La Madrague
Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France — Excellent water quality
La Madrague is a Blue Flag-certified beach located 3.68 km from Anglet. The beach is open from June 1 to September 1, with free access. Water quality meets strict environmental and safety standards set by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to La Madrague
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is La Madrague?
La Madrague is a Blue Flag-certified beach located 3.68 km from Anglet. The beach is open from June 1 to September 1, with free access. Water quality meets strict environmental and safety standards set by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
June and September offer the best visiting conditions with fewer crowds than peak summer months. July and August draw the most visitors. Check local water safety conditions before swimming.
It sits alongside other certified beaches in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, part of a broader network of other Blue Flag beaches in France certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
La Madrague faces unknown toward Mediterranean Sea. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in June, September. The beach's orientation determines when it catches direct sun — plan your visit around this to make the most of your time there.
Planning
When to Go — Month by Month
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 8°C | 9°C | Low |
| Feb | 8°C | 9°C | Low |
| Mar | 11°C | 11°C | Low |
| Apr | 13°C | 14°C | Low |
| May | 15°C | 14°C | Low |
| Jun | 18°C | 17°C | Med |
| Jul | 21°C | 19°C | High |
| Aug | 21°C | 19°C | High |
| Sep | 19°C | 18°C | Med |
| Oct | 16°C | 17°C | Low |
| Nov | 12°C | 13°C | Low |
| Dec | 10°C | 10°C | Low |
The best time to visit La Madrague is June, September. Air temperatures peak around 20.5°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 19°C in July.
How crowded does La Madrague get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in France, La Madrague sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is La Madrague open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (01-06 – 01-09). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at La Madrague
Is La Madrague safe to swim?La Madrague is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is rated <span class="inline-stat">Excellent</span>. The beach does not have lifeguards stationed on the beach — swim with appropriate caution.
What is the water temperature at La Madrague?Peak water temperature at La Madrague reaches around <span class="inline-stat">19°C</span> in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 8.4°C.
What is the beach like at La Madrague?La Madrague on the Nouvelle-Aquitaine coast of France. June and September offer the best visiting conditions with fewer crowds than peak summer months. July and August draw the most visitors. Check local water safety conditions before swimming.
Does La Madrague have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, La Madrague meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services. Toilet facilities are on site. Parking is available nearby.
La Madrague sits on the Mediterranean Sea — explore all Blue Flag beaches on the Mediterranean.
Planning a trip to France? Blue Flag Beaches France — our editorial guide to certified beaches across the country.
Transport
Getting to La Madrague
How do I get to La Madrague by car?La Madrague is approximately 3.68 km from Anglet. 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 La Madrague?The nearest airport is Biarritz-Anglet-Bayonne Airport (BIQ) (FCO), approximately 4.9 km away.
Can I get to La Madrague by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Anglet.
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Entry | Free — no charge to access the beach |
|---|---|
| Lifeguards | ✗ |
| Disabled Access | Contact local authority for details |
| Showers | ✗ |
| Toilets | ✓ Available during season |
| Official Season | 01-06 – 01-09 |
| Beach Type | Coastal beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 43.5113°N, 1.5345°W |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — France |
Frequently Asked Questions
La Madrague FAQ
Is La Madrague suitable for children?
La Madrague is a Blue Flag certified beach in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France. The EU Excellent water quality rating means the water is safe and clean for all swimmers, including children. Blue Flag certification itself requires meeting strict environmental and safety standards that benefit all beach users.
Is La Madrague free to access?
Yes, access to La Madrague is free — there are no entry fees or charges to use the beach. Parking is available nearby; check local signs for any parking charges. Facilities including toilets are typically available during the official season at no charge. The beach is managed by local authorities under the Blue Flag programme.
When is the best time to visit La Madrague?
The best time to visit La Madrague is June, September. Water temperature peaks at around 19°C in July, which is ideal for swimming. Air temperatures reach 20.5°C in summer. If you prefer quieter conditions, visiting in June or September gives you warm weather with fewer crowds than the July–August peak. The Blue Flag is displayed during the certified season, confirming the beach meets all water quality and safety standards.
What is the water quality at La Madrague?
La Madrague is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict annual water quality standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is currently rated Excellent. Blue Flag certification is awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and requires independent water quality monitoring throughout the season. The results are publicly available from the European Environment Agency.
How do I get to La Madrague?
La Madrague is located in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France. It is approximately 3.68 km from Anglet. The nearest airport is Biarritz-Anglet-Bayonne Airport (BIQ) (FCO), 4.9 km away. Parking is available at or near the beach. Check local transport authority websites for current public transport schedules. A car is the most flexible option for reaching the beach, particularly outside peak season.
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