Location
France
Status
Informal / Traditional
Suitable for
Families and adults
Terrain
Sand
Best season
June to September
About Plage des Casernes naturist area (Seignosse)
Plage des Casernes is the northernmost and wildest of Seignosse's Atlantic beaches on the Landes coast, between Hossegor and Le Penon to the south and the long undeveloped shore towards Vieux-Boucau to the north. It is a broad beach of pale sand backed by a high dune and the pine forest, with no buildings in sight, and it is best known as a surf spot with schools operating in summer. A zone used for nude sunbathing lies about 400 m north of the lifeguard post, beyond the supervised bathing area. Swimming is not permitted in the naturist zone: the Landes coast has powerful currents and baïnes (shifting sandbank channels), so anyone who wants to swim should return to the flagged area in front of the lifeguard post. The naturist stretch is used by naturists and is also known as a gay meeting spot; the whole beach is quiet outside July and August. There is no shade, the wind can be strong, and the sand is hot in summer.
Getting there
Drive north through Seignosse to the Casernes beach; there is a free car park beyond the campsite, and from there a sandy path of about 500 m leads over the dune to the beach. Cycling is a good option on the Landes cycle network. At the beach, walk about 400 m north of the lifeguard post to the naturist zone. The dune crossing is soft sand and not suitable for wheelchairs.
What visitors say
Sources agree that Les Casernes is the least built-up beach in Seignosse and fairly quiet outside peak season. The naturist zone north of the lifeguard post is described as small and informal; one guide notes it is also a gay meeting spot, which some visitors find off-putting. Sources disagree on supervision of the wider beach, but all warn about strong currents. Visitors recommend bringing a windbreak and shade.
Summarised in our own words from public reviews and guides listed under Sources.
Amenities
Legal context
We found no municipal order designating the naturist zone; it is described by beach directories only, and the Landes tourist board does not mention it (checked 2026). Bathing is forbidden outside the supervised area, which includes the naturist zone. In France simple nudity is lawful only where it is authorised or customary; elsewhere it can be prosecuted as sexual exhibition (Code pénal art. 222-32) or breach a municipal order.
Naturism at Plage des Casernes naturist area (Seignosse) sits under France's rules for traditional tolerance — custom more than statute.
Full country law: France public nudity guide.
Researched 25 October 2026. No official source confirms naturist status, so treat it as unverified.
Location
View on interactive map
Approx. 43.7225, -1.4316
Visitor tips
- 1 Informal / tolerated site — be discreet and leave no drama.
- 2 Towel, water, sunscreen. Sit on your own towel.
- 3 No photos without clear consent.
- 4 Check access, tides, and parking before you go.
- 5 House rules and local custom can be stricter than the law.
More in France
Frequently asked questions
Where is the naturist zone at Plage des Casernes?
About 400 m north of the lifeguard post, beyond the supervised bathing area.
Can I swim in the naturist zone?
No. Bathing is forbidden there because of currents and baïnes; swim only between the flags near the lifeguard post.
Is there parking?
Yes, a free car park beyond the campsite, then about 500 m on foot over the dune.
Is it family friendly?
The naturist zone is small and informal and is also used as a gay meeting spot, so families usually stay on the main beach.
Sources
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
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