The beaches of Vendée
The Most Beautiful Beaches in Vendée
Looking for fresh sea air, swimming spots and postcard-perfect views? Vendée is an ideal playground: long stretches of fine sandy beach, rolling dunes, pine forests and wilder, more hidden coves. From Oasis Les Jardins, it’s easy to explore the Vendée coast for a day out with family, as a couple or with friends. Below is our selection of the best beaches in Vendée to discover during your stay, with atmosphere ideas and practical local tips.
#1 – Grande Plage, Les Sables-d’Olonne
A must-see during your stay at Oasis Les Jardins, this wide fine sandy beach along the seafront promenade (Le Remblai) is perfect for a stress-free beach day, even with toddlers. The waves are often gentle, and in summer several lifeguard stations provide supervision. It’s also ideal if you like mixing beach time with city vibes: Les Sables-d’Olonne town centre is just a few minutes’ walk away.
Best spot: La Pendule
Ideal for: families, couple walks, sunset drinks with friends
Where? Les Sables-d’Olonne — Grande Plage, about 5 km from Oasis Les Jardins (easy bike access). Town centre reachable on foot from the beach.
#2 – Tanchet Beach, Les Sables-d’Olonne
Tanchet Beach is loved for its lively atmosphere and charming beach huts. In summer, a lifeguard station makes swimming safer and more relaxed. It’s also a popular spot for its consistent waves—great for learning to surf or enjoying a session. During peak season, it can feel easier and less “central” than Grande Plage while remaining very convenient. Best of all, it’s only 2 km from Oasis Les Jardins, easy to reach by bike for a hassle-free beach trip (no parking stress).
Ideal for: families, beginner & experienced surfers, couples at sunset
Where? Les Sables-d’Olonne — Tanchet Beach, about 2 km from Oasis Les Jardins (easy bike access).
#3 – Veillon Beach (Talmont-Saint-Hilaire): lagoon & nature
A dramatic setting between the ocean and the estuary, with a truly natural feel. Le Veillon is known for its biodiversity (a Natura 2000 area), and the beach holds the Blue Flag label. Perfect if you love wild landscapes, photography and scenic walks.
Ideal for: couples (photo spot), families (wide open space), nature lovers
Good to know: dogs are not allowed on the beach from 1 April to 15 October.
#4 – Plage des Conches (Longeville-sur-Mer): dunes & forest
A “big ocean” atmosphere and total change of scenery: impressive dunes and a vast coastal forest. It’s also a favourite with wave lovers (and spectators!).
Ideal for: friends (ocean & surf vibe), families (open spaces), seaside walks
Good to know: supervised in season, less suitable for swimming with young children.
#5 – Sauveterre Beach, Les Sables-d’Olonne
Sauveterre Beach stands out for its wilder, more natural setting between dunes and forest. Spacious and breezy, it’s ideal for anyone who loves wide open beaches. It’s also a popular surf spot in Vendée, with regular waves depending on conditions. Access is easy thanks to several car parks and the cycle path, and a lifeguard station is in place during the summer season (dates may vary each year).
Good to know: dogs are allowed year-round if kept on a lead. Restrictions may apply in the supervised bathing area (and/or at certain times in summer), so check local signs on arrival.










Practical tips for enjoying Vendée’s beaches
- Tides in Vendée: the coastline changes throughout the day. Always check tide times before rock pooling / shellfish foraging (pêche à pied) or setting off on a long beach walk.
- Lifeguarded beaches: in summer, choose lifeguarded beaches for safer swimming. Check details with the town hall or the local tourist office.
- Best times to go: for quieter beaches (especially in July–August), aim for early morning or late afternoon.

More activities:
The beaches
Trans-European cycling paths
Horse riding in the Vendée
Jet Explorer
Water sports






