
Wimereux Seaside and Dunes de la Slack
Explore miles of stunning beach at low tide and majestic, wild sand dunes. A truly inspiring natural escape.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Miles of beach to explore

Wimereux Seaside and Dunes de la Slack
Best Time
Miles of beach to explore

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore miles of stunning beach at low tide and majestic, wild sand dunes. A truly inspiring natural escape.
"Wow! This is stunningly wonderful - you can walk for miles and kilometres when the tide is low. It's an inspiring experience."

Check Tide Charts First! :ocean:
Crucial for beach access. Low tide offers miles of walking; high tide can block paths. Plan accordingly!
Wear Sturdy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Dunes can be sandy and uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the natural landscape.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Expansive Low Tide Beach
Wimereux Beach
Walk for miles on a vast, scenic beach when the tide recedes. Perfect for long, inspiring strolls.

Majestic Sand Dunes
Dunes de la Slack
Explore breathtaking, wild sand dunes offering a unique natural landscape and great hiking opportunities.
Coastal Road Views
Coastal Road from Calais
Enjoy scenic views along the coast road, with easy access to the beach and dunes from designated car parks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tide Times are Crucial
Embrace the Wild
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Tide Charts First! :ocean:
Crucial for beach access. Low tide offers miles of walking; high tide can block paths. Plan accordingly!
Wear Sturdy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Dunes can be sandy and uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the natural landscape.
Pack Snacks & Water :water_wave:
Amenities are limited. Bring your own refreshments for a comfortable and enjoyable day out in this wild area.
Respect the Reserve :seedling:
The Dunes de la Slack are a nature reserve. Stay on marked paths to protect the fragile ecosystem.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tide Charts First! :ocean:
Crucial for beach access. Low tide offers miles of walking; high tide can block paths. Plan accordingly!
Wear Sturdy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Dunes can be sandy and uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the natural landscape.
Pack Snacks & Water :water_wave:
Amenities are limited. Bring your own refreshments for a comfortable and enjoyable day out in this wild area.
Respect the Reserve :seedling:
The Dunes de la Slack are a nature reserve. Stay on marked paths to protect the fragile ecosystem.
Car Parks Available :car:
Two car parks offer access. Arrive early during peak times to secure a spot, especially for larger groups.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning, wild beauty of Wimereux Seaside and Dunes de la Slack, particularly the miles of beach accessible at low tide and the majestic dunes. It's praised as an inspiring and amazing natural area perfect for long walks and relaxation. Some note that amenities are limited and high tide can restrict access, but the rustic charm is a significant draw for many.
"Wow! This is stunningly wonderful - you can walk for miles and kilometres when the tide is low. It's an inspiring experience. Don't miss it."
AnthonyPeter Swallow
"Amazing wild area, majestic dunes, great for walks."
Joelle Dufour
"Very nice beach. However you cannot just cross to the village (River estuary might stop you from getting there) and with high tide you cannot go past the other Cap. The back of the beach is a fenced of nature reserve. While some seemed to go through the Dunes at high tide, it did not seem pleasant at all."
Simon Willems
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is by car, with two car parks providing access to the beach and dunes. It's located off the coastal road from Calais. Public transport options are limited, so driving is highly recommended for flexibility.
There are two car parks available. While generally sufficient, they can fill up during peak season or on busy weekends. Arriving earlier in the day is advisable.
Access can be tricky depending on the tide. The river estuary might block direct passage, and high tide can limit routes. It's best to use the designated car parks for direct beach access.
Yes, the coastal road from Calais towards Wimereux offers lovely views, making the drive itself part of the experience. It's a pleasant route to access this wild area.
Public transport is not readily available directly to the beach and dunes. It's best to plan your visit with a private vehicle for convenient access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the beach and the Dunes de la Slack is free. It's a natural, public area for everyone to enjoy.
As a natural area, there are no set opening or closing hours. You can visit anytime, but it's best to go during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
There is no entrance fee for the Dunes de la Slack nature reserve. However, visitors are expected to respect the environment and stay on marked paths.
You can access the beach anytime, but your experience will be vastly different depending on the tide. Low tide is ideal for extensive exploration.
