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There are great many things to do in France, and so are in La Baule.
Nestled along the pristine coast of western France, La Baule beckons intrepid travelers with its endless stretch of sandy shores and unmatched charm.
From soaking up the sun on pristine beaches to exploring the quaint streets lined with elegant boutiques and upscale restaurants, this enchanting town promises an endless selection of activities for visitors of all ages.
Whether you’re seeking a relaxing retreat or an adventurous haven, La Baule is sure to leave you captivated with its timeless beauty and unparalleled allure.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in La Baule:
1. La Baule Beach
La Baule Beach is a long and wide strip of golden sand located on the Atlantic coast in western France.
What to see or do: This stunning beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports such as windsurfing, paddleboarding, and kiteboarding. The clear blue water and gentle waves make it a great spot for families with children to splash and play.
You can also take a horseback ride along the beach, explore the nearby forest, or simply relax in one of the many beachside cafes.
Don’t miss: A stroll along the promenade that runs parallel to the beach.
It’s lined with charming French villas, chic restaurants, and designer boutiques that offer a glimpse of the glamorous lifestyle of the French Riviera.
Insider travel tips: – The beach can get crowded during peak season, so arrive early to secure a good spot.
2. Les Jardins Littoraux
A beautiful public park located in the seaside resort of La Baule, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the various gardens, including a Japanese garden and a Mediterranean garden. The park also offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Don’t miss: The rose garden, which features over 200 different varieties of roses and is particularly stunning during the summer months.
Insider travel tips: Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch on one of the many benches throughout the park.
Additionally, if you’re visiting in the summer, be sure to check out the free music concerts that are held in the gardens on certain evenings.
3. La Baule-Escoublac Market
La Baule-Escoublac Market is a popular open-air market located in the heart of La Baule-Escoublac, a seaside resort town in western France.
What to see or do: Visitors to the market can expect to find a wide variety of local products and goods, including fresh produce, seafood, cheese, bread, flowers, clothing, crafts, and more.
The market is a great place to sample the local cuisine and culture of the region.
Don’t miss: Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as the Vendée ham, the Guérande salt, and the Muscadet wine.
The market is also a great place to pick up souvenirs, such as postcards, magnets, and other locally-made products.
Insider travel tips: If you’re visiting La Baule-Escoublac in the summer months, be prepared for large crowds at the market. Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful shopping experience.
Also, don’t forget to bring cash, as many of the vendors may not accept credit cards.
4. La Baule-Escoublac Train Station
La Baule-Escoublac Train Station is a major railway station located in the seaside resort town of La Baule-Escoublac, in western France.
What to see or do: The station is designed in the style of a Belle Époque palace, and it is worth taking a few minutes to admire its architecture and decorative elements, including the stained glass windows, frescoes, and marble floors.
Don’t miss: If you have time to spare, there are several shops, cafes, and restaurants located within the station building and in the surrounding area.
Insider travel tips: If you are staying in La Baule-Escoublac or nearby towns such as Guérande or Pornichet, the train station is a convenient starting point for exploring the region.
You can catch trains to destinations such as Nantes, Saint-Nazaire, and Le Croisic, as well as regional buses and taxis. Be aware that the station can get busy during peak travel times, so allow extra time to catch your train.
5. Le Plage Benoit
A picturesque beach in La Baule, France, with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
What to see or do: Enjoy swimming in the clean and calm waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Take a long stroll or jog along the sandy shorelines.
Witness breathtaking sunsets from the beach.
Don’t miss: Try some mouth-watering seafood delicacies at the nearby restaurants. Soak in the laid-back and relaxed atmosphere of the beach.
Insider travel tips: It can get quite crowded during peak season, so it’s advisable to arrive early to secure a good spot. Carry sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
6. Horse-Drawn Carriage Tours
Horse-Drawn Carriage Tours is an ideal way to explore the charming coastal town of La Baule in France.
What to see or do: The tour takes you on a leisurely ride through the town’s streets, alongside the beach and to some of its most popular attractions like the Grand Hotel and the Casino.
Don’t miss: Admire the elegant villas and the Belle Epoque architecture as your guide informs you about the town’s history and culture.
Insider travel tips: Book your carriage ride early in the day, and you may have a chance to enjoy the sunrise over the magnificent Bay of La Baule.
Dress warmly during the colder months to stay cozy in the open carriage.
7. Chateau des Tourelles Thalasso Spa
Chateau des Tourelles Thalasso Spa is a luxurious 5-star hotel and spa located in the picturesque town of La Baule in France.
What to see or do: – Relax and rejuvenate in the stunning thalassotherapy spa with a variety of treatments that make use of the healing properties of seawater and marine ingredients.
Don’t miss: – The panoramic views of the sea from the hotel’s rooms and suites, some of which feature private balconies.
Insider travel tips: – Book spa treatments well in advance as they tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak holiday seasons.
