The Arcachon Bay is an ideal destination for family moments. Between cultural discoveries, outdoor activities, and relaxing moments, here are five activity ideas to share with your family and make the most of this beautiful region.
1. Discover the Reserve Ornithologique du Teich
Located on the Arcachon Bay, the Reserve Ornithologique du Teich is a preserved natural site offering a unique opportunity to closely observe wild birds in their natural habitat.
Open to the public year-round, the Reserve is a true haven of peace where you can observe a wide variety of birds: swans, geese, ducks, cormorants, raptors, seagulls… One of the best ways to discover this place is by following the 6 km trail, which will introduce you to the diversity of the ecosystem. It takes about 4 hours to complete the full loop, but there is also a shorter 2 km loop for a quicker stroll.
If you want to eat on-site, check out the Brasserie du Delta located at the entrance, offering homemade dishes made from local products and seafood.
Throughout the year, various activities are organized to enrich your experience. For example, on Saturday, April 5th, we invite you to enjoy a combined activity: a collective canoe descent on the Leyre River followed by a guided walking tour of the Reserve Ornithologique du Teich with a naturalist guide, all starting at 26 euros. An unforgettable experience not to be missed! For more information, click here.
Infos :
Réserve Ornithologique du Teich - Rue du Port BP 11
33470 Le Teich
2. Visit the Halles d’Arcachon Market
A must-do activity during a family trip is visiting the typical markets of the region. For this, head to the Halles d’Arcachon, located at Place des Marquises.
Ideally located between the Town Hall and the beach, this municipal market is open year-round. Set in a charming atmosphere inspired by the design of the old Baltard halls, come and discover the essential food products of the region!
In numbers, the Halles d'Arcachon boasts 21 indoor stalls and 10 outdoor stalls, spread over 2,500 m². There are about thirty stands offering everything from fresh produce, fishmongers, butchers, wine merchants, and oyster stalls… There's something for everyone.
Seasonal products, fresh fish arrivals from the auction, Bordeaux cannelés, poultry, pastries, fine grocery items, regional cheeses, and flowers are waiting for you.
Take the time to stop for a coffee, stroll around, taste oysters from the Bay, or enjoy a meal on-site. A true delight for the taste buds!
Infos :
Marché d’Arcachon - Les Halles
Place des Marquises
33120 Arcachon
3. Take a stroll at the Zoo du Bassin d’Arcachon
For an activity that is sure to please the whole family, we recommend visiting one of the largest zoos in Nouvelle-Aquitaine. Located just 5 minutes from the Dune du Pilat and 1 hour from Bordeaux, the Arcachon Bay Zoo is very easy to access.
This zoo spans 22 hectares of forest and offers a 4 km path, home to over 1,000 animals from 200 rare and iconic species from around the world. You will encounter parrots, cheetahs, antelopes, chimpanzees, and many other animals, making it a perfect place to delight both young and old.
The Zoo du Bassin d’Arcachon immerses you in the ecosystems of each continent, allowing you to meet animals typical of different regions of the world. It’s the perfect opportunity to travel through the discovery of a wide variety of mammals and birds.
For an even more immersive experience, you can become a "zookeeper for the day." This activity lets you discover the job of an animal keeper by participating in a program that includes encounters with various animals, such as giraffes, red pandas, lemurs, and helping with the preparation and distribution of their meals. The half-day concludes with a visit to the African plain exhibits. An ideal experience to share with the family!
Infos :
Zoo du Bassin d’Arcachon
Boulevard de Cazaux
33260 La Teste De Buch
4. Visit the Oyster Village of l’Herbe
Head to Cap Ferret, along the peninsula, to discover the village of l'Herbe, considered the most beautiful village on the Arcachon Bay. This charming village is home to fishermen’s huts dating back to the late 19th century, some of which are still used for oyster farming. Others welcome tourists for tastings with their feet in the water, an experience not to be missed to savor oysters, shrimp, and white wine.
With typical huts, colorful flowers, breathtaking views of the bay, and a small beach lined with lovely houses, this is the perfect spot for an outdoor family walk!
If you continue further south, visit the Chapel of the Villa Algérienne. Open daily from 10 am to 4:30 pm, you can admire its beautiful Moorish style. A place as enchanting as it is magnificent!
Finally, end your excursion with a relaxing break at the Chapelle beach. Just a short walk from the oyster village, it offers views of the typical villages. The perfect spot for families.
5. Go on an adventure at Bassin Aventure’s treetop course
Finally, for a sporty family activity, the treetop course at Bassin Aventure is the ideal option! The park opens its doors on April 12th and offers the largest treetop course in Gironde.
Located just 10 minutes from Arcachon, Bassin Aventure is an outdoor leisure park that invites you to enjoy the forest while relaxing and having fun. There’s something for all ages and skill levels: courses for children as young as 3, family outings, and group activities. With its 24 unique courses of increasing difficulty, the park offers activities for the whole family, including nighttime adventures!
Infos :
Bassin Aventure
16 avenue des Loisirs
33470 Gujan-Mestras