Plage de la Concurrence
A charming urban beach in La Rochelle, perfect for a quick dip or sunbathing with views of the port. Conveniently located near the city center.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid crowds, enjoy cooler temps
Plage de la Concurrence
Best Time
Avoid crowds, enjoy cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming urban beach in La Rochelle, perfect for a quick dip or sunbathing with views of the port. Conveniently located near the city center.
"Nice small beach within walking distance of the centre of La Rochelle. Has shop, cafe and toilets."
Wear Water Shoes! 🥾
Sharp stones and rocks are common. Water shoes are a must for comfortable swimming and walking.
Dog-Friendly Early/Late 🐶
Well-behaved dogs are welcome, especially during off-peak hours. Remember to clean up after them.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Urban Beach Vibe
Heart of La Rochelle
Enjoy sunbathing and a refreshing dip with stunning views of the port and city. Perfect for a quick escape.
Proximity to Vieux-Port
Adjacent to the Old Port
Stroll from the beach to explore La Rochelle's iconic three towers and charming streets.
Coastal Promenade
Along the beach
A lovely pedestrian path perfect for a leisurely walk or a bike ride, connecting to longer coastal routes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beach Access & Conditions
Getting There & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Water Shoes! 🥾
Sharp stones and rocks are common. Water shoes are a must for comfortable swimming and walking.
Dog-Friendly Early/Late 🐶
Well-behaved dogs are welcome, especially during off-peak hours. Remember to clean up after them.
Pack Sunscreen & Snacks ☀️
Plenty of sunbathing spots! A snack bar is nearby, but bringing your own is also a good idea.
Great for Quick Dips 🏊♀️
Perfect for a refreshing swim, with lifeguards on duty during summer. The slope is gentle.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Water Shoes! 🥾
Sharp stones and rocks are common. Water shoes are a must for comfortable swimming and walking.
Dog-Friendly Early/Late 🐶
Well-behaved dogs are welcome, especially during off-peak hours. Remember to clean up after them.
Pack Sunscreen & Snacks ☀️
Plenty of sunbathing spots! A snack bar is nearby, but bringing your own is also a good idea.
Great for Quick Dips 🏊♀️
Perfect for a refreshing swim, with lifeguards on duty during summer. The slope is gentle.
Explore Nearby Attractions 🚶♀️
Walk to the Vieux-Port, see the iconic towers, and explore the historic city center.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Plage de la Concurrence is a well-loved urban beach in La Rochelle, praised for its convenient location near the city center and port, making it ideal for quick dips and sunbathing. Visitors appreciate the nearby amenities and the pleasant promenade, though some note the presence of sharp stones in the water, recommending water shoes.
"I love coming to this beach as my dog loves swimming here. We come very early or late so as to not interfere with others beach time. If you do bring your dog here please make sure to clean up if they do have an accident. They keep this beach in good condition. There are lovely seats adjacent to the beach."
Brid
"The beach was far from the tanning and this is good because it gives more space, you can also buy drinks and snacks from a shop just right there. It’s very clean and the atmosphere is cool!🤩"
Elena El Jebrine
"Plage de la Concurrence is a small, urban beach located in the heart of La Rochelle, France. It is just a short walk from the city center and the Vieux-Port, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
The beach is made up of fine sand and offers stunning views of the port and the surrounding area. There is also a small snack bar on the beach, as well as public toilets and showers.
Tips for Your Visit
Best Time to Visit: The beach is most lively during the summer months (June to September). However, it can get crowded during French school holidays in July and August. For a quieter experience, consider visiting in late spring (May, June) or early fall (September).
Swimming: The beach is perfect for a swim, thanks to its gentle slope. Lifeguards patrol the area from June to September, making it safe for families with children.
Sunbathing: This beach offers an excellent sunbathing spot. Just don't forget to apply your sunblock!
Water Sports: If you enjoy water sports, Plage de la Concurrence has facilities for sailing and surfing. Equipment can be rented nearby.
Walking and Cycling: There's a lovely pedestrian promenade along the beach, which is also part of a longer coastal path. A cycle path is available if you prefer biking.
Restaurants and Cafés: Close to the beach, there are several cafés, ice cream shops, and restaurants where you can enjoy local cuisine after a relaxing day at the beach.
Facilities & Services
Public Toilets: Available close to the beach area.
