Ker Elisabeth
Pays de la Loire, France: Excellent water quality
Ker Elisabeth sits within La Turballe, a working fishing port on France's Atlantic coast in the Pays de la Loire. The town stretches across 11 kilometres of coastline on the Guérande peninsula, transforming from a year-round population of 2,042 to 35,000 during summer months. As…
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Ker Elisabeth
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Ker Elisabeth?
Ker Elisabeth sits within La Turballe, a working fishing port on France's Atlantic coast in the Pays de la Loire. The town stretches across 11 kilometres of coastline on the Guérande peninsula, transforming from a year-round population of 2,042 to 35,000 during summer months. As France's leading Atlantic port for anchovy and sardine, and fifth nationally by tonnage, La Turballe's identity is firmly rooted in its maritime heritage.
Ker Elisabeth offers access to bathing water rated Excellent, with lifeguards on duty during the season. The beach provides practical facilities for swimmers and families, though the Atlantic waters remain cool year-round, peaking at 17.8°C in July.
It sits alongside Blue Flag beaches in Pays de la Loire, part of a broader network of Blue Flag certified beaches across France certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Ker Elisabeth faces south toward Bay of Biscay. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in April, May, June. Direct sun hours follow that facing.
Planning
When to Go: Month by Month
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 7°C | 11°C | Low |
| Feb | 8°C | 10°C | Low |
| Mar | 9°C | 10°C | Low |
| Apr | 11°C | 12°C | Low |
| May | 15°C | 14°C | Low |
| Jun | 18°C | 16°C | Low |
| Jul | 20°C | 18°C | High |
| Aug | 20°C | 19°C | High |
| Sep | 18°C | 18°C | Low |
| Oct | 14°C | 16°C | Low |
| Nov | 10°C | 14°C | Low |
| Dec | 8°C | 13°C | Low |
When is the best time to visit Ker Elisabeth?
The best time to visit Ker Elisabeth is April, May, June. Air temperatures peak around 19.8°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 17.8°C in July.
How crowded does Ker Elisabeth get?
La Turballe experiences dramatic seasonal variation. The permanent resident population of 2,042 swells to 35,000 during summer months, a seventeen-fold increase that completely transforms the town's character. This concentration occurs between June and September, with peak crowding in July and August when French school holidays coincide with optimal water temperatures (17.8°C).
Ker Elisabeth and the broader 11-kilometre beach system absorb this influx across multiple locations, spreading crowds somewhat. Outside July-August, May and June offer warmer water (16.0°C) with fewer visitors, as do September's 17.8°C conditions. The May-June shoulder season and early September period represent quieter alternatives while maintaining swimmable temperatures.
Winter (November-March) sees minimal tourist presence, though water temperatures require serious cold-water experience. The working fishing port context means even at peak season, La Turballe maintains more of an active working town atmosphere than a purely tourist resort.
Is Ker Elisabeth open year-round?
The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (01-07 – 31-08). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at Ker Elisabeth
Is Ker Elisabeth safe to swim?
Ker Elisabeth is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. The latest official class is Excellent (2025).
Water quality
Excellent (2025)
Earlier seasons: 2024 Excellent, 2023 Excellent, 2022 Excellent.
Excellent is the top class under the EU Bathing Water Directive. Recent samples stayed inside the strictest limits for bacteria.
Source: European Environment Agency
What is the water temperature at Ker Elisabeth?
Peak water temperature at Ker Elisabeth reaches around 17.8°C in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 7.2°C.
What is the beach like at Ker Elisabeth?
Ker Elisabeth is one of La Turballe's 11-kilometre beach system, situated on a peninsula where Atlantic swells meet calmer waters. The beach benefits from Excellent bathing water quality, independently monitored and certified. Lifeguards patrol during the bathing season, providing safety oversight for swimmers.
The water temperature follows the Atlantic pattern: coldest in January and February (around 10.4°C), warming gradually through spring to peak at 17.8°C in July, then cooling again through autumn. September and October still offer 17.8°C and 16.2°C respectively, making shoulder season swimming possible for those with wetsuits. Winter months (November through March) see temperatures between 5-7°C, suitable only for experienced swimmers.
Air temperatures range from 7.2°C in January to highs of 19.8°C in July, with August at 19.6°C. The beach's location on the Guérande peninsula provides some shelter, though Atlantic conditions can vary seasonally.
Ker Elisabeth's proximity to the working fishing port means the beach reflects La Turballe's functional, maritime character rather than resort-style development. The Excellent water quality rating indicates consistent monitoring and management, important for a beach in an active fishing region.
Ker Elisabeth sits on the Bay of Biscay: explore all Blue Flag beaches on the Atlantic.
While You're Here
Beyond Ker Elisabeth
La Turballe's identity extends well beyond Ker Elisabeth. The Maison de la Pêche (Fishing Museum) documents the region's maritime heritage, while the chalutier 'Au gré des Vents' offers visitors an actual working vessel tour. Boat cruises depart regularly for nearby islands, providing day-trip alternatives.
Trescalan's bell tower provides a panoramic vantage point across the Loire estuary to the Vilaine, encompassing the Guérande salt marshes, designated a Grand Site National (National Grand Site). Pen-Bron peninsula, classified as a protected natural site, features walking routes through coastal habitats with views toward Grand Traict and open ocean.
The Guérande salt marshes themselves represent centuries-old traditional salt production, still partly operational and visitable. These sites position La Turballe as a base for exploring the Guérande peninsula's working landscape rather than a single-beach destination.
Transport
Getting to Ker Elisabeth
How do I get to Ker Elisabeth by car?
