Mimizan and its Landes lakes: a nature getaway by van or motorhome

Between ocean, lakes and forest, Mimizan is a hidden gem in the Landes for lovers of wide-open spaces. Discover 5 must-see spots to explore on a road trip.

In Mimizan, nature stretches as far as the eye can see: endless beaches, lakes with shifting reflections and a pine forest offering welcome shade. It’s perfect for van or motorhome travellers looking to escape at their own pace. Here are the unmissable stops for an immersive break, with walks, swims and authentic discoveries along the way.

Plage de Mimizan

A 10 km stretch of fine sand, ideal for surfing, swimming or simply gazing at the ocean. The wild dunes and Atlantic waves make it a landmark spot in the Landes.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping La Maïade Campsite ★ 4.7 Family-friendly campsite rated 4.7/5, spacious pitches under the pines. 33-minute walk to Mimizan, immaculate facilities. › Camping-Car Park Mimizan Motorhome area ★ 3.4 Handy stopover 5 minutes by car, €15 per night. Full services, close to the beach and shops. › Duck lake parking Aureilhan Parking ★ 4.5 Free lakeside parking, shaded and flat. Waterfront views, 43-minute walk to the beach. › Shaded riverside parking Mimizan Parking ★ 4.3 Riverside spot with a natural, peaceful vibe. 17-minute walk, grassy and shaded ground. › Riverside parking Saint-Paul-en-Born Parking ★ 4.3 Wild forest spot by the river. 6-minute drive, ideal for vans (sandy ground). ›

Lac de Mimizan

This peaceful lake, lined with pines, is perfect for paddleboarding, a swim or a lakeside picnic. Its calm waters offer a stark contrast to the nearby ocean’s energy.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping La Maïade Campsite ★ 4.7 Family-friendly campsite rated 4.7/5, spacious shaded pitches. Walking distance to Mimizan and the ocean. › Camping-Car Park Mimizan Motorhome area ★ 3.4 Dedicated area at €15 per night, 5 km from the centre. Basic services, near the beach and forest. › Duck lake parking Aureilhan Parking ★ 4.5 Free parking by the lake with stunning views. Flat, shaded ground, toilets 10 minutes away. › Riverside parking Saint-Paul-en-Born Parking ★ 4.3 Natural forest spot next to a river. Absolute peace, 5 km by car. › Shaded riverside parking Mimizan Parking ★ 4.3 Grassy parking under alder trees by the river. Close to the botanical garden, 17-minute walk. ›

Église Notre-Dame de Mimizan

Listed as a historic monument, this 12th-century church blends Romanesque and Gothic styles. Its octagonal bell tower and sculpted capitals are well worth a visit.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping La Maïade Campsite ★ 4.7 Family-friendly campsite rated 4.7/5, shaded and ultra-quiet. 6 km from the ocean, immaculate facilities. › Quiet parking opposite the gym Mimizan Parking ★ 4.5 Free parking 22 minutes on foot, near the beach and cycle path. Flat and very quiet at night. › Camping-Car Park Mimizan Motorhome area ★ 3.4 Area at €15 per night on the forest edge, 11-minute walk to the beach. Easy access to shops and services. › Parking de la Maillouèyre, Mimizan Parking ★ 4.2 Free forest parking 25 minutes on foot, wild beach nearby. Free water point on site. › Camping Du Lac Campsite ★ 3.9 3-star campsite by the lake, free shuttle to the beaches. Pool and restaurant on site. ›

Étang de Biscarrosse et Parentis

Just a short drive from Mimizan, this vast lake is a haven for watersports enthusiasts and birdwatchers. Its wooded shores offer unspoilt landscapes.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping familial Calède Campsite ★ 4.8 Family-friendly campsite rated 4.8/5 by the lake, shaded pitches and immaculate facilities. 5-minute drive (5 km). › Aire de stationnement Motorhome area ★ 4.3 Municipal area at €9 per night, shaded meadow with full services. 5 minutes from the lake (5 km). › Parking camping car Biscarrosse Motorhome area ★ 4.4 Private area at €14 per night, artificial grass and services included. 5-minute drive (4 km). › Picnic parking Biscarrosse Parking ★ 4.2 Free parking with tables, clear lake views. 5-minute drive (4 km). › Market parking Biscarrosse Parking ★ 4.1 Free parking reserved for motorhomes, close to the town centre. 5-minute drive (5 km). ›

Forêt usagère de Mimizan

A 5,000-hectare state forest perfect for walking or cycling among maritime pines and shaded trails. A tranquil setting for a nature break.

Where to sleep nearby

Duck lake parking Aureilhan Parking ★ 4.5 Shaded parking by a lake, free. Panoramic water views, 5-minute drive. › Camping La Maïade Campsite ★ 4.7 Family-friendly shaded campsite, very quiet. Close to Mimizan and the ocean, 33-minute walk. › Camping Archus Campsite ★ 4.6 Quiet 10-pitch campsite in a meadow. Near the beach, 5-minute drive. › Riverside parking Saint-Paul-en-Born Parking ★ 4.3 Natural forest spot by a river. Guaranteed peace, 7-minute drive. › Quiet parking opposite the gym Mimizan Parking ★ 4.5 Free parking near the beach and cycle path. Flat ground, very quiet at night, 32-minute walk. ›

Phare de Contis

Nearby, this 19th-century lighthouse overlooks the ocean and offers breathtaking views from the top. A visit here sheds light on the area’s maritime history.

Where to sleep nearby

Aire Naturelle de Camping PIOU DE PELLE Campsite ★ 5 Natural area in a pine forest, 6 km from Contis. Large shaded pitches, clean facilities (7-minute drive). › Camping-Car Park Saint Julien en Born Motorhome area ★ 3.6 2-minute walk from Contis Plage, €17 per night. Flat pitches on the forest edge, full services. › Lighthouse parking in pine forest Saint-Julien-en-Born Parking ★ 3.2 Quiet forest parking 300 m from the beach. Spacious pitches among the pines, easy access (3-minute walk). › Camping Yelloh! Village Lous Seurrots Campsite ★ 4.3 5-star campsite 7 minutes from the lighthouse. Heated pool, activities, rated 4.3/5 (66 reviews). › Parking beach chapel Saint-Julien-en-Born Parking ★ 5 Free parking 4 minutes from the lighthouse. Public toilets, central and secure ground. ›

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