Things To Do
in Saint-Jean-de-Monts
Saint-Jean-de-Monts is a charming seaside resort town located on the western coast of France. It is known for its long sandy beaches, perfect for sunbathing and water sports. The town offers a vibrant summer atmosphere with its shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Visitors can also explore the nearby marshland and salt marshes, providing a natural and serene setting for leisurely walks and birdwatching.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a walk along the beautiful beaches of Saint-Jean-de-Monts. Breathe in the fresh ocean air and enjoy the stunning views.
Visit the local market to sample regional delicacies and buy some souvenirs. Don't miss the chance to try some fresh seafood for lunch.
Relax at a beachside café as the sun sets over the Atlantic. Enjoy a delicious dinner while watching the waves.
Rent a bicycle and explore the scenic bike paths through the pine forests. The trails are well-marked and perfect for cyclists of all levels.
Stop for a picnic lunch at one of the many beautiful parks along the way. Take some time to relax and enjoy nature.
Conclude your day with a leisurely ride back to your accommodation. Enjoy a casual dinner at a local brasserie.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful sandy beaches ideal for sunbathing and water sports
- Rich natural surroundings including forests and dunes, perfect for hiking and biking
- Family-friendly atmosphere with numerous activities for children
- Pleasant climate, especially in the summer months
- Lively markets and local cuisine reflecting the culture of the Vendée region
- Can be crowded during peak tourist season
- Limited public transportation options, making it necessary to have a car
- Some amenities and services may be closed during the off-season
- Potential for high accommodation costs during the summer
- Fewer nightlife options compared to larger cities
Best Activities in Saint-Jean-de-Monts
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and beach volleyball on the sandy beaches of Saint-Jean-de-Monts.
Explore the scenic coastal paths and surrounding pine forests on a bicycle. Several bike rental services are available.
Venture into the nearby dunes and natural reserves for hiking trails with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Participate in various water sports including kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing, offered by local clubs.
Try your hand at fishing from the shore or join a fishing boat trip to catch local varieties.
Play a round of golf at the nearby golf course, which offers beautiful views and well-maintained greens.
Take guided nature walks to discover the rich biodiversity of the coastal region, including birdwatching opportunities.
Experience the region on horseback with guided tours through farmland and along the beach.
Tours
Uncover the best of Saint-Jean-de-Monts with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Saint-Jean-de-Monts
Visit one of these nice places.
This beach offers stunning views of the coastline and is perfect for capturing the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean.
These natural sand dunes provide a unique landscape and are ideal for photography, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
The wooden pier extends into the sea, offering panoramic views of the ocean and the surrounding beach, making it a picturesque spot for photos.
This coastal pathway boasts scenic ocean views and access to various lookout points, perfect for capturing the beauty of the region.
A local park that features a mix of wooded areas and large sandy expanses, providing diverse photo opportunities amidst nature.
Food in Saint-Jean-de-Monts
Saint-Jean-de-Monts Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sample a delightful selection of fresh seafood including oysters, mussels, and prawns at La Cayola, a popular seafood restaurant overlooking the beach.
Must-Try!
Indulge in Bar en Croûte de Sel (sea bass baked in a salt crust) at Le Sloï, a charming restaurant known for its innovative seafood dishes.
Treat yourself to Tourteau Fromager, a delectable local cheesecake, available at Boulangerie PĂątisserie Lucas, a renowned bakery in Saint-Jean-de-Monts.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Saint-Jean-de-Monts better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Don't miss the MarchĂ© des Halles, a vibrant indoor market where you can savor a variety of fresh produce, cheeses, and local delicacies. Additionally, explore the market's many stalls to discover regional street food offerings such as crĂȘpes and galettes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Saint-Jean-de-Monts, a friendly greeting goes a long way. Always greet people with a warm 'Bonjour' during the day or 'Bonsoir' in the evening. A smile and eye contact are also important in establishing rapport.
When dining, it is customary to keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) and to wait for the host to begin the meal. Saying 'Bon appĂ©tit' before starting to eat is considered polite. Also, donât rush through your meal; meals are often leisurely affairs.
