Counting the waves…
Counting the waves…
You step off the Cours des Dames, cross the promenade, and there it is—a crescent of pale sand pressed between the working harbor and open ocean. The beach takes its name from the pleasure steamer that once docked nearby, and it retains that democratic spirit: office workers spread towels during lunch breaks, children build moats while grandparents watch from benches, and teenagers dive off the floating pontoons anchored just offshore. The water stays shallow for thirty meters, warming to a tolerable chill by mid-June, though locals insist only tourists bother checking the temperature. Behind you, the Tour de la Chaîne and Tour Saint-Nicolas frame the harbor entrance like limestone sentries. Gulls wheel overhead, diving for scraps near the fish market. By late afternoon, the beach empties slightly as sunbathers migrate toward the cafés lining the promenade, ordering plateaux de fruits de mer and watching kite-surfers carve lines across the bay. The smell of grilled sardines drifts from the port. This is not a postcard beach—no cliffs, no coves, no isolation. Instead, it offers something rarer: a place where the city swims. You wade in beside La Rochelle itself, the steeples and shutters rising directly from the sand, and when you've had enough salt, you're already home.
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Plage de la Concurrence.
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Yes, Plage de la Concurrence is generally safe for swimming and very family-friendly. The beach is sheltered within La Rochelle's bay, so waves are typically gentle compared to open Atlantic beaches. Lifeguards supervise during summer months (usually July and August), and the sandy bottom slopes gradually. The urban location means facilities including showers, toilets, and first aid are readily available. Water quality is regularly monitored. However, always swim within designated areas, respect flag warnings, and supervise children closely. Jellyfish can occasionally appear during warmer months, though this is uncommon in the protected bay.
The beach is pleasant from May through September, with July and August being warmest but most crowded. June and September offer excellent conditions with comfortable temperatures, fewer visitors, and easier parking. Early morning visits provide calm conditions and beautiful light for photography. Weekday visits are quieter than weekends year-round. The beach works well for a quick dip during city sightseeing trips. Check tide times, as low tide exposes more sand but can make the water quite shallow. Spring and autumn are ideal for beach walks combined with exploring La Rochelle's historic port and towers.
Plage de la Concurrence is easily accessible in central La Rochelle, located near the Port des Minimes marina. From the historic centre, it's about 2.5 kilometres and reachable by bus (line 10 stops nearby), bike via La Rochelle's excellent bike-share system, or a 30-minute walk along the waterfront. Parking is available at nearby lots, though spaces fill quickly in summer. The beach is well-signposted from the city centre. La Rochelle train station connects to major French cities; from the station, take a bus or taxi to the beach. The flat coastal path makes cycling the most enjoyable option.
The beach area and nearby Port des Minimes offer numerous restaurants, cafés, and snack bars serving fresh seafood, crêpes, ice cream, and casual meals. La Rochelle's historic centre, a short distance away, provides extensive dining from Michelin-starred restaurants to bistros specializing in regional cuisine and seafood platters. Accommodation ranges from beachside hotels and apartments near the port to charming hotels in the old town. Holiday rentals are plentiful. The Les Minimes neighbourhood has supermarkets for self-catering. Book early for summer visits, especially during the renowned Francofolies music festival in July when the city is particularly busy.
Plage de la Concurrence uniquely combines urban convenience with genuine beach appeal. You can swim, sunbathe, then walk to La Rochelle's medieval towers, renowned aquarium, and vibrant old port within minutes. The beach offers views across the bay toward Île de Ré and passing sailboats. It's one of the few French Atlantic beaches where you can genuinely combine cultural sightseeing with beach time without driving. The protected bay location means calmer, warmer water than exposed ocean beaches. Its central location and excellent facilities make it perfect for travellers who want both city exploration and seaside relaxation in one destination.
