Hotels in Arcachon

Arcachon Awaits: Embrace Coastal Serenity and Vibrant Nature

Nestled on the stunning Arcachon Bay in southwestern France, Arcachon is a charming seaside destination that captivates with its sandy beaches, vibrant marina, and lush natural parks. This picturesque town offers a delightful blend of relaxation and adventure, from sunbathing on the expansive shores to exploring the scenic walking trails. Visitors can indulge in fresh seafood, savor breathtaking views of the Dune du Pilat, and immerse themselves in the town's rich history. With its romantic ambiance and tranquil landscapes, Arcachon is the perfect getaway for those seeking both luxury and natural beauty. For the best hotel rates in Arcachon and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Arcachon

Some of the best places to stay in Arcachon are Biscarrosse, Lacanau-Ocean and Ville d’Hiver. Biscarrosse offers stunning beaches and water sports, making it ideal for adventure seekers. Lacanau-Ocean is renowned for its surf culture and vibrant nightlife, perfect for younger travelers. Ville d’Hiver showcases beautiful architecture and tranquility, appealing to those seeking a peaceful retreat. Accommodations range from chic boutique hotels to family-friendly resorts, with options for every budget. For first-time visitors, Lacanau-Ocean provides a lively atmosphere, ensuring a memorable introduction to the region. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Arcachon:

1. BiscarrosseOpens in a new window: Biscarrosse is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, featuring beautiful beaches, scenic lakes, and a vibrant golf course. The area is perfect for those who enjoy beach activities, romantic lakeside views, and outdoor sports. Popular hotels in Biscarrosse include Atlantis Hôtel Mimizan Les LandesOpens in a new window, which caters to business travelers and is pet-friendly, offering multiple meeting rooms and amenities for pets. Another option is Land'AzurOpens in a new window, also pet-friendly, ensuring a comfortable stay for animal lovers. For a cozy guesthouse experience, consider Le Domaine de PetiosseOpens in a new window, which welcomes pets and provides essential amenities.
2. Lacanau-OceanOpens in a new window: Lacanau-Ocean is renowned for its stunning beaches and outdoor recreational opportunities, making it ideal for adventure seekers and nature lovers. With attractions like Sud Beach and Ardilouse-Lacanau Golf, visitors are never short of activities. Hotel de FranceOpens in a new window offers a comfortable stay close to the beach, while Chambres D'hôtes 1001 NuitsOpens in a new window, a 3-star guesthouse, features adventure sports and vineyard experiences. For a charming stay, Villa Maya UmaOpens in a new window provides a delightful bed and breakfast experience with complimentary breakfast options.
3. Ville d’HiverOpens in a new window: Ville d’Hiver is a picturesque destination that offers breathtaking views of Arcachon Bay and easy access to beautiful beaches. It's perfect for families and adventure seekers looking to enjoy water sports and scenic hikes. Hôtel Le B d’Arcachon by Inwood HotelsOpens in a new window and Hôtel & Spa - Thalazur ArcachonOpens in a new window are both 4-star hotels with direct beach access and a variety of family-friendly amenities. They provide numerous adventure sport options, including surfing and hiking. Another great choice is Hôtel Point FranceOpens in a new window, which is also a 4-star hotel that caters to business travelers while still offering beach activities and a relaxed atmosphere.

What to do in Arcachon

Three days in Arcachon is ideal for immersing yourself in its stunning beaches, serene parks, and charming marina. Enjoy activities like boating, hiking, and swimming, or unwind at a spa. This picturesque destination offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, making it a must-visit for travelers. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Arcachon:

• Day 1: Start your exploration at Arcachon Bay, a stunning natural wonder where you can take in the picturesque views and perhaps enjoy a boat ride. After soaking in the beauty of the bay, head to Port Ostréïcole in Andernos-les-Bains. This charming port is known for its oyster farming, and you can indulge in fresh oysters at one of the local shacks. Conclude your day at Plage des Quinconces, a lovely beach that offers a relaxing atmosphere and beautiful sunset views, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.
• Day 2: Your day begins at Arcachon Beach, where you can bask in the sun or partake in water sports. Next, visit the iconic Lighthouse, which provides a fantastic vantage point of the coastline and surrounding area. To wrap up your day, spend some time at Plage de la Vigne, a serene beach ideal for a leisurely stroll or a sunset picnic, allowing you to truly embrace the coastal charm of Arcachon.
• Day 3: Kick off your day with a visit to the Dune of Pilat, the tallest sand dune in Europe. Climb to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding pine forests. Next, make your way to Le Phare du Cap Ferret, a historic lighthouse that offers stunning views and a glimpse into the region's maritime heritage. Finally, unwind at Cap Ferret Beach, where you can relax on the sand, swim in the warm waters, or enjoy a leisurely meal at a beachfront café, wrapping up your Arcachon adventure perfectly.

5 tips to find a great Arcachon hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Arcachon is during January, February, and November, when hotel rates are at their lowest. For international travelers, it's advisable to book your flight at least 5 months in advance to secure cheaper fares. To truly enjoy and explore the key attractions, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended. In Arcachon, you can visit the beautiful marina, unwind on the beach, and enjoy the scenic natural parks, making it a great value-for-money destination for those traveling on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Arcachon, you might find some enticing offers on Hotels.com. Head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section to explore discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. To enhance your chances of snagging a great deal, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, which can keep you informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions—helping you seize opportunities for savings!
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the location, star rating, and the season. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Arcachon.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Arcachon is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations farther from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like cars, bicycles, and trains to explore the area while likely saving on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Join Hotels.com's free One Key program and book your next stay in Arcachon. As a member, you can earn and use rewards points for hotel bookings. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various benefits like room upgrades when available, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up today.

What to eat in Arcachon

Here are some must-try dishes in Arcachon, Gironde, France:

• Oysters: Arcachon is renowned for its fresh oysters, particularly the fine de claire variety. These briny delicacies are usually served raw on the half shell, accompanied by a squeeze of lemon or a dash of mignonette sauce. Enjoying oysters at a seaside café while overlooking the bay is a quintessential Arcachon experience.
• Moules frites: This beloved dish of mussels and fries highlights the region's coastal bounty. The mussels are typically steamed in white wine with herbs and garlic, served alongside crispy fries. It's often enjoyed in a relaxed, communal setting, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists seeking a casual yet flavorful meal.
• Crème brûlée: A classic French dessert, crème brûlée in Arcachon often features local ingredients, adding a unique twist to the traditional recipe. The silky custard is topped with a caramelized sugar crust, providing a delightful contrast in texture. Sharing this dessert after a meal enhances the dining experience, as it invites conversation and indulgence.

Best time to go to Arcachon

Arcachon experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 46.6°F (8.1°C), while July and August are the hottest months, with an average temperature of 70.7°F (21.5°C). November tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Arcachon are April, July, and August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by dry to light rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.