The French often dress elegantly, even in casual settings. When visiting shops, restaurants, or public places, itâs respectful to wear neat, smart-casual clothing. Avoid overly casual attire like beachwear unless you are at the beach.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Saint-Jean-de-Monts with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Saint-Jean-de-Monts
Ensure a smooth experience
In Saint-Jean-de-Monts, as in much of France, tipping is not mandatory. Service charges are often included in the bill at restaurants and cafes. However, it is customary to leave small tips if the service was satisfactory, typically rounding up the bill or leaving a few coins. For exceptional service, leaving 5-10% of the bill as a tip is appreciated.
In Saint-Jean-de-Monts, payment methods widely accepted include cash and credit/debit cards. Many establishments, especially tourist-oriented ones, accept major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard. Contactless payments are also growing in popularity. While cash is still commonly used, especially in smaller shops and markets, it's advisable to carry a small amount of it for easier transactions in places that may not accept cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Saint-Jean-de-Monts.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a wonderful time to visit Saint-Jean-de-Monts as the weather warms up and flowers begin to bloom. Expect mild temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). This season is perfect for outdoor activities like biking and walking along the beach paths, as well as enjoying the local markets and events.
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Saint-Jean-de-Monts, with temperatures averaging between 20°C and 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Expect sunny weather, bustling beaches, and vibrant nightlife. This is the ideal time for swimming, sunbathing, and participating in various water sports and festivals.
Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) and a quieter atmosphere as tourists begin to dwindle. This season offers beautiful fall colors and is a great time for hiking and exploring the coastal landscapes without the summer crowds.
Winter (December to February) is the off-peak season, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 12°C (41°F to 54°F). Expect more rainy days and chilly winds, but also a peaceful experience with fewer visitors. This is a good time to enjoy local indoor attractions, explore nearby towns, and experience the festive holiday atmosphere.
Saint-Jean-de-Monts at Night
Hiking in Saint-Jean-de-Monts
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large coastal forest offering numerous trails for hiking, ideal for nature lovers looking to explore the diverse flora and fauna.
While primarily a beach destination, the trails along the coastline provide an opportunity for scenic hikes with views of the Atlantic Ocean.
A coastal path that runs through various towns and natural reserves, offering stunning ocean views and a chance to see local wildlife.
This area features a network of paths through marshlands, providing a unique landscape for hiking and birdwatching.
While a bit farther, this regional park offers extensive hiking trails through wetlands, moors, and forests, showcasing the natural beauty of the region.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Saint-Jean-de-Monts through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Saint-Jean-de-Monts by plane.
Located approximately 70 km from Saint-Jean-de-Monts, this is the closest major international airport, serving numerous domestic and international flights.
Situated about 95 km from Saint-Jean-de-Monts, this airport offers seasonal flights to various destinations in France and Europe.
Located approximately 185 km from Saint-Jean-de-Monts, this international airport serves as a hub for several airlines, with connections to numerous destinations.
About 215 km from Saint-Jean-de-Monts, this airport provides flights to domestic and some European destinations.
Located around 220 km away from Saint-Jean-de-Monts, this airport offers limited seasonal international flights and is mainly used for domestic travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population, many retirees attracted by the coastal lifestyle.
This group encompasses professionals and families, contributing to the local economy and community activities.
Includes high school and college students, often engaged in seasonal jobs, especially in the tourism sector.
Representing families with young children, this demographic influences local schools and community programs.
The Soul of Saint-Jean-de-Monts
Discover the essence of Saint-Jean-de-Monts through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Saint-Jean-de-Monts is known for its beautiful beaches and surf-friendly waves, making it a popular location for both beginners and experienced surfers.
With its sandy beaches, beach volleyball is a popular sport in Saint-Jean-de-Monts, attracting players and enthusiasts during the summer months.
The region offers numerous cycling paths and routes, making cycling a favored activity for both locals and tourists, allowing exploration of the local landscapes.
Fishing is a popular pastime in the area, with options for sea fishing as well as freshwater fishing in nearby rivers and lakes.
Saint-Jean-de-Monts boasts several golf courses and is a destination for golfers looking to enjoy the sport amidst beautiful scenery.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint-Jean-de-Monts.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Saint-Jean-de-Monts provide vegetarian and vegan options, with dishes prepared using locally sourced vegetables and ingredients. Le SloĂŻ and La Cayola are notable for their vegetarian and vegan-friendly offerings.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can explore gluten-free menu choices at Le Bistrot de l'Océan and Boulangerie Pùtisserie Lucas, where gluten-free pastries and bread are available.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Saint-Jean-de-Monts with these cultural adventures.
