Les Cinq Pineaux
Dramatic coastal rock formations and vibrant sunsets on the Vendée coast, with tidal pools perfect for exploration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Les Cinq Pineaux
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dramatic coastal rock formations and vibrant sunsets on the Vendée coast, with tidal pools perfect for exploration.
"Unmissable! The beach of the five Pineaux is superb, with a natural basin where children can play safely."
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the varied terrain of the coastal path and rocky areas.
🌅 Chase the Golden Hour
Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic light and stunning photographic opportunities.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Five Pineaux Rocks
Offshore
Five distinctive rocks jutting out into the open sea, creating a dramatic and picturesque seascape.
Tidal Rock Pools and Natural Basin
Beach at low tide
Discover vibrant marine life in shallow rock pools and a safe, natural basin perfect for children to play.
Vendée Coastal Path
Corniche Vendéenne
A scenic walk offering panoramic ocean views, connecting to other natural wonders along the coast.
Spectacular Sunsets
Beach and coastal path
Witness unforgettable sunsets painting the sky with vibrant colors over the Atlantic Ocean.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
+1Navigating the Coastal Path
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the varied terrain of the coastal path and rocky areas.
🌅 Chase the Golden Hour
Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic light and stunning photographic opportunities.
🌊 Check Tide Times
Low tide reveals fascinating rock pools and a natural basin, perfect for discovery.
🚗 Easy Road Parking
Finding parking near the beach is generally straightforward, making access convenient.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the varied terrain of the coastal path and rocky areas.
🌅 Chase the Golden Hour
Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic light and stunning photographic opportunities.
🌊 Check Tide Times
Low tide reveals fascinating rock pools and a natural basin, perfect for discovery.
🚗 Easy Road Parking
Finding parking near the beach is generally straightforward, making access convenient.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Bring your camera to photograph the unique rock formations and breathtaking ocean vistas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty of Les Cinq Pineaux, particularly its dramatic rock formations and breathtaking sunsets. The beach is praised for its coarse grain and the fascinating rock pools and natural basin revealed at low tide, making it a hit with families. Easy access and convenient facilities like toilets and a cafe enhance the experience.
"Beautiful coarse grain beach with lots of little rock pools for kids (and adults) to explore... see crabs and little fish. In low tide we found a handful of prawns to catch, but not many. Clean, with toilettes and a life guard, little café situated on the beach too. We found it easy to find road parking. Also in low tide a lovely little 'sea pool' to swim in which kids loved."
L R
"Unmissable!!! It's 5 rocks in the open sea called the 5 Pineaux. The beach of the five Pineaux is superb, it also has a small cove and at low tide a "natural basin" water reservoir where children can play in complete safety and discover multiple shells."
OSYA. FR
"Very nice to see! If you pass by, it's worth a look! Take a little stroll along the beach afterwards! A good time guaranteed!"
Stéphanie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Les Cinq Pineaux is located in Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez on the Vendée coast. It's accessible by car, with road parking available nearby. The coastal path also connects it to surrounding areas like Sion-sur-l'Océan and Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie.
While direct public transport to the exact spot might be limited, you can likely reach Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez or Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie by bus or train and then arrange local transport or enjoy a longer walk.
Yes, cycling is a great option along the Vendée coast. There are cycle paths that run along the Corniche Vendéenne, offering scenic routes to Les Cinq Pineaux.
Walking the coastal path is highly recommended for the best views and to discover hidden coves and other natural features like the Devil's Hole.
The location is generally well-signposted, especially if you are following the Corniche Vendéenne. Road parking is also available, making it relatively easy to locate.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Les Cinq Pineaux is a natural coastal attraction and is free to visit. There are no admission fees.
As a natural site, Les Cinq Pineaux is accessible at all times. However, the best experience for views and exploring rock pools is during daylight hours and at low tide.
The beach and the surrounding coastal area are public spaces, so there is no entrance fee.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions, but it's always advisable to respect the natural environment and follow any local guidelines for coastal areas.
While you can visit at night, it's not recommended for safety reasons due to the rocky terrain and potential for strong tides. The best experience is during daylight, especially for photography.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the unique rock formations, discover marine life in tidal rock pools, walk the scenic coastal path, and enjoy breathtaking sunsets.
Absolutely! Kids love exploring the rock pools and the natural basin at low tide, where they can safely discover shells and small sea creatures.
At low tide, you can spot small fish, crabs, and other marine invertebrates in the rock pools.
The area features a mix of sandy stretches and rocky outcrops, with the iconic 'Cinq Pineaux' rocks offshore.
Yes, there are toilets and a small cafe situated on the beach, offering convenience for visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography, creating stunning colors over the ocean and rocks.
You can capture seascapes, unique rock formations, tidal pools, coastal landscapes, and vibrant sunsets.
The entire coastal path offers excellent viewpoints. The area around the rocks themselves and the beach at low tide provide varied photographic opportunities.
Drone photography is possible, offering unique aerial perspectives of the coastline and the 'Cinq Pineaux' rocks. Always check local regulations regarding drone usage.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can capture details of the rocks and distant views. A tripod is useful for sunset and sunrise shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Easy road parking and the presence of toilets and a cafe on the beach add to the convenience for families. The coastal path, while offering stunning views, is also suitable for a stroller-friendly walk in many sections, allowing everyone to enjoy the scenery.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive coastal views and a tripod for those low-light conditions during golden hour. Exploring the tidal rock pools at low tide also offers unique macro photography subjects. Drone pilots can capture stunning aerial perspectives of the coastline and the 'Cinq Pineaux' rocks.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Coastal Wonders
+1The surrounding beach is a dynamic environment, particularly at low tide. As the water recedes, it reveals a fascinating world of rock pools teeming with small marine life like crabs and tiny fish. Many visitors, especially families, delight in discovering these miniature ecosystems. Furthermore, a unique natural basin forms at low tide, creating a safe and shallow 'sea pool' where children can play and explore without the risk of strong waves.
Beyond the immediate vicinity of the rocks, the coastal path offers a wonderful opportunity for exploration. This well-maintained path winds along the clifftops, providing panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged coastline. It connects Les Cinq Pineaux to other notable natural sites, such as the 'Devil's Hole' (Trou du Diable) and various sandy coves nestled between the rocky shores, making for a rewarding walk.
The Magic of Golden Hour
+1Many visitors specifically plan their trips to witness these spectacular sunsets. The unobstructed view of the horizon over the Atlantic Ocean makes for an incredibly romantic and memorable experience. Photographers flock to this spot to capture these breathtaking moments, with many Reels and posts dedicated to the stunning light.
+1Visiting during these times also offers the advantage of fewer crowds. While the area can attract visitors during peak daylight hours, the early morning and late evening tend to be more tranquil, allowing for a more peaceful appreciation of the natural beauty. It's the perfect time for a quiet stroll or a moment of reflection by the sea.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit