Plage de la Salie Sud
A wild, dog-friendly Atlantic beach in Gironde, perfect for surfing, sunset views, and peaceful strolls through pine forests.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful and deserted
Plage de la Salie Sud
Best Time
Peaceful and deserted
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A wild, dog-friendly Atlantic beach in Gironde, perfect for surfing, sunset views, and peaceful strolls through pine forests.
"Our favorite beach at the Bassin. Dogs allowed, never crowded. Ocean beach, which is super for wave play."
🐾 Dog-Friendly Beach
Dogs are welcome here, making it a great spot for pet owners to enjoy the coast.
🌅 Sunset Magic
Visit late afternoon for stunning sunsets; the beach becomes very quiet.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vast Sandy Shores
Entire beach
Expansive, natural beach perfect for wave play and long walks. Enjoy the rugged beauty of the Atlantic coast.
Sunset Views
Western horizon
Witness spectacular sunsets painting the sky. The beach is often quiet in the evenings, ideal for a romantic or peaceful moment.
Dog-Friendly Freedom
Designated areas
A haven for dogs, allowing them to run and play freely on the sand and in the waves during summer.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Dog-Friendly Paradise
Sunset Serenity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog-Friendly Beach
Dogs are welcome here, making it a great spot for pet owners to enjoy the coast.
🌅 Sunset Magic
Visit late afternoon for stunning sunsets; the beach becomes very quiet.
🌊 Strong Currents
Be aware of strong currents; a lifeguarded area is available from 12-6 PM.
🚶♀️ Forest Walk
Enjoy a lovely walk through the pine forest to reach the beach.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly Beach
Dogs are welcome here, making it a great spot for pet owners to enjoy the coast.
🌅 Sunset Magic
Visit late afternoon for stunning sunsets; the beach becomes very quiet.
🌊 Strong Currents
Be aware of strong currents; a lifeguarded area is available from 12-6 PM.
🚶♀️ Forest Walk
Enjoy a lovely walk through the pine forest to reach the beach.
🚗 Parking Limits
Campervan parking is restricted to 1.9m height.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Plage de la Salie Sud is a beloved natural beach, praised for its vast sandy shores, dog-friendly atmosphere, and stunning sunset views. Visitors appreciate the peaceful evenings and the opportunity for wave play. However, some note strong currents and parking limitations for larger vehicles.
"Amazing beach, went for sunset at 8pm, practically deserted. It is a 10 minute walk (up hill) along a boardwalk (only 0.75km from car park (car park was empty so we parked at the front of the car park). Not sure where the other reviewer walked from when they said it was 30 mins?!?!
Lifeguarded 12-6pm in designated area due to strong currents
Toilets and foot wash showers available
There is a pipe/ pier to the south of the beach - this is another 2km along the beach. Access is not permitted, but many people just over the barrier and walk to the end. Lots of fishermen were fishing off the end of the pier."
Nicky Abraham
"No nearby parking for campervan. Restricted to 1.9m height"
K
"Our favorite beach at the Bassin. Dogs allowed, never crowded. Ocean beach, which is super for wave play."
Rachel Rouquet
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Plage de la Salie Sud is accessible by car, with a parking area available. The walk from the car park to the beach is about 10 minutes along a boardwalk.
Yes, there is a car park, but it has a height restriction of 1.9m for campervans.
Yes, it's a pleasant 10-minute walk uphill along a boardwalk from the car park to the beach.
The beach is located in La Teste-de-Buch and is often mentioned in discussions about the Bassin d'Arcachon area.
The walk involves a boardwalk through a pine forest, which is described as lovely.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Plage de la Salie Sud is a public beach and does not require tickets for entry. Access is free.
There are no entry fees for Plage de la Salie Sud. It's a free public access beach.
As a natural beach, Plage de la Salie Sud is open 24/7. However, lifeguards are present during specific hours in the summer.
For fewer crowds, visiting in the evening, especially around 8 PM, is recommended as the beach becomes very quiet.
