Arcachon is the main destination of the eponymous Bay. The town is divided into four charming districts with unique names: Summer City, Winter City, Autumn City, and Spring City. Sainte-Cécile Belvedere and Pointe de l’Aiguillon also add to Arcachon’s appeal. It’s also a convenient starting point for exploring idyllic spots like the Île aux Oiseaux (accessible by ferry or boat), the Banc d’Arguin, or the Cap Ferret Peninsula. Domaine de la Forge campsite near Arcachon can provide all the information you need to visit the town.

Where is Arcachon?

Arcachon is located in the Gironde department, on the Atlantic coast. The town is 4.5 km north of La Teste-de-Buch and about 11.2 km east of Gujan-Mestras. Le Teich and Biganos are situated 15 km and 23.7 km east of Arcachon, respectively. To the north, you’ll find Andernos-les-Bains and Lanton, located 40.7 km (via D3 or A660) and 33.4 km (via A660) from Arcachon. Don’t miss the map of the Arcachon Bay and the detailed plan of Arcachon’s city center.

Detailed Map of Arcachon for Your Stay

To help you better plan your stay, we’ve highlighted the main tourist attractions in and around Arcachon:

  • Arcachon Beach: The main and most popular beach in town lies between the Eyrac and Thiers piers. This beautiful white sandy beach is particularly lively, with several bars and restaurants nearby. It is also one of the starting points for reaching the Île aux Oiseaux – the ferry crossing takes about half an hour.

  • Arcachon Casino: This castle-like building is striking. Between poker games, guests can refresh themselves at the casino’s restaurant.

  • Mauresque Park: Located near Winter City, Mauresque Park features playgrounds that delight children, jogging paths, and picnic areas for families. It’s also renowned for its variety of rare plants.

  • Abatilles Beach: Situated south of Pereire Beach, this family favorite offers numerous activities, including windsurfing, kitesurfing, sunbathing, and children’s play areas. A refreshing stroll along the promenade is also a highlight, accompanied by the cool Atlantic breeze. The beach also features shaded areas ideal for family picnics.

  • The Dune of Pilat (La Teste-de-Buch): About 67.6 km from Bordeaux, the Dune of Pilat is Europe’s tallest sand dune, standing approximately 106 meters high, 616 meters wide, and 2.9 km long. Visitors enjoy walking along this stretch of fine sand and climbing to its summit for panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including the Cap Ferret lighthouse, the vast pine forest, and the entrance to Arcachon Bay.

  • Winter City: This historic neighborhood in Arcachon is a must-see, with its 19th-century villas, each featuring different influences and styles, lending an elegant and eclectic charm to Winter City. The district is home to 300 villas, including notable ones like Villa Toledo, Villa Teresa, Villa Alexandre Dumas, and Villa Brémontier.

Winter City gained prominence in Arcachon and the region several centuries ago, during a tuberculosis outbreak that swept Europe, causing widespread panic. Wealthy families built large, opulent homes in the neighborhood to accommodate their sick relatives. The influx of Bordeaux’s upper-class families also led to the construction of Arcachon Casino.