France Télévisions provides a curated guide to the most beautiful and discreet naturist beaches along the coast of the Pays de la loire, offering a chance to experience “total freedom” and serenity. Whether you identify as a nudist or naturist, the region offers opportunities for enjoying the sea in a natural and collective habitat, though locating these spots can be challenging.
The distinction between nudism and naturism is important: while nudism simply involves being unclothed, naturism is a practice rooted in a natural and communal setting. This guide details several beaches where both are welcomed, providing information on access, atmosphere, and local regulations.
Island Escapes & Northern Shores
Grande Conche beach on Yeu Island offers a tolerant environment for naturism, specifically to the south of the beach. Access is via Pointe des Corbeaux,taking the first path to the left after the Ilia path. Parking is available at Fort, with the naturist area approximately 100 meters to the left upon reaching the beach.
Yeu Island Tip
Consider visiting during the off-season for a more secluded experience. The island’s natural beauty extends beyond the beach, so explore the walking trails!
Further north, Péré Grollier beach near Notre-Dame-de-Monts dedicates its northern side to naturists. access is via road from the bank to the Monts bar, turning left after passing La Davière campsite and the start of the Albizia campsite, following signs for the “state forest.” Adjacent to Péré Grollier, Lays beach in La Barre-de-monts is divided into two sections, with the left side designated for naturists. Reaching this beach involves taking the D38 from Fromentine to Notre-Dame, turning onto rue de la Guittonnière, then Rive road, and finally left onto a path marked “Domanial Forest of the Pays-de-Monts.”
Wild & Exclusive Retreats
Salins beach in Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez stands out as a wild and exclusively naturist destination. From the center of Saint-jean-de-Monts,take the D113 towards Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie,and follow the signs from the holiday center in Aubervilliers. Luzéronde beach on Noirmoutier-en-l’île tolerates naturism, located northeast of the island, south of a blockhouse. Access is via the Village de l’Épine, the port of Morin, and the road leading to the sailing school.
Noirmoutier-en-l’île History
Explore the ancient blockhouse near Luzéronde beach for a glimpse into the island’s past. Combine your beach visit with a tour of the island’s salt marshes.
Petit Pont beach near Bretignolles-sur-Mer is considered one of the region’s most beautiful naturist spots. From Brétignolles-sur-Mer, take the Corniche road north, then the D38 (rue de la Grande Sauzaie). After 2 kilometers, turn left near the Le Petit-Pont restaurant and follow the track for 200 meters to parking, with trails leading to the beach in under 10 minutes.
Sauveterre beach in Olonne-sur-Mer is located 700 meters north of the rescue station. Access from Olonne-sur-Mer involves taking the D80 to Brétignolles-sur-Mer,turning left towards the Olonne forest,and then right to the beach,where ample free parking is available. Pointe d’Arçay in La Faute-sur-Mer boasts the largest naturist beach in Vendée, accessible via a 15-minute walk from the beaches of La Barrique or Amourettes.
Safety First!
Always swim within sight of the rescue station at Sauveterre beach.Check the tide times before your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Northernmost & Southern Delights
Terrière beach in La Tranche-sur-Mer, the northernmost beach in the resort, offers a large parking area with 500 spaces accessible via rue de la Mer and rue d’Espagne. A naturist area is located 300 meters north of the rescue post, beyond access point 152. Pen bron’s naturist beach in La Turballe is situated south of the resort, with the area in front of the rehabilitation center reserved for naturists. Access is from the port of La Turballe,heading towards Pen Bron,and following forest paths to the coast.
Secluded Coves & Tolerated Zones
jaunais beach in Saint-Nazaire offers naturist coves accessible via trails to the left of the beach, reached by leaving Pornichet and heading towards Saint-Nazaire, with parking available on the left after the entrance sign to Saint-Nazaire. Choiseau beach in Prefail is a small, secluded cove between Sainte-Marie-sur-Mer and Préfailles, requiring a 500-meter walk from the main parking lot in the Choiseau valley – visitors should be mindful of the rising tide.
Tide Awareness
At Choiseau beach, always be aware of the tide. The cove can quickly become inaccessible as the tide rises, so plan your visit accordingly.
It is indeed crucial to be aware of and respect the specific rules and regulations regarding nudity on each beach to avoid misunderstandings or legal issues.And, as a final reminder, complete sunscreen request is essential for protection. This article was initially published in July 2024 and updated in July 2025.
Beyond the Beach: Embracing Naturism and Its Benefits
The charm of France’s naturist beaches extends well beyond just the sun and sand. True naturism ideology promotes a lifestyle that emphasizes freedom, acceptance, and a deeper connection with nature. This guide will enhance your understanding of naturism in the Pays de la Loire, exploring its wider benefits and the community that embraces it.
Naturism promotes a body-positive philosophy. It encourages individuals to embrace their natural selves and shed societal pressures. It’s a chance to disconnect, relax, and foster a sense of belonging with others who share these values.
The Benefits: More Than Meets the Eye
Participating in naturism offers many benefits beyond aesthetic ones.
- Stress Reduction: The absence of clothing and the connection with nature can considerably lower stress levels.
- Body Positivity: Naturist environments often foster greater acceptance of diverse body types
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