An inland sea of 150 km2, the Bay of Arcachon is ideal for swimming, sailing and pleasure-boating. It is also a natural habitat that is lovingly protected, the realm of the Arcachon oyster and a fabulous nature reserve for birds from all over northern Europe. Three natural wonders have become the emblem of the fascinating beauty of the Bay of Arcachon: the Pyla Dune, Arguin Sandbank and the Ile aux Oiseaux with its cabanes tchanquées – huts built on stilts above the level of the Bay of Arcachon sea that enable the oyster men of Arcachon to raise their produce.
Situated on the Atlantic coast of the Gironde and its prestigious wines (covering the entire range of red and white), one of the 5 départements of Aquitaine, the Bay of Arcachon offers fast connections to the French capital (via the Arcachon to Paris TGV), to the main European capitals and to the rest of the world. The inland sea takes its name, the Bay of Arcachon, from the town at the seaward entrance. In addition to Arcachon, the Bay houses the resorts of Cap Ferret, Arés, Andernos, La Teste de Buch and Pyla sur Mer – within easy reach of Arcachon.