Ocean Winter: 8 Seaside Activities for Winter Holidays
In short: spa day, horse riding, cold-water swimming, sea wading, sand yachting, kite flying... here are 8 ideas for winter holidays by the sea, between relaxation and sport, far from crowded ski resorts. The beach in winter means almost empty landscapes and a big lungful of fresh air.
The essentials
| Activity | Mood | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Spa day (thalassotherapy) | Relaxing | Sea water and seaweed treatments, with a sea view |
| Horse riding | Relaxing | At low tide, on almost empty beaches |
| Beach walk | Relaxing | A refreshing lungful of sea air |
| Museums and aquariums | Rainy days | Perfect for keeping the family busy |
| Cold-water swimming | Sporty | Proper equipment, gradual exposure and a warm-up |
| Sea wading (longe-côte) | Sporty | Walking in water, with an instructor if you are a beginner |
| Sand yachting | Family | At low tide, when there is a little wind |
| Kite flying | Family | On the sand, with a bit of perseverance |
The mountains are the flagship destination for winter holidays, but they are not the only place with an idyllic setting in the heart of nature. Want to avoid crowded ski resorts? Leave the snowy peaks behind and escape to the seaside for a few days. But what is there to do on the beach in winter? Here are our ideas for relaxing and active holidays in your favourite seaside resort.
Seaside holidays under the sign of relaxation
In winter the seaside offers calm and almost empty landscapes: spa day, horse riding, walks or museums, for every pace.
Even if summer remains the best season to enjoy the beaches to the full, the seaside in winter brings total peace and helps you recharge your energy. Put together a relaxing programme and take the time to appreciate the beauty of the coast.
1. A spa day
For a total break, laze through a thalassotherapy day. Sea water, seaweed treatments... let the benefits of the ocean give you a moment of absolute relaxation, with a sea view on top.
2. Horse riding by the sea
Extend that feeling of wellbeing by discovering the coast on horseback. Low tide is the ideal time to saddle up, so keep an eye on your tide clock. Ride along almost empty beaches and marvel at the winter landscapes the ocean has to offer. If you do not mind the cold, dare a gallop with hooves in the water and wind in your hair, for a magical moment.
3. A walk along the beach
For the less adventurous, leave the horses at the stable and take a walk along the beach: a stroll suspended in time and a boost for your mood. Sea air has a reputation for doing the body and mind good. Open your lungs wide and enjoy this invigorating, stress-relieving breath of fresh air.
4. Museums and aquariums on rainy days
Rainy days ahead? Shelter in museums and learn more about the oceans and their creatures. Many coastal towns have sea-themed museums and aquariums, perfect for keeping the little ones busy.
If low temperatures make you shiver, wrap up well to enjoy the outdoor activities. The best tip to warm up: enjoy the local food.
The seaside, a destination that mixes sport and nature
Cold-water swimming and sea wading call for good equipment and caution, while sand yachting and kite flying suit families.
After relaxing, you may be tempted by more sporty activities. We will not lie to you: some of them are a little frosty. Keep a cool head and put on your wetsuit!
5. Cold-water swimming
A seaside holiday means a swim, even in winter! Cold-water swimming is known for stimulating circulation and helping you relax. If you are not used to it, go in gradually and warm up before diving into the waves. If you have any health concerns, ask a doctor for advice before you start. After your session, your body and mind will feel more relaxed than ever.
6. Sea wading (longe-côte)
If cold water does not scare you, try an original seaside activity: longe-côte, or sea wading. It is like hiking, but in water: a brisk walk in the sea along the beaches. Immersed above the waist, you work your muscles in an incredible setting.
Before a winter dip, it is essential to be properly equipped (wetsuit, boots, gloves...), to locate the nearest "blue path" (a sea trail dedicated to water walking), and to check the weather forecast (beware of offshore winds) and the tides. High and low tide are the best times for sea wading, but be careful with the ebbing tide. If you are a beginner, it is better to join a group led by an instructor.
For families, it is better to stay on the sand. Here are two beach activities that are full of fresh air.
7. Sand yachting
Do your children love speed? They will love sand yachting, and so will you. This gliding sport, practised at low tide beside the Atlantic Ocean, lets you enjoy the seaside differently when there is a little wind. After a lesson on how to drive the machine, set off on a thrilling race across the wide stretches of sand. Young and old will love being carried along by the wind.
8. Kite flying
To end your winter seaside holiday in style, become a kite master (or try to). Children will marvel at the colourful sails dancing in the sky. Take-off can be a little laborious, but try not to tangle the lines: with a bit of perseverance, you will get your kite flying.
Ready for an original winter holiday and to swap your skis for a wetsuit?
Keep an eye on the tide
Frequently asked questions
What is there to do on the beach in winter?
Spa day, horse riding, a walk on the sand, museums and aquariums, cold-water swimming, sea wading, sand yachting or kite flying: the seaside has activities for every pace.
What is longe-côte (sea wading)?
Longe-côte is a brisk walk practised in the water along beaches, immersed above the waist. It is usually done on a "blue path", a sea trail dedicated to water walking.
What precautions should you take for a winter swim?
Wear proper equipment (wetsuit, boots, gloves), warm up, go in gradually, check the weather and tides, and join a group led by an instructor if you are a beginner.
When should you go horse riding on the beach?
At low tide, when the beach is clear. A tide clock shows the right moment at a glance.
What can you do by the sea when it rains?
Visit the sea museums and aquariums that many coastal towns offer, or treat yourself to a spa day.
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