Mimbeau beach, Sandy beach in Lège-Cap-Ferret, France
Mimbeau is a sandy spit about 800 meters long on the eastern shore of the Cap Ferret peninsula that creates a sheltered bay. The structure curves along the coastline and frames a shallow water zone that changes with the tides.
The sand formation developed around 1880 through natural coastal drift and continued to grow until 1950, when rock walls were built to stop erosion. These structures remain in place as part of coastal management today.
The name honours a local oysterman whose work shaped the character of this place in the 19th century. Today oyster farming remains a defining feature that you see across the bay.
The beach is accessible year-round, with the most comfortable months being May to October when weather is stable. Be aware that overnight boating is not permitted and water levels change significantly with the tides.
Severe winter storms in 2013 and 2014 tore gaps in the sand spit, forcing immediate repair work to protect the structure. These events highlight how fragile coastal features can be and how active maintenance keeps it stable.
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