Plage naturiste
Saumonards naturist beach in Saint-Georges-d'Oléron: fine sand, protected forest, view of Fort Boyard, family friendly.
- View of Fort Boyard
- Protected forest right behind
- Fine sand over 400 to 500 meters
- Easy access by bike
- Family and couple friendly
- Address
- Plage des Saumonards
17190 Saint-Georges-d'Oléron, Charente-Maritime
A naturist beach on the north of the island
Saumonards beach is one of the three official naturist beaches on Île d'Oléron, and it's the only one of the three set up on the north side. It stretches over an area of about 400 to 500 meters of fine sand, managed by the town of Saint-Georges-d'Oléron.
Unlike some more low-key naturist spots, this one is clearly marked and well attended, which reassures newcomers who are still hesitating to take the plunge.
Between forest and ocean
What strikes you here is the setting. The beach is bordered by the Forêt des Saumonards, a protected wooded area that offers shade and a gentle transition between the sand and the pines.
On the sea side, the view stretches far: Fort Boyard stands out on the horizon, with Île d'Aix in the background. A panorama that's a nice change from the more classic beaches of the Atlantic coast, and one that often comes up in visitors' comments.
Families, couples and regulars
The atmosphere is described as family friendly, far from the sometimes caricatured image of naturism. You'll come across as many couples as families, in a relaxed and respectful atmosphere.
The beach is regularly praised for being clean and well kept, a point that comes up in most online reviews, alongside appreciation for the natural setting and the easy access.
How to get there
One of the perks of this spot is its network of cycling paths, which makes it easy to reach the other beaches of Saint-Georges-d'Oléron. Handy for switching spots in the same day without having to get back in the car each time.
Access to the beach itself is considered simple, with no particular hassle for settling in with kids or gear.
What to take away
With more than a hundred and thirty positive reviews recorded online, Les Saumonards stands out as a reference among the naturist spots on the island. The combo of protected forest and a view of Fort Boyard clearly makes the difference compared to other beaches on the Charente coast.
If you're looking for a first naturist experience in a welcoming, well kept setting, or simply a beautiful stretch of fine sand away from the textile crowd, this one ticks the right boxes.
Source: OpenStreetMap and its contributors (ODbL licence). See on OpenStreetMap.