Showers: Rinse off the sand and saltwater after a refreshing swim.
Lockers: Secure your valuables in available lockers.
Parking
There's a parking lot near the beach, but it can get crowded during the peak season. If you're visiting during this time, consider walking or using public transport to get to the beach.
With these tips, your visit to Plage de la Concurrence will be smooth and enjoyable. The beach's natural beauty, facilities, and close proximity to dining options make it a perfect spot for a day out in La Rochelle. Enjoy your visit!"
Ken DV
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Plage de la Concurrence is conveniently located within walking distance of La Rochelle's city center and the Vieux-Port. It's a pleasant stroll, making it easily accessible without a car.
Yes, there is a parking lot near the beach. However, it can get very crowded during the peak summer season. Consider using public transport or walking if possible.
Absolutely! There's a dedicated cycle path along the beach, which is part of a longer coastal route, making it a great option for cyclists.
Walking from the Vieux-Port is highly recommended and offers scenic views. Public transport options are also available within the city.
While Île de Ré has its own beautiful beaches, Plage de la Concurrence offers a different urban beach experience. It's accessible by public transport or a short drive if you're coming from the island.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Plage de la Concurrence is a public beach and entry is free for everyone.
As a public beach, it's accessible at all times. However, lifeguard services are typically available during the summer months, usually from June to September.
There are no entry fees for Plage de la Concurrence. It's a free public space for all to enjoy.
The beach itself is never closed. However, lifeguard patrols and some facilities might be seasonal, primarily operating during the summer.
Yes, dogs are generally allowed, especially during early morning or late evening hours to avoid peak times. It's important to keep them under control and clean up after them.
🎫 🏊♀️ Onsite Experience
Yes, the beach has a gentle slope and is patrolled by lifeguards during the summer months (June-September), making it safe for swimming, including for families with children.
The beach is primarily composed of fine sand, but there are also sharp stones and rocks, especially in the water. Water shoes are highly recommended for comfort.
Yes, public toilets and showers are available close to the beach area, allowing you to rinse off after a swim.
While the beach itself is more for swimming and sunbathing, facilities for sailing and surfing might be available for rent nearby.
You'll enjoy stunning views of the La Rochelle port and the surrounding maritime landscape, including the iconic towers.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several cafes, ice cream shops, and restaurants located close to the beach, offering local cuisine and refreshments.
There is a small snack bar located right on the beach where you can purchase drinks and snacks.
For seafood lovers, Le Merluberlu offers revisited classics. La Fabuleuse Cantine is great for burgers and daily specials, with vegetarian options.
Yes, the beach is a great spot for a picnic. You can bring your own food or grab something from the nearby snack bar or restaurants.
La Fabuleuse Cantine, for example, offers a good range of vegetarian options. It's always a good idea to check menus beforehand.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the urban beach vibe with the port and towers in the background. The coastal promenade and historic ramparts nearby also offer great shots.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful light for photography. Midday can be harsh but still offers great views of the port.
Yes, the Maison du Chat and the ancient ramparts leading to the Porte des 2 Moulins are picturesque spots just a short walk away.
Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone over the beach or populated areas.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both the beach and the cityscapes. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the expansive port views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Dog Owners
🚶♀️ Walkers & Cyclists
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Beach Conditions
The beach is known for its gentle slope, making it suitable for a quick dip or for children to play near the shore. Despite the rocky entry, the overall atmosphere is often described as clean and cool, with lovely seating areas adjacent to the beach for those who prefer to stay dry. It's a place where locals and tourists alike come to enjoy the seaside without venturing far from the city's amenities.
Exploring the Surroundings
This proximity means you can easily transition from a relaxing afternoon by the sea to exploring the city's historic streets, its famous three towers that guard the channel, and a variety of restaurants and cafes. The beach also serves as a starting point for longer coastal walks or cycling routes, offering a chance to discover more of the region's scenic beauty. It's this blend of urban convenience and coastal charm that makes Plage de la Concurrence a popular spot.
Best Times to Visit for Different Experiences
If you're looking for a lively atmosphere and the assurance of lifeguard services, the summer months (June-September) are your best bet. However, be prepared for higher visitor numbers, especially during July and August, which are peak French holiday periods. For those who prefer to avoid the crowds but still want to enjoy the beach, aiming for early mornings or late evenings during summer can offer a good compromise, providing cooler temperatures and fewer people.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit