What to do in Lacanau with your dog? My complete guide

Living in Lacanau with a dog is pretty easy. Scott and I have been living here for a while now. Between the ocean, the lake, and miles of forest, there's enough space to walk for hours without ever taking the same route. Over time, I've found my routines, my favorite spots, and my go-to places where Scott is always welcome.

If you're planning your vacation in Lacanau with your dog, this article should be helpful.

 

 

🏖️ The beaches

In winter, I start every day on the beach.

Before work, I go for a walk with Scott. I start from Plage Sud (South Beach), walk to the end of Super Sud, then return via the Route du Lion to alternate between the ocean and the paths through the pine trees.

I always go very early to watch the sunrise. We never run into anyone, and the first footprints in the sand are ours. At that time, the landscapes are almost otherworldly. There's the sea, the sand, the dunes, and that sky gradually changing from pink to blue. I've lived in Lacanau for a while now, and yet I still never tire of it.

In summer, habits change. Dogs are no longer allowed on supervised beaches. For my part, I either go before 8 AM or I start my walk after Super Sud. There's hardly anyone there, and the presence of dogs is generally tolerated.

 

 

🌲 Forest walks

Even though Lacanau is mostly known for its beaches, I spend just as much time in the forest.

I often go towards Route du Lion. You can follow the paved paths towards Le Porge or take the sandy trails that lead back to Lacanau-Ville. Both are very pleasant and allow for varied walks.

If you come by car, you can park for free at the Plage Sud car park. There are also several wooden picnic tables in the forest. I often go there on Sundays before taking a long walk with Scott.

In winter, you don't encounter anyone for hours. In summer, the cicadas sing constantly, and the atmosphere is completely different. If you come between November and March, remember to check the hunting calendar before you go. Also, be careful of processionary caterpillars. In summer, it's more the ticks and bikes that require a bit more vigilance.

 

 

🌿 The Étang de Cousseau Nature Reserve

If you're staying a few days in Lacanau, I recommend setting aside a few hours to discover the Étang de Cousseau Nature Reserve.

The walk starts at the reserve's parking lot, in the place called Marmande. It's a little over 7 km round trip. The trail is easy, and dogs are allowed, provided they are kept on a leash.

I go there all year round. In winter, I like to go there to observe the migratory birds. In summer, it's the dragonflies and birds that catch my attention. If you're lucky, you might also spot the buffaloes that live in the reserve.

If you have a pair of binoculars, bring them. You'll enjoy the walk much more.

 

 

The lake

I recommend Longarisse. Moutchic is much better known, but the beach is small and dogs are not allowed there. In Longarisse, there's much more space, and the area has remained quite preserved from tourism.

I like to go there in the summer when Lacanau starts to get busy. It's a little haven of tranquility amidst the summer hustle and bustle.

During periods of high heat, remember to check the water quality before you go. Cyanobacteria can develop some weeks and be dangerous for your four-legged companion.

 

 

☕ Restaurants

All cafes and restaurants in Lacanau accept dogs. So, this section will mostly be dedicated to dog parents.

Scott comes everywhere with me. I have my usual spots, places where he gets a bowl of water before I've even ordered, and places where I know both I'll eat well and he'll be comfortable.

Bronzette

This is the restaurant I go to most often. At lunchtime, they offer brunches that are among my favorites in Lacanau. All dishes are available in a vegetarian version. I love their savory waffles, and their pancakes are to die for. The portions are very generous, the products are fresh, and the prices remain very reasonable. Expect to pay less than €20 for a hearty brunch.

In the evening, the menu changes completely and makes way for burgers, which are delicious.

Almamia

If you're craving a real Neapolitan pizza, this is the place to go.

The indoor terrace is magnificent, the decor is modern, with noble materials, and very successful, and even in the middle of summer, you're away from the hustle and bustle of central Lacanau.

I almost always order the Tartufo. I can't tell you how many times I've eaten it, but I never get tired of it.

Bavard

A beautiful sunny terrace, fresh dishes, sharing starters with a Mediterranean inspiration, and well-filled sandwiches.

Special mention for the guacamole, perfectly seasoned, and the vegetarian sandwich. Two good reasons to go back.

Le bistrot des cochons

I like their street-side terrace as much as their indoor terrace, which is much more intimate and fully shaded.

Here, you come to share tapas over a glass of wine. Although the name might not suggest it, the menu also offers several vegetarian options.

Everything is fresh, everything is good, and the concept is super friendly. Special mention to the service, always warm. You go there for a drink... and you often end up spending the whole evening there.

My little tip

One evening, get takeout from Bronzette, Almamia, or Le bistrot des cochons. Go set up on the beach with your dinner and wait for the sun to set. I often do this in the summer, and I find it even nicer than a restaurant.

 

 

 

 

🍹 Having a drink

 

Le Rainbow

A little slice of paradise located at the Plage Sud lifeguard station.

The terrace, at the top of the dune, offers one of the most beautiful views of the ocean in Lacanau. I like to go there at the end of the day to watch the last surfers, order a drink, and wait for the sunset.

Here, you also have to eat something (license requirement), but it's really not a constraint. The tapas are delicious. Special mention for the aïoli, which I order every time.

Le Sunset

The Sunset is somewhat of an institution in Lacanau.

The terrace overlooks Plage Centrale. I like to go there after a few hours at the beach to have a drink, share some tapas, and watch the surfers doing their turns.

Special mention to the fried seafood, gyozas, and grilled squid tentacles. On Sundays, they also offer a brunch right on the sand.

Throughout the summer, the Sunset hosts DJ sets. If you come for one of these evenings, leave your dog at home because it's not the best for their ears.

Le Bar panoramique

Le Bar Panoramique is one of the few places I go to all year round.

There's no terrace here. Everything happens indoors, facing the ocean. The large bay windows offer an incredible view of the beach and waves. In winter, I love going there when the ocean is wild. The spectacle is completely different from summer.

The place is a bit fancier than the other spots in this article. You can come for a cocktail, a good glass of wine, or to share a few plates. I also love the playlist, which is always very well chosen.

Le Mulligan

Le Mulligan is somewhat of a surfers' and locals' hangout.

Here, no fuss. The terrace is right in front of Plage Centrale. You share a corner of a table, chat with your neighbors, have a few beers, and listen to the playlist.

The evening often ends with a game of darts or on the dance floor before continuing elsewhere.

Dogs are welcome. However, I always prefer to take Scott home before 10 PM. After that, the terrace is full, the music gets loud, and he's much better off at home.

 

🏨 Where to stay with your dog?

 

La Baignoire

If you want to treat yourself, I recommend La Baignoire.

The hotel is located on Lacanau's golf course. I love the decor, very 70s-inspired, and the pool is truly stunning.

The Italian restaurant is very good. However, I don't recommend the tapas. I find them quite expensive and the portions are very small.

They also regularly organize comedy clubs, dance parties, and other events.

 

Pierre & Vacances Résidence Bleu Marine

If you prefer an apartment to a hotel, this is a very good option.

The residence is located directly opposite Plage Sud. You can reach the center of Lacanau on foot in a few minutes, while still enjoying peace and quiet.

The apartments are quite small but functional, and the residence has a swimming pool.

Another advantage: the Route du Lion is accessible on foot. It's an excellent starting point for walking in the forest with your dog.

 

 

 

🐶 What I always bring with Scott

When I go out with Scott for several hours, there are a few essentials that never leave my bag.

• A water bottle and a collapsible bowl.
• Bags to pick up after him.
• A towel. Between the ocean, the lake, and puddles, it's useful on every outing.
• Some treats.
• His Soré bandana to be stylish in any situation.
• A ball that he usually abandons after ten minutes.
  

 

⚠️ What you need to know before coming

• Dogs are welcome in most cafes, restaurants, and accommodations in Lacanau. I've never had any difficulty taking Scott with me.
• In summer, be careful of the heat. Sand and asphalt quickly become scorching for their paw pads. Opt for walks early in the morning or late in the day, and remember to always carry water with you.
• Supervised beaches do not allow dogs between early May and late September. 
• In the forest, in winter, remember to check the hunting calendar before you go. You will also encounter processionary caterpillars during this period. In summer, be more careful of ticks.

 

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FAQ

Are dogs allowed on the beaches of Lacanau?

Between early May and late September, dogs are not allowed on supervised beaches.

In practice, many people walk them very early in the morning, before 8 AM. This is also what I do with Scott. If I want a walk later in the day, I start after Super Sud. The further away you get from supervised beaches, the fewer people there are, and the presence of dogs is generally tolerated.

Where to walk your dog in Lacanau?

If I had to choose, I'd say Plage Sud and Super Sud, the forest around Route du Lion, Lacanau Lake, and the Cousseau Pond Nature Reserve. Depending on the season, I alternate between these different spots.

Can you go to the lake with a dog?

Yes. It's actually a very good alternative to the ocean, especially in summer. The water is calm, there's plenty of shade, and several spots where dogs can swim.

Which restaurants in Lacanau accept dogs?

I've never had a problem taking Scott to a restaurant. Most terraces accept dogs. My favorite spots are Bronzette, Almamia, Le Foncky Shelter, Le Dahlia, and Le Bistrot des Cochons.

Where to have a drink with your dog in Lacanau?

Again, you'll be spoiled for choice. I particularly like Rainbow, Sunset, Bar Panoramique, and Mulligan.

Where to stay in Lacanau with your dog?

Several accommodations accept dogs, notably La Baignoire and the Pierre & Vacances Bleu Marine residence. Just remember to check the reception conditions when booking.

Are dogs allowed in the Cousseau Pond Nature Reserve?

Yes, provided they are kept on a leash throughout the walk.

 

 

Vacations also require preparation before you leave.

Discover everything I pack in my suitcase for a sunny vacation and the essentials I never forget.