The Arcachon basin is not a lake, but a lagoon opening onto the ocean. Around it, however, are several freshwater lakes and ponds, such as Lac de Cazaux and Lac de Sanguinet, perfect for swimming, sailing or family paddling.
Why the Arcachon Basin is not a lake
The Arcachon Basin is not a lake, but a lagoon connected to the Atlantic. What’s the difference? A lagoon is an area of salt water that communicates directly with the sea, unlike the large Landes lakes – such as Hourtin, Carcans or Lacanau – which are closed and filled with fresh water. Here, the water flows in and out through two passes at the rhythm of the tides, completely changing its face: 174 km² at high tide, barely 60 km² at low tide. Bordered by the Dune du Pilat, Cap Ferret and the Banc d’Arguin, the basin is a world apart, where yachtsmen, fishermen and oyster farmers live side by side, making Arcachon oysters famous.
If you’re looking for real freshwater lakes, they’re just a few kilometers away. The most emblematic are Lac de Cazaux and Lac de Sanguinet. Further north, Lac de Lacanau completes the picture, linked to the basin by the Canal des Étangs. These bodies of water offer bathing, relaxation and water sports activities that are much appreciated by holidaymakers. These lakes are ideal alternatives to the ocean for families: calm beaches, warmer water and varied activities.
Freshwater lakes just a stone’s throw from the Basin
Beyond the ocean, the Bassin d’Arcachon is full of surprises with its freshwater lakes and ponds. Families in search of quiet beaches, water sports enthusiasts or couples looking for romantic spots will all find something to suit them. Between dunes, pines and ripples, these lakes offer another facet of the Bassin d’Arcachon.
Lac de Cazaux: closest to Arcachon
Just ten kilometers from the Bassin, the Lac de Cazaux is a veritable inland sea. Its pine-lined sandy beaches, discreet coves and clear water make it the perfect spot for a family day out. You can swim, rent a paddle, go sailing or simply enjoy the shade of the pines after a picnic. Here, the atmosphere is more peaceful than on the ocean coast, and you’ll find that simple vacation feeling that makes the Bassin so charming.
Practical info: several beaches are equipped and supervised in summer, notably the Plage de Cazaux and the Plage du Pavillon. The water here is on average 2 to 3°C warmer than in the ocean, which is particularly appealing to families with children. There are also picnic areas, water sports centres and even beach restaurants.
Lac de Sanguinet: the large lake south of the Arcachon basin
A little further south, between Gironde and Landes, 20 km from the Bassin d’Arcachon, Lac de Sanguinet extends this feeling of being at the end of the world. With its vast expanses of freshwater and beaches just a few minutes’ drive from Arcachon, it attracts those who want to vary the pleasures between ocean and lake. Canoeing, windsurfing, pedal-boating: there’s a place for all kinds of water sports, without the hustle and bustle of the waves.
Practical info: the lake has beaches with lifeguard posts in July and August, supervised swimming areas and renowned sailing clubs. Access is easy by car, with parking close to the beaches, and water sports equipment can be rented on site.
A mosaic of lakes and ponds
The Bassin d’Arcachon is part of a long tradition of coastal lakes in Aquitaine, born behind the dunes. These pockets of fresh water, formed by the closure of ancient estuaries, create a mosaic of landscapes ideal for walking, cycling and family outings.
Lac de Lacanau: the Médoc’s largest lake
Lac de Lacanau, some forty kilometers away, extends this natural network. Linked by the Canal des Étangs, it forms part of the same chain as the Hourtin-Carcans and Médoc lakes. It’s another great playground for lovers of leisurely swimming, sailing or kayaking, all in a very “green vacation” atmosphere.
Practical info: around the lake, cycle paths take you to the beaches or along the shores in complete safety. The site is equipped withplaygrounds, supervised beaches and equipment rental points. Hiking enthusiasts can also take advantage of trails linking the lake, forests and ocean.
The small ponds of Le Porge and Lacanau
Less well-known but just as pleasant, theétang de Batejin (Lacanau) and theétang de Lède Basse (Le Porge) offer more intimate settings. Linked to the basin by a network of crastes and canals, they are a reminder of the extent to which the region has been shaped by water, between lagoon, ocean, lakes and ponds.
Practical info: these more confidential ponds don’t always have tourist facilities, but that’s exactly what appeals to visitors in search of tranquillity. Perfect for a nature walk, a fishing trip or a family or romantic picnic, they offer a wilder, more intimate experience.
Staying at Camping Le Ker Helen
If you want to make the most of the lakes and the Bay of Arcachon, Camping Le Ker Helen is the address of choice. Located in Le Teich, a stone’s throw from Arcachon and just a few kilometers from Lac de Cazaux, our 4-star campsite offers a privileged location between ocean, pond and pine forest.
We offer comfortable mobile-home rentals and spaciouspitches, as well as a heated swimming pool to relax in after a day of sightseeing between the Landes and Gironde regions.
You’ll also find practical services (restaurant, summer entertainment, children’s activities) to make family vacations a breeze. Its location makes it easy to explore the Dune du Pilat, Cap Ferret and the beaches of Lac de Sanguinet.
Looking for an outdoor vacation between lakes and ocean? Book your stay at Camping Le Ker Helen now and discover another facet of the Basin.