The Côte de Lumière... Its name alone is enough to make us want to visit Saint-Jean-de-Monts. Answering this call as irresistible as that of the sirens, we plunge with delight not into the Atlantic, but into the 11 must-do things to do in Saint-Jean-de-Monts. Beneath its apparent simplicity, the town is a real favorite for a great vacation in France. A little nugget nestled in the heart of the Vendée, this adorable coastal town is the perfect place to discover its beaches and exceptional heritage.
1. Laze on the beaches of Saint-Jean-de-Monts
The Vendée, with its beaches and family outings, invites you to let go. And there's nothing like the beautiful beaches of Saint-Jean-de-Monts! And there are plenty of them, with no fewer than 9 beaches welcoming Vendéans and visitors to the Atlantic coast. From the liveliest beaches to the most secluded stretches of sand, the choice is vast. If you like beaches that are easily accessible to families and close to amenities, head for :
- plage des Demoiselles,
- plage des Oiseaux,
- plage de la Baigneuse.
Further north, you'll find a mix of wild landscapes and urban life at :
- estacade beach,
- base Nautique beach,
- plage du Golf.
Prefer a more secluded spot? That's also possible at :
- la Davière beach,
- parée du Jonc beach,
- plage des Tonnelles.
Accessible via forest paths, they promise pure moments of tranquillity in the heart of nature.
2. Oceabul, a water park for the whole family
The Vendée region is the ideal place to go on vacation with children, as it's full of good addresses. Among them is Oceabul, the aquatic center in Saint-Jean-de-Monts. Much more than just a swimming pool, the complex is a delight for young and old alike, of all generations, thanks to its many facilities:
- fun water games for children,
- swim against the current,
- swan-neck waterfall,
- balneotherapy pool with bubble bench.
This is complemented by a large 25-metre sports pool, divided into four lanes. Enough to spend a few relaxing hours with your family, overlooking the sea!
3. Horseback riding on the beach
Have you ever seen beautiful horses trotting along the beach on TV? Make the dream come true by booking a horseback ride on the beach. The same type of outing is also possible in the national forest of Saint-Jean-de-Monts. Suitable for children and parents alike, this is a great way to spend a day in contact with animals and nature. Weekly pony riding courses are also available for children. Accompanied by a qualified instructor, you'll enjoy the view thanks to a ride adapted to your level. What a pleasure!
4. Explora Parc, a paradise for young and old alike
The whole family heads forExplora Parc, a vast outdoor leisure area in the heart of the Saint-Jean-de-Monts pine forest. The list of pleasures is long, with something for everyone:
- accrobranche courses for all levels,
- outdoorescape game,
- trampoline in the nets,
- archery,
- virtual reality games,
- laser tag.
Some activities are open to children as young as 3, so everyone can have plenty of fun. Enough to spend a full day at leisure, without having to leave your vacation destination!
5. Saint-Jean-Baptiste church, a cultural visit
Head to the heart of the town to admire the Saint-Jean-Baptiste church, located (appropriately enough) on Place de l'église. Surrounded by shops, restaurants and bars, it's perfect for a leisurely shopping stroll. The same square also hosts a variety of events, such as flea markets and concerts. Originally built in the XIIᵉ century as a chapel, the church was later destroyed during the Vendée wars, then renovated several times until the XXᵉ century. Inside, we invite you to discover a beautiful canopied altar, as well as a XVᵉ century monstrance, bearing witness to its rich historical past.
Good to know: the little tourist train departs from the church in high season.
6. Saint-Jean-de-Monts markets
Strolling through the seaside markets is one of the favorite activities of French holidaymakers. Well, you're in for a treat in Saint-Jean-de-Monts! The town boasts five markets of all kinds:
- The place Jean Yole marketwednesday and Saturday mornings.
- The downtown covered market, Wednesday and Saturday mornings, all year round.
- The Demoiselles summer market, food and non-food, Mondays and Thursdays in summer.
- The Plage covered market, every morning from late June to early September.
- The summer night market, every evening in July and August, from 7pm to midnight.
From food products to decorative items and souvenirs, you're sure to find plenty of bargains!
7. Mini-golf and go-karting in Saint-Jean-de-Monts
Join us at Le Marais mini-golf for another fun-filled family activity. Two child-friendly areas are available. The first takes place alongside Lucky Luke and the Dalton, while the other lets you discover the animals of the marsh. Equipped with golf clubs adapted to your size, you're off for 18 holes of pure fun!
The adventure continues at Kart'One karting in Saint-Jean-de-Monts, where some circuits are suitable for children aged 3 and over. Other options allow you to have fun with teenagers or adults, so you can get the most out of your vacations.
