You control your data

We and our business partners use technologies, including cookies, to collect information about you for various purposes, including: personalization of content and ads, analyzing our traffic, and providing access to social media features. By clicking 'ACCEPT ALL', you give your consent for all these purposes. You can read more about how we use cookies and other technologies and how we collect and process personal data by clicking the link.

Read more about cookies

Best Places to Swim in Bordeaux

Bordeaux is known for its wine, architecture, and riverside beauty, but in summer, it also becomes one of the best places in France to cool off. Whether you're a tourist visiting for a few days or exploring the region on a longer holiday, Bordeaux offers an impressive range of swimming spots. From indoor pools to lakes and nearby Atlantic beaches, here’s where to find the best places to swim in Bordeaux.

Why Bordeaux is Ideal for Swimming

Thanks to its mild summers, efficient public transport and close proximity to both nature and the coast, Bordeaux is a convenient base for travellers who want to swim. Whether you’re after a calm family lake, a splash in a public pool, or an energetic surf on the Atlantic coast, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your style.

Public Swimming Pools in Bordeaux

<strong>Public Swimming Pools in Bordeaux</strong>

If you’re visiting Bordeaux outside the summer season or just prefer a well-maintained indoor facility, the city has several good municipal pools. These pools are clean, safe, and accessible via tram or bus.

Piscine Judaïque Jean Boiteux

  • Location: 164 rue Judaïque, 33000 Bordeaux
  • Facilities: 50-metre indoor pool, children’s paddling area, hammam, sauna, solarium
  • Why go: Central location, open all year, ideal for lap swimming and families

This is one of the most popular indoor pools in the city. Tourists can enjoy its Art Deco design and excellent public facilities. Easy to reach via tram lines A and B.

Piscine Georges Tissot

  • Location: 46 rue Léon Blum, Bacalan
  • Facilities: 25m pool, learner basin, splash area, 35m waterslide, spa
  • Why go: Family-friendly, includes aqua play and childcare services

A great choice for families staying in the Bacalan or Bassins à Flot areas, especially after visiting the nearby Cité du Vin.

Piscine du Grand Parc

  • Location: 60 cours de Luze, Bordeaux
  • Facilities: Lap pool, children’s splash zone, solarium
  • Why go: Outdoor summer pool with grassy sun areas, easy access from central Bordeaux

Recently renovated and ideal for children, this is a favourite spot for summer afternoons.

Piscine Municipale de Bègles (Les Bains)

  • Location: 1 rue Francis-de-Pressencé, Bègles
  • Facilities: Covered pool, sauna, hammam, café
  • Why go: Unique heritage pool with a calm atmosphere, just 20 minutes from central Bordeaux

For visitors staying in the south of the city, Bègles offers a relaxed option with easy tram connections.

Lakes and Natural Swimming Spots Near Bordeaux

<strong>Lakes and Natural Swimming Spots Near Bordeaux</strong>

During summer, locals head to the many lakes around Bordeaux for a swim in nature. These are the best places to swim near Bordeaux for a relaxing outdoor experience.

Lac de Bordeaux (Bordeaux-Lac)

  • Location: Tram C to Parc des Expositions
  • Features: Sandy beach, monitored zones, picnic areas, children’s play spaces

This man-made lake is the most accessible option for tourists and is perfect for families. It’s free to enter and well-connected by tram.

Lac de la Magdeleine (Mérignac)

  • Location: Mérignac
  • Features: Woodland setting, barbecue areas, walking trails

Ideal for couples or visitors wanting a quiet day out in nature. You’ll need a car or a local bus to reach it.

Hostens Lakes

  • Location: About 45 minutes by car
  • Features: Multiple lakes, sandy shores, cafés, lifeguarded swim zones

A popular day-trip destination for locals and great for tourists with access to a vehicle.

Lac de Cazaux

  • Location: Near Arcachon, 1 hr 15 min from Bordeaux
  • Features: Warm shallow water, pine forest backdrop, family-friendly

This freshwater lake offers a peaceful alternative to the Atlantic coast, especially good for small children.

Best Beaches Near Bordeaux

For visitors staying in Bordeaux without a car, these beaches are accessible by train or public transport. Perfect for a full-day coastal adventure.

Plage de Lacanau-Océan

  • Travel time: ~1 hour 15 mins by bus or car
  • Highlights: Surf schools, beach cafés, supervised areas

One of the top Bordeaux beaches, it’s known for waves and a lively atmosphere.

If you're planning a full coastal escape, explore our detailed guide to the best beaches near Bordeaux to compare surf spots, family beaches, and quieter Atlantic stretches.

Hourtin Plage and Hourtin Lake

  • Travel time: ~1 hr 30 min by car
  • Highlights: Forest trails, sand dunes, safe swim zones

Perfect for nature lovers, with the added bonus of France’s largest freshwater lake.

Arcachon Bay Beaches

  • Travel time: 1 hr by train from Gare Saint-Jean
  • Highlights: Family-friendly beaches (Pereire, Le Moulleau), seafood restaurants, sunset views

You can also visit the Dune du Pilat, the highest sand dune in Europe, for incredible views.

Family-Friendly Swimming in Bordeaux

<strong>Family-Friendly Swimming in Bordeaux</strong>

If you’re travelling with children, Bordeaux offers several safe, easy-to-access swim areas:

  • Lac de Bordeaux: Monitored beach, playgrounds, and shaded picnic lawns
  • Piscine du Grand Parc: Outdoor splash area and grassy sunbathing spots
  • Lac de la Magdeleine: Calm waters and surrounding parkland for games and nature walks

All three are ideal for casual swimmers, beginners, and families looking to relax.

Swimming Clubs and Events

<strong>Swimming Clubs and Events</strong>

During summer, Bordeaux swimming lakes like Lac de Bordeaux host open-water swim races and community swim days. Some clubs welcome short-term visitors:

  • Bordeaux Étudiants Club Natation
  • Stade Bordelais Natation
  • Club de Natation de Talence

These are suitable for experienced swimmers or tourists staying for more than a few days.

Summer Events and Lakeside Activities

<strong>Summer Events and Lakeside Activities</strong>

Plan your visit around Bordeaux’s summer events for an even more enjoyable trip:

  • Outdoor cinema at Lac de Bordeaux – Screenings start at dusk on weekends
  • Beach volleyball and yoga sessions – Often free and open to the public
  • Food trucks and live music – Especially on warm Friday evenings
  • Eco clean-up days – Great for giving back while travelling

Safety Tips for Swimming in Bordeaux

To enjoy Bordeaux’s natural and urban swim spots safely:

  • Swim only in supervised zones
  • Avoid alcohol before swimming
  • Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen
  • Watch out for changing currents, especially at the coast
  • Respect nature – don’t leave rubbish or damage wildlife

Whether you're diving into an indoor pool or wading into a quiet lake, following these basics will keep your visit fun and safe.

 

Looking for more local activities after your swim? Join a free walking tour of Bordeaux to explore the city’s historic charm on foot. Discover the stories behind the monuments, hidden corners, and riverfront landmarks with experienced local guides at Bordeaux Free Walking Tours.