The main restriction noted is for campervans in the parking area, which has a 1.9m height limit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy wave play, swimming (in the lifeguarded area), long walks, and simply relaxing on the expansive sandy shores. It's also great for surfing.
Yes, the beach is lifeguarded from 12 PM to 6 PM in a designated area due to strong currents.
Absolutely! Plage de la Salie Sud is a dog-friendly beach, making it a favorite for pet owners.
There are toilets and foot wash showers available for visitors.
While access to the pipe/pier to the south is not permitted, many people fish from the end of it.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a great restaurant located nearby, accessible via a walk through the pine forest.
Picnicking is generally allowed on public beaches, but it's always good to check local regulations for any specific restrictions.
The reviews mention good beach bars available at the location.
You can find a restaurant nearby and beach bars, offering convenient options for refreshments.
While not explicitly mentioned, beach bars often serve snacks. It's advisable to bring your own if you have specific needs.
📸 📸 Photography
The expansive sandy shores, the walk through the pine forest, and especially the sunset offer stunning photographic opportunities.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's recommended to check local rules and be mindful of other beachgoers and wildlife.
The golden hour before sunset provides beautiful lighting, and evenings are great for capturing serene, less crowded scenes.
The rugged natural landscape, the ocean waves, and the pine forest provide diverse subjects for photography.
The pier is visible from the beach, and while access might be restricted, it can still be a photographic element from a distance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families with dogs, this beach is a dream come true, as pets are welcome. This means the whole family, including the four-legged members, can enjoy a day by the sea. The beach bars nearby also offer a convenient spot for a family treat. Just be mindful of the strong currents and always supervise children closely near the water.
🐶 Dog Owners
While dogs are welcome, it's always good practice to keep them under control, especially given the open nature of the beach and the presence of other visitors. Ensure you bring water for your pets, and be aware of the strong currents if they are enthusiastic swimmers. The beach bars and nearby restaurant offer opportunities for a break, and the overall natural setting provides ample space for dogs to explore.
🌅 Sunset Lovers & Photographers
For photographers, the golden hour leading up to sunset is magical. The soft, warm light illuminates the sandy dunes and the ocean, creating stunning visual opportunities. The natural, rugged landscape offers a raw beauty that translates well into photographs. The walk through the pine forest also provides a different photographic perspective. Remember to bring your camera and tripod to capture the breathtaking scenes, especially during the tranquil evening hours when the crowds thin out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Plage de la Salie Sud: Access and Amenities
Once you arrive, you'll find essential amenities to enhance your beach experience. Toilets and foot wash showers are available, providing convenience after a day by the sea. While the beach is largely natural and rugged, these facilities ensure a comfortable visit. The presence of lifeguards during peak hours (12 PM to 6 PM) in a designated zone offers peace of mind for swimmers, especially given the strong currents common to this Atlantic coast.
For those looking for refreshments, there are good beach bars on-site and a well-regarded restaurant accessible via a walk through the adjacent pine forest. This combination of natural beauty, practical amenities, and nearby dining options makes Plage de la Salie Sud a well-rounded destination for a day out.
Embracing the Wild: Nature and Activities
One of the most appealing aspects for many visitors is that dogs are allowed on the beach, even during the summer season. This makes it a prime destination for pet owners looking to share their vacation with their furry companions. The dogs can freely roam and play in the sand and surf, adding to the lively atmosphere for families and dog lovers alike. Beyond the beach itself, the surrounding pine forest offers a beautiful natural setting for walks, adding another layer to the outdoor experience.
For those interested in fishing, there's a pipe or pier to the south of the beach. While direct access might be restricted, many visitors walk to the end to fish. The beach is also known for its stunning sunset views, with the evenings often being very peaceful and nearly deserted, offering a serene end to the day. This blend of natural elements, recreational opportunities, and tranquil moments makes Plage de la Salie Sud a unique coastal escape.
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