Plage de la Conche des Baleines, Ile de Re
4.3 / 5 Wide sandy beach below the Phare des Baleines lighthouse on Ile de Re in Conche des Baleines, Ile de Re · Hidden gem
Photo: Stedewa, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
La Conche des Baleines is a wide sandy beach on the north-west tip of Ile de Re, with dunes and the Phare des Baleines lighthouse nearby. It is exposed to Atlantic waves and best for walking and cycling. Swimming depends on the tide and the sea state.
Practical info for Plage de la Conche des Baleines, Ile de Re
| Access | Short walk over the dunes |
|---|---|
| Car parking | Parking near the lighthouse area |
| Sunbeds & umbrellas | None; bring shade |
| Food & drink | Cafes near the lighthouse |
| Good to know | Cycle from the village and check tide times before swimming. |
Last verified: October 2026. Compiled from official tourism pages, visitor guides and recent reports. Prices, fees and rules change by season, so confirm locally before you go.
Planning your visit to Plage de la Conche des Baleines, Ile de Re
Sand beaches are usually gentle underfoot and easy for swimmers and children, though they can be exposed to wind and waves, so check conditions on the day. Bring a hat and extra water, as shade can be scarce away from facilities.
Access is rated easy, so most visitors can reach the beach without a long walk or special equipment.
The usual season runs July–September. Visiting near the start or end of that window usually means fewer people, but the sea is cooler and some facilities may not be open yet or may have closed for the year. We flag this beach as a hidden gem, so it is quieter than the headline beaches nearby, but it is no secret: arrive early in peak summer.
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Featured in: Hidden Gem Beaches in France · Beach finder
View Plage de la Conche des Baleines, Ile de Re on the map · Compare with all beaches
Best months to visit Plage de la Conche des Baleines, Ile de Re
The swimming season here runs from July to September. August is the warmest and busiest, with the sea around 19 °C, so arrive early for parking and a good spot. July and September are quieter and cooler: good for walking and photos, though some beach bars and lifeguard posts may not be open yet or may already have closed for the year.
Who Plage de la Conche des Baleines, Ile de Re suits
Sand makes it comfortable for sunbathing, building sandcastles and long walks along the water line. Easy access makes it practical for families, older visitors and anyone with a pushchair. It is flagged as a hidden gem, so it suits travellers who prefer quieter places over the headline beaches. Food and drink close by make it easy to stay for the whole day.
Getting there and nearby
Parking near the lighthouse area. The beach sits at about 46.244, -1.561 on the map, so use the map link above for directions. If you are planning a day around it, the closest other beaches on our list are Plage des Minimes, La Rochelle (32 km), Plage de la Palmyre (69 km), Plage de la Grande Conche (82 km).
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Plage de la Conche des Baleines, Ile de Re?
Plage de la Conche des Baleines, Ile de Re is best visited July to September. The sea is typically around 19 °C in season. Cycle from the village and check tide times before swimming.
How do I get to Plage de la Conche des Baleines, Ile de Re?
Access is rated easy. Parking near the lighthouse area.
What facilities does Plage de la Conche des Baleines, Ile de Re have?
Cafes and a few services nearby; no lifeguard on all stretches.
Where is Plage de la Conche des Baleines, Ile de Re?
Plage de la Conche des Baleines, Ile de Re is in Conche des Baleines, Ile de Re (approx. coordinates 46.2442, -1.5612).
Is Plage de la Conche des Baleines, Ile de Re good for children?
Access is rated easy and the beach is sandy, which usually suits families. Check water and weather conditions on the day and keep children in sight near the water.
What should I bring to Plage de la Conche des Baleines, Ile de Re?
Facilities: Cafes and a few services nearby; no lifeguard on all stretches. A hat and sun protection are useful. Bring water and snacks if there is no kiosk or restaurant.
Is there parking at Plage de la Conche des Baleines, Ile de Re?
Parking near the lighthouse area. Fees and rules change, so confirm locally.
Are there sunbeds at Plage de la Conche des Baleines, Ile de Re?
None; bring shade. Prices are approximate and change by season.
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Beaches near Plage de la Conche des Baleines, Ile de Re
Plage des Minimes, La Rochelle
Les Minimes, La Rochelle, Charente-Maritime · 4.1 / 5 · 32 km away
Plage de la Palmyre
La Palmyre, Les Mathes, Charente-Maritime · 4.3 / 5 · 69 km away
Plage de la Grande Conche
Royan, Charente-Maritime · 4.3 / 5 · 82 km away
Plage de Soulac-sur-Mer
Soulac-sur-Mer, Nouvelle-Aquitaine · 4.3 / 5 · 90 km away
Plage des Dames, Noirmoutier
Noirmoutier-en-l Ile, Vendee · 4.6 / 5 · 99 km away
Pornic Beach, Loire-Atlantique
Pornic, Loire-Atlantique, Pays de la Loire · 4.3 / 5 · 105 km awayBrowse all beaches in France or compare every beach.
Scores are editorial ratings from the EuroShores team. Last updated 2026-10-26.