Discover the Summer City district

Arcachon’s summer district is located near the coast, between the Pierre Lataillade and Chapelle jetties. Arcachon is a very popular town, both with locals and visitors. Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, Arcachon has a wealth of landscapes to discover and activities to do. In this article, we’ll take you through the history of the Summer Town district and the emblematic places you can visit during your stay. With family, friends or on your own, discovering this district is ideal if you want to enjoy the sun and sea air !.

History of the Summer district

The summer district was created in the 19th century with the flourishing arrival of sea bathing. Much sought-after by the town’s hotels, restaurants and cafés, this is the part of Arcachon that could be described as the most “urbanized”. It boasts a number of buildings rich in history and with imposing structures, such as the Town Hall, built in 1858, and the Grand Théâtre d’Arcachon, more commonly known as the “Olympia”, which was built in 1874. Like the Winter Town district, the Summer Town district also boasts numerous villas. These villas, with their imposing, original architecture, are highly regarded in Arcachon and form part of the region’s heritage.

Must-see places in Arcachon’s summer district

The piers of the Summer City district

Located just opposite the Ville d’Eté district, the Thiers pier is Arcachon’s largest pier. When it was inaugurated in 1903, it was named “Nouvelle jetée”, and then “Thiers” when the first President of the 3rd Republic came to visit. Just before you cross the Thiers jetty bridge, you’ll find the famous 16 sailors’ footprints, representing the feet of local sailors. These men have marked the history of modern sailing since 1995, and to pay tribute to them, their feet have been molded and cast in bronze.

The Pierre Lataillade jetty, formerly known as the Eyrac jetty, is the oldest in Arcachon. When the town of Arcachon was founded, the seaside resort was heavily used by tourists, who had to take a boat to the jetty. Thanks to its success with fishermen, Arcachon became the leading fishing port in 1910. Today, you’ll find a magnificent carousel, ideal for children.

Outdoor activities

You can enjoy a wide range of activities in the heart of the Bassin. Starting with a bike ride along the esplanade. What better way to enjoy the sunshine and ocean views? You can also enjoy a spot of kayaking or windsurfing, or hire a boat to take you to Ile aux Oiseaux, for example.

Restaurants and cafés

The town of Arcachon is packed with restaurants and cafés, ideal for a gourmet break after your stroll through the Ville d’Eté district. You can sample the region’s specialties, such as the famous oysters and delicious seafood.

Places to visit in Summer Town

If you’re near the Thiers pier, you’ll be able to see a whale’s tail to the east, whose design changes every year. This sculpture was created by Emmanuel Janssens Casteels in 2011 and measures 9 meters. In order to preserve it, it is removed from the water every winter, and when spring arrives, it takes on new colors, much to the delight of its observers.

If you appreciate art or are simply curious, the town of Arcachon is offering visitors the “Les Voyageurs” exhibition. During the summer, 6 sculptures by artist Bruno Catalano, are featured near the Front-de-mer.

The Ville d’Eté district is famous for its covered market and its famous Place des Marquises. When the weather’s nice, you’ll find markets selling handicrafts, including night markets.

Another must-see is the Casino de la Plage, which has been in existence since 1903. Before that, it had an entirely different reputation, being known as Château Deganne. Built in 1853 by the man who bears his name, Adalbert Deganne, the château was modelled on the Château de Boursault. Its owner wanted to offer it to Napoleon III, but the latter refused, and it was eventually sold to become a casino. The Casino de la Plage is now Arcachon’s only casino, after the Mauresque casino in the Ville d’Hiver district burnt down.

When should you visit Arcachon’s Ville d’Eté district?

We advise you to visit the town in summer, during the summer months. The weather will be more pleasant for strolling along the esplanade and enjoying the coastal scenery. The summer months are quite hot, but with the sea air, you won’t risk suffering from extreme heat. Remember to book your accommodation in advance, as Arcachon is a very popular tourist destination in summer. If you’d like to take full advantage of the Bassin d’Arcachon and discover the surrounding area, our Les Ecureuils campsite will be delighted to welcome you to its beautiful campsite in Arès, just a few kilometers from Arcachon.