8. La Baule International Sailing Center
La Baule International Sailing Center is a state-of-the-art sailing center located on the beach of La Baule, a charming seaside resort town in France.
What to see or do: The sailing center offers a wide range of sailing activities, including lessons, regattas, and rentals for all levels of experience. Visitors can also enjoy beach volleyball, kite flying, and other beach activities.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take a sunset sail and enjoy the breathtaking views of the bay.
The sailing center also hosts major national and international sailing events throughout the year, so check the calendar to see what’s on during your visit.
Insider travel tips: – If you’re a beginner, start with the catamaran lessons to get a feel for the sport.
9. Le Grand Blockhaus Musee du Mur de l’Atlantique
Le Grand Blockhaus Musée du Mur de l’Atlantique is a museum located in La Baule, dedicated to showcasing the history of the Atlantic Wall, a 2,400 km long defense system built by Nazi Germany during World War II.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore a series of bunkers, tunnels, and observation points, and view exhibitions featuring weapons, uniforms, and other artifacts from the time period.
The museum also offers guided tours and educational programs.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the original rooms and equipment used by the soldiers stationed at the site during the war.
There is also a collection of restored military vehicles, including a Sherman tank and an anti-aircraft battery.
Insider travel tips: – Arrive early to avoid crowds and take advantage of the guided tour options.
10. Ecomusee Regional du Pays Nazairien
Ecomusee Regional du Pays Nazairien is a museum in La Baule, France, focusing on the cultural history of the Nazaire region.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the various exhibits on display, which include traditional crafts, farming techniques, and regional cuisine. The museum also has a collection of historical photographs and documents, as well as interactive displays for visitors to experience.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the exhibit on shipbuilding in the region which showcases the notable shipyards of the area and the craftsmanship involved in building these vessels.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in learning more about the local history, we recommend hiring a guide (available on request) who can provide you with additional insights and context.
Additionally, the museum often hosts events and workshops, so be sure to check their schedule before your visit. Finally, make sure to explore the beautiful beaches and seaside attractions of La Baule while you’re in the area!
11. Casino Barriere de La Baule
A renowned casino located in the beautiful coastal town of La Baule, France.
What to see or do: Experience the thrill of gambling with a wide range of slot machines, table games, and poker. Enjoy live entertainment, cultural events and exhibitions that take place regularly at the casino.
Don’t miss: The casino’s luxurious decor and grand architecture that adds to the overall opulence of the casino.
Insider travel tips: Dressing up for the occasion is highly recommended for the ultimate casino experience.
Also, check out the promotional offers and special events that are hosted by the casino from time to time for a chance to win big.
12. Ocearium Le Croisic
A large aquarium located in Le Croisic, near the popular seaside resort town of La Baule in France.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore various marine habitats and witness a diverse range of sea life, such as sharks, rays, sea horses, jellyfish, and more.
There are also daily shows and feedings.
Don’t miss: The shark tunnel, where visitors can walk underneath large sharks and other predators swimming above.
Insider travel tips: Get there early to avoid crowds, and be sure to bring your camera for some great photo opportunities. Plan your visit around the daily shows and feeding times for the best experience.
13. Escal’Atlantic
A museum showcasing the golden age of ocean liners.
What to see or do: Explore the reconstructed ship interiors, watch multimedia presentations, and learn about the history of transatlantic crossings.
Don’t miss: The chance to step onto the deck of a life-size replica of the famous French ocean liner, SS Normandie.
Insider travel tips: Buy tickets in advance online to avoid long lines.
Also, make sure to allocate enough time to fully immerse yourself in the exhibits and appreciate the attention to detail in the recreated ship interiors.
14. Le Musee des Marais Salants
Le Musee des Marais Salants is a unique museum located in the salt marshes of La Baule, France, which aims to preserve and promote the history and culture of salt production in the region.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the various exhibits showcasing the traditional methods of salt harvesting and the tools used by salt workers throughout history.
You can also take guided tours of the salt marshes to learn more about the process and witness the harvesting firsthand.
Don’t miss: Make sure to see the salt gardens, where you can admire the geometrical patterns formed by the shallow pools of saltwater, and the salt storage areas which have remained unchanged for centuries.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the museum is located within the salt marshes with uneven ground. Try to visit during the harvesting season between July to September for the best experience.
There is also a small gift shop where you can buy locally produced salt and other souvenirs to take home with you.
15. Saint-Nazaire Submarine Base
A former German U-boat base that is now a historic site and museum in Saint-Nazaire, France.
What to see or do: Visit the museum to learn about the history of the base and see artifacts, models, and exhibits related to submarines, naval warfare, and World War II.
Take a guided tour of the base and explore the massive concrete bunkers that were used to house and launch submarines.
Don’t miss: The “Espadon” submarine, which is permanently docked at the Saint-Nazaire harbor as part of the museum collection. Visitors can tour the submarine to see what life was like for the crew on board.
Insider travel tips: – Check the museum’s website for special events and exhibitions throughout the year.