The large beach of Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie is one of the major assets of the seaside resort Vendée, on the Atlantic coast.
Covered with fine sand, it is 3.6 km long. A promenade-shaped embankment runs along the beach in its central part, dotted with cafes and restaurants.
Two dune ridges form the ends of the Grande Plage and are the starting point for pleasant hiking trails.
The beach, completely public and free, is monitored from late June to early September. It has comfort equipment (showers, toilets) and facilities for people with reduced mobility (special cabins, ramps, specific equipment for a safe swim). Information on +33 2 51 55 11 30.
To include the Grande Plage in a larger hiking trail, documentation and information at +33 2 51 55 03 66.
Finally, during Easter holidays, summer (July and August) and All Saints' Day, an antenna of the French surf school offers introductory or advanced courses. Five-day courses are also offered. Information on +33 2 51 60 11 11.