★ 2 · last edited Jun 29, 2020
Lacanau
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A renowned seaside resort and a must-visit for surf enthusiasts, both nationally and internationally.
Overview of Lacanau
The municipality of Lacanau consists of two distinct areas: Lacanau-ville, located inland on the edge of the lake of the same name, and Lacanau-Océan by the sea. The two are thirteen kilometres apart. Lacanau-Océan is internationally renowned for surfing. A summer resort built in the early 20th century, it also features some beautiful seaside villas from that era.
Lesser-known to the public, the municipality is also home to the Étang de Cousseau National Nature Reserve.
Key Facts
- Type de lieu: small town.
- Intérêt touristique: (worth seeing).
- Localisation: in Gironde, west of Bordeaux and just above Arcachon Basin.
- Distances: Arcachon (72 km), Bordeaux (46 km).
- Heure locale: .
- Population: 4,550 inhabitants (2014).
- Superficie: 214 km².
- Altitude: sea level.
- Site internet: http://www.mairie-lacanau.fr
History of Lacanau
What to See and Do in Lacanau
The main attractions are concentrated between lakes and sea.
Lake Coussau
This small lake, classified as a nature reserve, is located between Lake Hourtin-Carcans and Lake Lacanau. Its ecological value lies in its diverse natural habitats: pond, marshland, and wooded dunes. A marked trail allows you to walk around it.
This small lake, classified as a nature reserve, is located between Lake Hourtin-Carcans and Lake Lacanau. Its ecological value lies in its diverse natural habitats: pond, marshland, and wooded dunes. A marked trail allows you to walk around it.

Lacanau-Océan
Beaches and, above all, waves renowned among surfers, with the best competing every August in the "Lacanau-Pro". Beyond that, the resort, built in the early 20th century, also boasts some beautiful seaside villas from that era.
Beaches and, above all, waves renowned among surfers, with the best competing every August in the "Lacanau-Pro". Beyond that, the resort, built in the early 20th century, also boasts some beautiful seaside villas from that era.
In the Surrounding Area
Climate and Weather in Lacanau
Like the rest of the coast, the municipality has what is known as an Aquitaine oceanic climate. Winters are fairly mild thanks to the proximity of the ocean, and summers are warm (without being scorching). While rain is mostly present in winter, it can also occur throughout the year, including in summer in the form of storms.
Sea Temperature Throughout the Year
| Jan. | Feb. | Mar. | Apr. | May | Jun. | Jul. | Aug. | Sep. | Oct. | Nov. | Dec. | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lacanau | 11 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 16 | 18 | 20 | 18 | 17 | 14 | 12 |
Transport
Getting There
Getting Around
Accommodation
Eating Out
Useful Addresses
Further Information
Worth a look / Other
Lacanau-Océan
★★ Beaches and, above all, waves renowned among surfers, with the best competing every August in the "Lacanau-Pro". Beyond that, the resort…
Lake Coussau
★ This small lake, classified as a nature reserve, is located between Lake Hourtin-Carcans and Lake Lacanau. Its ecological value lies in its…
Lacanau Lake
★ It’s one of the large "Landes" lakes developed for relaxation and water sports.