8. Stroll through the Saint-Jean-de-Monts state forest
Get your fill of fresh air in the state forest of Pays de Monts, a haven of peace ideal for walking, cycling or horse riding. Hundreds of hectares are available for (very quiet!) walks among maritime pines and other arbutus trees. Here, you simply take your time. Time to stroll, to admire the surrounding flora and fauna, to watch a heron quench its thirst... With this impression of a moment out of time, you continue your walk on the Sentier de la Vigie. The reward is a beautiful panorama of the marsh and forest below.
9. The Ferris wheel, panoramic view of the Côte de Lumière
Back to the Esplanade de la Mer, not far from Oceabul, to enjoy a panoramic view from the Ferris Wheel, which opens every summer. At a height of 40 metres, you can enjoy an incredible view of the horizon, including the island of Yeu. Doesn't that make you want to visit it too, during your stay?
This romantic activity can be made even more so if you book the VIP cabin, complete with champagne.
10. Water sports on the ocean
Relaxing on the beach is all very well. But if you can also have fun on the waves of the Atlantic, it's even better! From kitesurfing to sand yachting, paddleboarding to bodyboarding, there's something for everyone. Just head for the Base Nautique, where all Saint-Jean-de-Monts' water sports activities are grouped together. In a more leisurely style, you can also book a boat trip. All you have to do is enjoy the Monts landscape!
11. Cycling routes in Saint-Jean-de-Monts
To discover the coast, the forest or simply to take a stroll along the cycle path, get on your bike! Three cycling circuits have been set up for greener, softer tourism:
- La Boucle Coquillages et Pommes de pins.
- Le Circuit du Marais.
- The Forest Mountain Bike Trail.
From the forest to the marshes, you'll discover the town and its surroundings in a whole new way. A bike ride means taking the time to admire the surroundings, to take your time, while covering a vast territory. With friends or family, it's a must-do activity in Saint-Jean-de-Monts!
Where to stay in Saint-Jean-de-Monts?
The advantage of a small seaside town is that it's easy to find quiet hotels. Some even offer a view of the beach, to boot!
- The most complete
Enjoy the comforts of Le Robinson hotel, whose comfortable rooms are matched only by the quality of its cuisine. For an affordable price, you can also enjoy a swimming pool with Jacuzzi. An ultra-complete establishment to be booked here in just a few clicks.
- The most zen
Treat yourself to an upscale stay focused on relaxation atHôtel Valdys, linked to the thalasso center. Some luxury suites even have their own private spa, offering an even more personalized experience. Click here to discover this luxury hotel.
- The best location
Right in the heart of the seaside resort,Hôtel-restaurant L'Espadon welcomes you in a family atmosphere. The rooms are cosy and the cuisine excellent. Let yourself be seduced by the rooms with balcony, offering moments of rest perfectly suited to your vacation. Just click here to book your room.
Prefer fresh air? The good news is that the Atlantic coast is the perfect place to travel by motorhome in France! Nature lovers can also pitch their tent at a campsite. Vendée is reputed to be one of the top 5 destinations for camping. Tempted (no pun intended...)? Then check out the 10 must-visit campsites in the region.
What to do in Saint-Jean-de-Monts when it's raining?
If the rain is light, take the opportunity to discover Saint-Jean-de-Monts on the little train. Children will love it, and you'll be protected from the rain. Numerous craftspeople have also set up shop in the commune, opening their doors to visitors. From the Morgane jewelry workshop to the Petite Montoise model-maker, you're ready to encounter authentic craftsmanship.
Oceabul is also a good address in case of bad weather. The indoor pool complex offers all the activities you need for a great family day out! Travelling with friends or teenagers? Theescape game L'Échappée offers you a few moments of fun sheltered from the rain. Finally, take advantage of bad weather to relax at the Valdys thalasso center- you deserve it!
What to see and do around Saint-Jean-de-Monts
Located around half an hour from Saint-Jean-de-Monts, take advantage of your stay to visit the island of Noirmoutier. From the château-museum to the medieval gardens and salt marshes, the day promises to be full of surprises. Discover the 13 must-sees on the island of Noirmoutier, during this beautiful interlude near Saint-Jean-de-Monts.
The wild beauty of Sables-d'Olonne also seems to attract visitors, less than an hour from Saint-Jean-de-Monts. With these 17 must-see things to do in Sables-d'Olonne, you'll never be bored!
Finally, devote a day of your vacation to visiting Nantes, the region's exciting historic city. Discover the 15 must-sees in Nantes, so you don't miss out on any of its wonders. Better still, plan to visit Nantes in two days, so you can take your time.
Enjoyed the wild coastline of Saint-Jean-de-Monts? Continue your discovery of the region with these 13 must-sees in Vendée: you won't be disappointed. The beach and the many activities on offer make this coastal town a popular destination for families. Here, we take our time... to do nothing, and that's great! Between two moments of relaxation, a walk, horseback ride or bike ride completes your stay, as do some great leisure activities. Welcome to the Vendée!
Tempted by our selection? Take a look at our train fares and book now!
