Serpent d’océan
A colossal 130m aluminum sea serpent skeleton sculpture by Huang Yong Ping on a French beach.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See the full sculpture
Serpent d’océan
Best Time
See the full sculpture
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A colossal 130m aluminum sea serpent skeleton sculpture by Huang Yong Ping on a French beach.
"It is an impressive sculpture. Makes sure you visit it at low tide to get the full effect."
🎯 Check Tide Times
Visit during low tide for the best views and photo ops of the Serpent d'Océan.
📍 Correct Location
It's in Saint-Brevin-les-Pins, not Nantes. Allow for travel time!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Serpent's Full Length
Saint-Brevin-les-Pins beach
Marvel at the 130-meter-long aluminum skeleton of a prehistoric sea serpent, a striking contemporary art piece.
Low Tide Reveal
Intertidal zone
Witness the sculpture emerge from the water at low tide, creating a dramatic and immersive visual experience.
Artistic Vision
Beach promenade
Appreciate the avant-garde work of Chinese artist Huang Yong Ping, inspired by ancient Chinese mythology.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything: Low Tide is Key
Location Clarity: Not in Nantes!
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Tide Times
Visit during low tide for the best views and photo ops of the Serpent d'Océan.
📍 Correct Location
It's in Saint-Brevin-les-Pins, not Nantes. Allow for travel time!
📸 Photography Angles
Explore various angles from the beach, sea wall, and lookout platform for stunning shots.
🚶♀️ Easy Town Access
The sculpture is a pleasant walk from the town center, perfect for a stroll.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Tide Times
Visit during low tide for the best views and photo ops of the Serpent d'Océan.
📍 Correct Location
It's in Saint-Brevin-les-Pins, not Nantes. Allow for travel time!
📸 Photography Angles
Explore various angles from the beach, sea wall, and lookout platform for stunning shots.
🚶♀️ Easy Town Access
The sculpture is a pleasant walk from the town center, perfect for a stroll.
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking is generally available nearby, but can be busy during peak times.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Serpent d'Océan an impressive and unique art installation, particularly when viewed at low tide. While some acknowledge it's 'what it is,' many appreciate its scale and artistic merit, making it a worthwhile stop for photographers and art enthusiasts. The location on the beach and proximity to town are also noted positives.
"It is what it is, we took van down qnd stayed the night.
Great little spot.
Nice easy walk to the town."
Ian Nicol
"It is an impressive sculpture. Makes sure you visit it at low tide to get the full effect."
Motorhome Quest
"Great place. Worthy to stop by and enjoy it."
Nathalie HO
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Serpent d'Océan is located on the beach in Saint-Brevin-les-Pins, France. It's approximately a 1-hour drive from Nantes. If driving, there is parking available near the beach.
No, the Serpent d'Océan is not in Nantes itself, but rather in the nearby coastal town of Saint-Brevin-les-Pins. Some sources may incorrectly list Nantes as the location.
Public transport options might be limited directly to the sculpture. It's often best accessed by car or as part of a day trip from Nantes. Check local bus schedules for routes to Saint-Brevin-les-Pins.
The most impactful way to experience the Serpent d'Océan is during low tide, when more of its structure is visible.
The beach promenade is generally accessible, but direct access to the sculpture on the sand might be challenging, especially at high tide. Assess conditions upon arrival.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Serpent d'Océan is an outdoor public art installation on the beach, and there is no admission fee to view it.
As it's an outdoor sculpture on the beach, it's accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best viewing experience.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Serpent d'Océan. It's a free public art installation.
For photography, aim for low tide to see more of the sculpture and sunset during high tide for dramatic lighting.
As it's a public beach, standard beach rules apply. Be mindful of the tides and the artwork itself.
📸 📸 Photography
The best times for photography are during low tide to see the full sculpture and during sunset when the light can create dramatic effects.
Yes, you can get great shots from the beach, the sea wall, and a lookout platform accessible by steps at either end of the sculpture's section of the beach.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the entire sculpture, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details. Any camera, including your phone, can capture stunning images.
Drone regulations vary by location. Check local rules and regulations for Saint-Brevin-les-Pins before flying a drone.
Try capturing the serpent interacting with the waves, or use the vastness of the beach to emphasize its scale. Silhouettes at sunset are also popular.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Saint-Brevin-les-Pins has several restaurants and cafes near the beach and town center, offering various dining options.
You can certainly have a picnic on the beach, but be sure to clean up after yourself and respect the environment.
You'll find typical French coastal cuisine, including seafood, crepes, and local specialties.
Depending on the season and local events, there might be temporary food stalls or vendors near the beach. It's best to check locally upon arrival.
Prices are generally moderate, typical for a French seaside town. You can find options for various budgets.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring buckets and spades as the beach offers opportunities for sandcastle building. The nearby town of Saint-Brevin-les-Pins also has amenities like ice cream shops and playgrounds, making it a well-rounded family outing. Just be mindful of the tides and keep a close eye on children near the water.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Explore different angles from the beach, the sea wall, and the elevated lookout points. Wide-angle lenses are great for capturing the entire structure, while telephoto lenses can focus on specific details. The changing light throughout the day and the dynamic interaction with the sea ensure that no two visits will yield the same photographic results.
🚶♀️ Art & Culture Lovers
+1Take time to appreciate the artist's vision and the sculpture's integration into the natural landscape. Consider researching Huang Yong Ping's other works to gain a deeper understanding of his artistic philosophy. The location in Saint-Brevin-les-Pins also offers a glimpse into coastal French life.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art and Artist Behind the Serpent
+2Huang Yong Ping's work often draws inspiration from ancient Chinese culture, mythology, and philosophy, and the Serpent d'Océan is no exception. It evokes a sense of primal power and the enduring presence of mythical creatures in our collective imagination. The choice of an aluminum skeleton adds a stark, almost archaeological feel, as if this ancient being has been unearthed by the sea.
+1The sculpture's placement in the intertidal zone is crucial to its artistic impact. It appears to rise and sink with the ocean's tides, creating a dynamic and ever-changing spectacle. This interaction with the natural environment makes the Serpent d'Océan not just a static artwork, but a living part of the coastal landscape.
Experiencing the Serpent: Tides and Photography
For photographers, the interplay of light and water is key. Sunset during high tide can provide dramatic backdrops, with the waves lapping around the serpent's form. There are excellent vantage points from the beach itself, the adjacent sea wall, and a dedicated lookout platform accessible via steps. Experimenting with different angles and perspectives will yield the most compelling shots.
Remember that the sculpture is on a beach, so wear appropriate footwear, especially if you plan to walk around it. The experience is enhanced by being present during different tidal conditions to witness its transformation throughout the day.
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