The best lakes in the Landes region for swimming and spending a day with the family

Fancy a family day out in the Landes region? Swimming , water sports, sunbathing, and ice cream together? The lakes of the Landes are a true and unique gem! In a pristine natural setting, the large lakes of the Landes are perfect for families, with gentle waves, shady areas (and grassy patches for those who don't like sand), and minimal walking required to reach them. It's the ideal destination for nature lovers! Discover the best lakes in the Landes, a unique area in France, close to the coast!

Cover photo: The Ponton d'Azur on Lake Soustons

The 6 lakes and ponds of the Landes region not to be missed

The Biscarrosse pond

The Biscarrosse and Parentis-en-Born lake is a freshwater lake, just 70 km from Bordeaux and 80 km from Mont-de-Marsan. It is popular with city dwellers seeking relaxation and water sports. Several beaches are developed (and supervised) along its shores, with clear waters for swimming and fine sand for laying out a towel. A canal (the coastal canal, which is partially navigable) connects the lake to the smaller Biscarrosse pond to the north.

On the large lake, which covers more than 35 square kilometers, you'll find a seaplane base and its museum, which we highly recommend a family visit. A multitude of water sports are available, such as water skiing, wakeboarding, sailing, kitesurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking. The water sports centers are mostly located on the eastern side of the lake, towards Parentis-en-Born and Gastes to the south. The western side of the lake is wild and unspoiled. Stroll through the small harbors and along the beaches, some large and busy, others secluded and unique, like little coves. You can relax, simply grab a towel, a deckchair, or a sun lounger and settle in to read or take a nap – it's vacation time! Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated picnic areas. You'll also find plenty of places to grab a snack or a meal at a restaurant on Lake Biscarrosse, all with lovely views of the lake!

Lake Aureilhan and Mimizan

This lake is popular with anglers, as it boasts beautiful specimens of carp, zander, and pike. Like other lakes in the Landes region near the ocean, it was formed by coastal dunes, which created water retention basins fed by rainwater and runoff. The Aureilhan Mimizan pond comprises a wetland area, similar to a marsh, where remarkable flora and fauna can be discovered by canoeing on the lake and its current. You can also try out a Hawaiian outrigger canoe for a unique and unforgettable experience on the water.

For those who enjoy a stroll, head out onto the Promenade Fleurie (Flowered Walk), where the town of Mimizan has planted 500 species of flowers and plants for everyone to enjoy year-round. The discovery trail offers beautiful views of the lake. In about 3.5 hours, you can also walk around Lake Mimizan. The route passes through four different towns, covering 13 km, and is easy and well-marked.

Lake Leon

We continue further south in the Landes region. Lake Léon, roughly the same size as the previous one, covers 3.5 km^². It's a paradise for water sports and fishing. A very natural and unspoiled environment, where you'll discover a bucolic and unique spot: the Courant d'Huchet.

Two main beaches are located in the commune of Léon: Léon Beach and Lac à Vielle Beach. Cycling enthusiasts will find numerous bike paths for exploring the area around Lac de Léon.

Lake Soustons

Actually, we should be talking about THE LAKES of Soustons, because there are 5 of them!

The Port d'Albret Marine Lake is a little paradise for families. You can swim there or stroll along the 5 km paths, which are suitable for everyone, including scooters and rollerblades for children. Don't miss the chance to explore the island in the middle of the lake: Robinson Island !

To the south lies the small Pinsolle pond, with its eponymous golf course.

Lake Soustons is right next to the town. You can cycle along its shores, and also enjoy boating, but only with non-motorized boats for everyone's peace and quiet. If you're observant, you're likely to spot squirrels near Pointe des Vergnes, a calm and pleasant spot. Walk along the jetty, relax on a bench. Take the time to breathe in the fresh air!

The Étang Blanc, Étang d'Hardy, and Étang Noir (which is in the commune of Seignosse) form a small group of wetlands. People don't go there for swimming, but rather to observe the local flora and fauna.

Hossegor Lake

Hossegor's saltwater lake is a marine lake. It is fed by the Hossegor canal and the Boucarot channel. Its water level rises and falls with the ebb and flow of the water. Keep this in mind when planning your swimming and aquatic exploration trips.

The lake is close to the town and the beaches along the coast. There are 4 beaches on the lake:

• The Cork Oaks Beach ;
• The White Beach ;
• Rey Beach ;
• The Park Beach.

Lake Arjuzanx

Just because it's not on the coast doesn't mean you'll forget about it! Lake Arjuzanx and its Nature Reserve is a wetland teeming with birds, a delight for birdwatchers. You can also swim and enjoy water sports. You can walk around Lake Arjuzanx, an easy 7 km loop. While you're there, take the opportunity to explore Mont-de-Marsan, which is about 30 km away.

What is your favorite lake? You have all the information you need to plan your holiday in the Landes region and enjoy the great lakes.

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