal place to combine swimming with a stroll through town. Furthermore, the experience doesn’t end at the beach. After a day on the sand, the port restaurants serve fresh fish, oysters and local wine. The atmosphere is warm and lively, especially on a summer evening.
Indeed, on a summer night, the port of Saint-Martin is one of the most magical places on the island. The lit-up boats and buzzing terraces create an unforgettable atmosphere. In short, it is a place that truly captures the spirit of the Île de Ré.
Arnérault
The plage de l’Arnérault in La Flotte is a beautifully sheltered cove. It lies just a short walk from the village’s fishing port. Indeed, it offers 500 metres of fine sand and supervised swimming in season.
After a morning here, head straight to the port restaurants. They are among the best on the island for fresh fish and oysters straight from the sea. Furthermore, they pair perfectly with a good glass of local wine.
In short, it is a perfect day out for food lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.
Grenettes / Rivedoux
Just after the bridge from La Rochelle lies the town of Rivedoux-Plage. Beyond it, Sainte-Marie-de-Ré welcomes visitors with two wonderful beaches. First, the plage des Grenettes is pleasantly wooded and peaceful. It is therefore perfect for a relaxed and quiet day out.
Meanwhile, the plage Sud de Rivedoux is a well-equipped family beach. It offers stunning views towards the Île d’Aix and is supervised during the season. Indeed, both beaches are ideal for easing into island life on the first day of your stay.
Furthermore, access is easy and straightforward. A lively local market nearby completes the picture perfectly. In short, this is the perfect gentle introduction to the Île de Ré.
Not sure which beach to choose? - summary
- Calm swimming with young children → Peu-Ragot (La Couarde) or Plage Sud de Rivedoux
- Surfing and water sports → Gollandières or Gros-Jonc (Bois-Plage) or Conche des Baleines
- Wild nature and open spaces → Plage du Lizay or Trousse-Chemise (Les Portes-en-Ré)
- Fresh fish, oysters and port atmosphere → L’Arnérault (La Flotte) or La Cible (Saint-Martin)
- Best photography spot → Conche des Baleines at sunset
Bikes included, so you can cycle to your favourite spot every morning.