The main restriction is respecting the nature reserve. Stick to designated paths and avoid disturbing wildlife. High tide can also naturally restrict access to certain areas.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy long walks on the beach at low tide, explore the majestic sand dunes, relax by the sea, and take in the scenic coastal views. It's a great spot for nature lovers and hikers.
Absolutely! The dunes offer a unique hiking experience. The vast beach at low tide also provides ample space for long-distance walks.
Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes or boots, as the sand can be soft and uneven. Layers of clothing are recommended as coastal weather can change quickly.
Yes, swimming is possible, but be aware of currents and conditions. It's a wild beach, so always exercise caution and check local advice if available.
Definitely! The dramatic dunes, expansive beach, and coastal scenery offer fantastic photographic opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Amenities are limited directly at the beach and dunes. You'll find more dining options in the nearby village of Wimereux, which is a short drive away.
Yes, picnicking is a great option. Bring your own food and drinks as there are no facilities on-site. Remember to take all your litter with you.
Wimereux village offers a range of eateries, from casual cafes to seafood restaurants, providing a good selection for a meal after your visit.
No, there are no shops or kiosks directly at the beach or dunes. It's best to come prepared with all your food and drink needs.
Public toilet facilities are scarce directly at the beach and dunes. It's advisable to use facilities in Wimereux village or plan accordingly.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic light for capturing the dunes and beach. Overcast days can also create a moody, atmospheric feel.
The rolling sand dunes with their textures and shadows, the vast expanse of the beach at low tide, and the coastal landscape are all highly photogenic.
No specific photography restrictions apply, but always be mindful of the natural environment and any other visitors. Respect the nature reserve rules.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the dunes and beach. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or distant coastal features. A tripod is helpful for low-light conditions.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check current local and national drone laws before flying, especially in natural or protected areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks, drinks, and sun protection, as amenities are scarce. The rustic nature of the area means it's less crowded than more developed beaches, offering a more relaxed experience for families. Checking tide times is also important to ensure maximum beach play area for the little ones.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
Safety is paramount for solo visitors. While the area is generally safe, it's always wise to inform someone of your plans, especially if venturing far along the beach or into less-traveled dune paths. The lack of crowds can be a major draw for those seeking solitude, but also means being more self-reliant.
📸 Photographers & Nature Enthusiasts
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the protected status of the Dunes de la Slack, offering a glimpse into a delicate coastal ecosystem. Birdwatching can also be rewarding here. Remember to tread lightly and respect the environment to preserve its beauty for future visitors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Dunes de la Slack
When exploring, be prepared for sandy terrain. The shifting sands create ever-changing patterns, making each visit potentially different. The area is less developed than a typical tourist beach, which is part of its charm for those seeking a more natural experience. It's a place where you can truly feel immersed in nature, away from the hustle and bustle.
Remember that this is a wild area, so amenities are minimal. Bringing water and snacks is essential for a comfortable exploration. The dunes are best appreciated on foot, allowing you to fully absorb the scale and tranquility of this beautiful coastal environment.
The Magic of Low Tide Walks
The receding tide also uncovers interesting textures and patterns in the sand, and sometimes even small pools teeming with marine life. It's a chance to connect with the rhythm of the ocean and appreciate the sheer scale of the coastline. Many visitors describe the experience as 'inspiring' and 'stunningly wonderful' due to the sheer immensity of the beach available for exploration.
It's crucial to be aware of the tide times before setting out. While low tide offers the most freedom, high tide can significantly reduce the available beach area and may even cut off certain routes. Always check a tide chart to maximize your time on the sand and ensure a safe and enjoyable walk.
Navigating Access and Amenities
When it comes to amenities, this is a wild and natural location. You won't find many facilities directly on the beach or within the dunes themselves. This means it's essential to come prepared. Bringing your own food, water, and any other necessities is highly advised for a comfortable visit. There are no shops or cafes directly on-site.
For dining and more comprehensive facilities, the nearby village of Wimereux is your best bet. It's a short drive away and offers a selection of restaurants, cafes, and potentially public toilets. Planning your visit to include a stop in the village before or after your beach and dune exploration can enhance your overall experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit