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Top things to do in Arcachon

Attractions, tours, and activities in Arcachon

About Arcachon

Including tips for the best time to visit Arcachon

Situated on France’s Atlantic coast, the resort city of Arcachon is renowned for its seafood, beaches and districts named after the seasons of the year. Located just a short distance from Bordeaux, Arcachon has historically been a popular location with tourists in search of clean sea air. Today, most visitors come to Arcachon searching for the world’s freshest oysters.

Typical of other French cities, Arcachon is known for its food. The main market is open day and night between June and September, where local vendors sell artisan goods. Head to restaurants like Chez Pierre and L’Oyster to sample the city’s hallmark dish or take a boat trip to the Cap Ferrat Peninsula to enjoy oysters straight from the sea. The Royal Moulleau promenade – famed for its delicious ice cream and sea views – is a favourite for those who have a sweet tooth.

Arcachon’s SpringTown district is where you’ll find some of France’s best beaches. Head to La Ville de Printemps or Plage Pereire – the city’s most famous beach – to find three kilometres of white sands and a beautiful promenade. Alternatively, Plage des Abatilles and des Arbousiers provide great kitesurfing opportunities.

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Most popular time to visit October-December
Cheapest time to visit January-March
Local currency € 1 = $1.17
Language French
Average weekend price $217 per night
Average weekday price $214 per night
Average stay 2 nights

Arcachon reviews

What other travelers say about Arcachon

10

Loved the dunes.

August 15, 2025

Loved the dunes. Very difficult to park but our holiday was in peak season so understandable. Quality of food not great and expensive. The best meal we had was at the dunes and that was the cheapest too. Lots to do for everyone but next time we would go out of high season

ROY
ROY France
10

Beautiful place!

June 13, 2025

Beautiful place! The waitress in Diego's restaurant on the front was very patient and helpful with our group of 14. Food delicious, not cheap, but well worth it... we went back a second night. Alma Mia's for nummy pizza's etc. Lots of little cafes for crepes and cheeses. Beach and sea clean... perfect!.

Loughlin
Loughlin
4.0

We were travelling with our dog and dogs were not allowed on...

June 3, 2025

We were travelling with our dog and dogs were not allowed on the beaches or the boardwalk. We thought it was quite built up. All the promenade was being dug up while we were there so that affected our view of the place. Couldn't find vegetarian food except for pizza Le Teich Bird Reserve was fantastic and that was the reason we went to Arcachon.

Malcolm
Malcolm United Kingdom
10

A sophisticated, small beach resort located on the southern...

May 29, 2025

A sophisticated, small beach resort located on the southern shores of Arcachon bay. Take a trip on the ferry boats to Cap Ferret and Andernos to enjoy the real oyster tasting experience. Taxis are available if needed, but you can walk around Arcachon with ease. There is a good selection of seafood restaurants at the beach front and dotted throughout Arcachon.

Chris
Chris France
10

A stroll along the promenade, stopping for a morning coffee...

October 30, 2024

A stroll along the promenade, stopping for a morning coffee at the many restaurants, followed by a seafood lunch. A visit to the gardens was fascinating as was the architecture of the "old Town". Shopping was incredible with many niche shops. Eating out was difficult because there were many quality restaurants to choose from! The town was immaculately clean and is one we will definitely return to.

John
John France
8.0

We attended a wedding in Arcachon and did not experience the...

September 17, 2024

We attended a wedding in Arcachon and did not experience the town for what it is, a beach resort town. We enjoyed the vibe of the town in the busiest month of August for Arcacon the beaches were packed with people, mainly French, not many foreigners. The attraction of Arcachon lies in the protection of the beaches from the Bay from the rough Atlantic. This is a local affair for people wanting to enjoy a relaxed, warm beach day without having to make the trip to south of France such as Niece.

Randolf
Randolf

Popular places to stay in Arcachon

Stay in some of the best accommodations Arcachon has to offer