Halfway between the Gironde estuary and the Bassin d'Arcachon, Lacanau is famous for its waves and surf spots! Here, on foot or by bike, the official outfit is the neoprene suit! However, nearby, local surfers do not disdain the fresh and peaceful water of the lake. They enjoy the beautiful nautical facilities in the heart of a preserved nature.
Surf and lake, two mixed atmospheres
In Lacanau, most of the vehicles carry boards and the schedules of many stores are subject to the quality of the waves! This way of living in harmony with nature is also sensitive inland, under the pine trees which border the lake. This is what makes Lacanau so endearing but also so varied! Sand and pinewoods, waves and reeds, surfing and pedal boats, sport and relaxation. The contrast is only apparent and one goes without transition from one pole to another, from one atmosphere to another. Here, there is no sliding on one side and idleness on the other, but a land of plenty that knows how to offer all this to those who set their own pace.
For small drafts
Entirely lined with pine trees and reeds, Lacanau Lake is about 7 kilometers long and 3 kilometers wide. There is no road or path that goes all the way around the lake and only the northwestern shore of the lake is accessible by land. The shores form beautiful beaches spaced with reedbeds that cover the shallower areas. The water is clear but tinged with reddish ochre. The average depth is officially 2.60 m, but in reality, one can only navigate comfortably with a draft of less than one meter.
A space for every use
The eastern shore is overflowed with shoals while the western one is cut by very beautiful coves. A nautical stop equipped with pontoons offers all facilities near Lacanau-ville. Towards the north, a zone is reserved for kite-surfing. It is cut by a channel that leads to the superb aquatic maze of Talaris. A site to discover, even if the port and the marina facilities are reserved for the co-owners of the private residence.
Lively, but natural!
The beautiful beach of Moutchic concentrates most of the nautical activities, while the whole western shore is cut by creeks and coves all the more paradisiacal as they are sheltered from the dominant winds by the pine forest. Even if the lake is undoubtedly a tourist site, the lakeside hamlets are not overrated. They are made up of small houses with discreet charm. Alleys lead to the shores of the lake, which are most often easily accessible to walkers and boaters. There are no rows of campsites or residences blocking or swamping the access to the water.
To enjoy all the pleasures of water
Water yoga, swimming with fins, initiation to paddle or wake-board, everything is possible here! At La Grande Escourre, the VLG club allows you to rent a sailboat or to learn new ways of flying on the water like wing-foil. You can also come with your own transportable boat that you will put in the water on one of the 4 available holds. An open boat, a sport catamaran or a sail-oar will find a superb playground there.
Wild anchorages
Along the road that borders the western shore, the pine forest hides several campsites, then bays with tiny beaches that deliciously evoke those of the Caribbean islands. On this shore, the evenings are bathed in a magical light. The beaches are lined with reed beds. La grande Escourre and Longarisse are the most beautiful anchorages of the lake and the point of Bernos, only accessible on foot or by boat, offers a superb point of view on the Ile aux Oiseaux.
Sailing on the lake
The lake depends on the commune of Lacanau. Only the day navigation is authorized and the parking can be done only on authorization and in the materialized zones. The night stay on board of the boats is forbidden. With the exception of the ski and wake board areas and the 300 meters strip, the speed is limited to 10 km/h and the practice of jet-ski is forbidden. The nautical brigade is in charge of the organization of the navigation but also of the collection of the communal fee attested by a sticker. This fee is only due for boats with internal combustion engines or habitable boats. During the season, there is a permanent staff for one hour a day at the Moutchic beach.
The good plans of the locals
there are some very nice vacation rentals and campsites to stay at. One of our favorites, the Slow village, occupies 64 hectares of pine forest on the tip of Tedey.
Franck Hele organizes aperitif outings aboard Robinson's pinnace, often at sunset. Let him tell you about his lake, you won't regret it!
euros approaching Lacanau Océan, in Le Huga, we will stop for a tasting at La Canaulaise, a craft brewery where Céline Anderson produces a whole range of light and delicious beers.
The small marina is well equipped and has a nice slipway.
