Plage de Contis

Plage de Contis stretches for several kilometers along the Atlantic coast with fine sand and a gentle slope into the water. Dense cork oak and maritime pine forests back the shoreline, creating a natural border between beach and inland.

The settlement began as a fishing village in the 1800s and gradually transformed into a leisure destination following construction of the black and white spiral lighthouse. This transition reflected a shift from local fishing to beach tourism and recreation.

The International Film Festival of Contis happens every year near the beach, showing movies from around the world in the local cinema. It brings together movie lovers and attracts visitors from across the region.

The main swimming area has lifeguard supervision from June through September, with showers and toilets available near the beach. The beach also provides special access and facilities designed for visitors with mobility needs.

The lighthouse stands in the middle of pine forest rather than at the water's edge, making it the only working inland lighthouse in the local department. Its unusual placement was designed to help guide ships on the ocean from a different angle.

Location: Saint-Julien-en-Born

Address: Plage de Contis, 40170 Saint-Julien-en-Born, France

GPS coordinates: 44.09351,-1.32515

Latest update: December 14, 2025 20:21