Ker Elisabeth is approximately 1.24 km from La Turballe. Follow local road signs to the beach. Check Google Maps or a local map for the most current directions.
What is the nearest airport to Ker Elisabeth?
The nearest airport is Nantes Atlantique Airport (NTE), approximately 72.1 km away.
Can I get to Ker Elisabeth by public transport?
Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to La Turballe. The nearest recorded bus stop is 41 m from the beach.
Is there a train to Ker Elisabeth?
Ker Elisabeth lists Le Croisic as the nearest railway station, 7.33 km away. Check current timetables before travelling.
Nearby
Near Ker Elisabeth
Mapped toilets, bus stops, cafés, parking, and shops within about 500 m of Ker Elisabeth. Distances are walking-line estimates from the beach pin.
Map loads when you ask. Tiles stay off the first paint.
Map: OpenStreetMap (ODbL)
Bus near Ker Elisabeth
- Ker Elisabeth Bus stop 41 m
- Ker Elisabeth Bus stop 47 m
Parking near Ker Elisabeth
- Parking Parking 10 m
- Parking Parking 90 m
- Parking Parking 212 m
- Parking Parking 230 m
- Parking Parking 324 m
Source: © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL). Names and positions come from mapped OSM features. Confirm on site.
On the beach
Facilities at Ker Elisabeth
- Lifeguards
- Yes, during the certified season
- Wheelchair access
- No dedicated disabled access listed
- Visual assistance
- No
- Toilets
- No
- Showers
- No
- Parking
- Available nearby (surface parking). No parking fee
- Entry
- Free to enter
These details can change. Check on arrival.
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Official Season | 01 Jul – 31 Aug |
|---|---|
| Beach Type | Sandy beach |
| Nearest supermarket | 800 m from the beach |
| Nearest bus stop | 41 m from the beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 47.3553°N, 2.5188°W |
| Water Quality | Excellent (2025) (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), France |
Frequently Asked Questions
Ker Elisabeth FAQ
Is Ker Elisabeth worth visiting?
Ker Elisabeth merits a visit if you value working coastal towns and reliable bathing water quality. The Excellent water rating indicates consistent safety. However, Atlantic temperatures require realistic expectations: summer peaks at 17.8°C, necessitating comfort with cool water.
The beach's appeal lies in authentic maritime character (La Turballe functions as a fishing port first) rather than resort polish. The surrounding 11-kilometre coastline offers alternatives if conditions don't suit. Best suited for swimmers experienced with Atlantic conditions and visitors interested in coastal fishing culture.
How do I get to Ker Elisabeth?
Ground transport via train or bus requires verification of current schedules from broader Pays de la Loire connections. Driving from Paris (approximately 450 kilometres) takes 5-6 hours.
Once in La Turballe, Ker Elisabeth is accessible on foot or by local transport, being part of the town's central 11-kilometre beach system. Summer season requires advance booking for accommodation and transport.
What's the best time of year to visit?
May-June and September offer the optimal balance: water temperatures of 16.0°C and 17.8°C respectively, with considerably fewer crowds than July-August's 35,000 seasonal residents. July-August provide warmest water (17.8°C) but peak tourist density and higher prices. Winter (November-March) drops water temperatures to 4-7°C, suitable only for experienced cold-water swimmers but offering solitude.
April and October represent intermediate options at 8.4°C and 16.2°C. Air temperatures peak at 19.8°C in July-August, comfortable for beach activities even when water feels cool.
What facilities are there at Ker Elisabeth?
Lifeguards patrol during the bathing season, providing primary safety infrastructure. Ker Elisabeth forms part of La Turballe's 11-kilometre beach system serving 35,000 summer visitors, so broader facilities exist throughout the town including restaurants, shops, and accommodation.
The working fishing port context suggests practical rather than resort-style amenities. Specific facility details at Ker Elisabeth itself (changing facilities, parking, disabled access) require direct verification with La Turballe tourism services, as this data isn't documented in available sources.
Is it suitable for families?
Ker Elisabeth is suitable for families comfortable with Atlantic conditions. Lifeguards provide supervision, and Excellent bathing water quality indicates safe conditions. However, water temperatures require realistic planning: even July-August peaks at 17.8°C, making wetsuits sensible for young children.
May-June and September temperatures (16.0°C and 17.8°C) suit older children with proper clothing. Beyond the beach, La Turballe offers family alternatives including fishing museum visits, boat tours to islands, and Pen-Bron's walking trails. The seasonal population transformation means better facilities and activity availability in peak season but also increased crowding.
Is there a bus near Ker Elisabeth?
Yes. OpenStreetMap maps a public-transport stop 41 m from Ker Elisabeth (Ker Elisabeth), plus 1 more within about 500 m. Check current timetables before you travel. © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).
Is there parking near Ker Elisabeth?
Yes. OpenStreetMap maps parking 10 m from Ker Elisabeth, with 5 lots or spaces inside about 500 m. Charges and time limits are not recorded here. © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).
Explore More
Nearby Blue Flag Beaches
Editorial
From the Zeach Blog
Everything you need to know about what makes a beach qualify for Blue Flag status, from water quality to environmental education.
Read moreOur editorial team's pick of the standout Blue Flag beaches in France, rated for family friendliness, scenery, and facilities.
What the flag actually means, how certification works, and why a Blue Flag is a genuinely reliable signal, not just a marketing tool.
Read moreSources
- Foundation for Environmental Education: Blue Flag programme
- FEE site listing for Ker Elisabeth
- FEE France (Pavillon Bleu)
Last verified September 2026. National operator pages and FEE listings are the primary certification sources.