On Île de Ré, you can enjoy the sun and the ocean without a swimsuit, but not just anywhere: naturism is only permitted on specific sections of the beach, as defined by municipal ordinance and marked on-site. Before you lay out your towel, here’s a rundown of the areas involved, the rules you need to know, and the best practices to follow. This will help you plan a stress-free stay at a campsite on Île de Ré and enjoy the island at your own pace, while respecting the surroundings and other vacationers.
Key points to remember
- Where: Naturism is permitted in only four areas, including Peu Bernard Beach, which straddles La Couarde-sur-Mer and Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré, around the Pas de la Batterie.
- Rules: This activity is regulated by a municipal ordinance and is limited to areas marked by signs at the beginning and end of each section.
- Elsewhere: Naturism is prohibited on the island’s other beaches, including those in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré, Saint-Martin-de-Ré, La Flotte, Ars-en-Ré, and Loix.
- Access: These areas can be reached on foot from the beach access paths, often at the end of dune trails; be sure to bring water and sunscreen, as there are no shops on site.
Beaches on the Île de Ré where naturism is tolerated
Contrary to popular belief, Île de Ré does not have a large beach that is entirely for naturists. Naturism is simply tolerated on designated sections, each defined by the relevant municipality. The best-known area—and the one closest to our campsite—is Peu Bernard Beach, also known locally as “la Batterie” in reference to Pas de la Batterie. It stretches for about 200 meters through a preserved dune landscape, between Follies Beach and the Pas de la Batterie.
Three other areas round out the list for the entire island. The table below summarizes the permitted areas according to the Destination Île de Ré tourist office.
| Beach | Municipality | Good to Know |
|---|---|---|
| Peu Bernard (Batterie area) | La Couarde-sur-Mer & Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré | Approximately 200 m is permitted around the Pas de la Batterie, marked by signs; dune setting, the beach closest to the campsite. |
| Sablanceaux (to the right of the battery) | Rivedoux-Plage | About 150 m away, a more rugged stretch facing the ocean, prized for its tranquility. |
| Couny | Saint-Clément-des-Baleines & Les Portes-en-Ré | East of La Conche des Baleines, a secluded beach with a wild, unspoiled feel. |
Everywhere else, swimsuits are required. If you’re a naturist, please stay within the designated areas and avoid going to the neighboring beaches on Île de Ré, especially those popular with families, such as Petit Sergent Beach.
Our Tips for Practicing with Respect
Naturism on the island is based above all on respect: for the surroundings, the environment, and fellow vacationers. A few simple habits allow everyone to enjoy the beach in peace.
- Look for the signs: the signs indicate the beginning and end of the designated area. Park within this area—never next to it.
- Keep a low profile: naturism is practiced with modesty, away from heavily trafficked areas.
- Protect the dunes: the vegetation along these beaches is fragile. Stay on the marked trails and take your trash with you.
- Think of families: these areas remain accessible to everyone, in a spirit of sharing and mutual respect.
- Be prepared for the sun and the tides: sunscreen, water, and a hat are essential; check the tide tables, as these exposed beaches shrink significantly at high tide.
Naturism is about respecting the environment and others: stay within the designated areas and be considerate, so that everyone can enjoy the beach in peace.
Pierre Schmitz
A family-friendly base camp just a stone’s throw from the beaches
Our campsite is not a naturist resort: it is a 4-star, family-friendly campsite on the Île de Ré, located in La Couarde-sur-Mer, 600 meters from Les Prises Beach. It’s the perfect base for exploring the island: the Peu Bernard naturist area, bike paths, markets, and villages are all easily accessible by bike or car. Spacious campsites, fully equipped mobile homes, or glamping accommodations: choose the option that suits you best, then set out to explore the beaches at your own pace.
