OCEAN
The Atlantic Ocean: 126 km of natural and cinematic scenery
The Gironde region boasts 126 kilometers of unspoiled ocean beaches , stretching from Verdon-sur-Mer to the Arcachon Basin . It's a wild and spectacular coastline, where endless dunes, pine forests, charming seaside resorts, and long stretches of golden sand alternate. These areas remain relatively untouched, particularly along the Médoc coast, offering film productions invaluable freedom and pristine scenery.
The Gironde coast is also full of partially buried World War II bunkers , visible on the beaches and in the dunes. These remains offer unique and historically rich settings, perfect for filming historical movies, thrillers, or scenes with a strong graphic character.
The Gironde's oceanfront scenery offers an incredible diversity of landscapes: cliffs, beach huts, urban beaches, harbors, surf spots, coastal forests, and charming, retro seaside villages. Nearby, the Médoc vineyards complement this visual richness with their châteaux and seemingly endless vines. A unique blend of ocean and vineyard.
OUR FAVORITES
Soulac-sur-Mer
A charming seaside resort with a Belle Époque feel, Soulac is famous for its colorful beach huts and old seaside villas. An authentic atmosphere and a 7-kilometer coastline make it perfect for oceanfront scenes. It also boasts natural pools formed by the tides , veritable ephemeral basins that offer unique settings.
The Médoc lakes
In the heart of the Médoc region, the large lakes , such as Lake Hourtin-Carcans (the largest freshwater lake in France) and Lake Lacanau , offer tranquil and varied settings: fine sandy beaches, pine forests along the shores, small harbors, jetties, and secluded islets. These lakes, close to the ocean, provide an ideal complement for productions seeking a diversity of aquatic environments within a limited area.
Procedure for requesting filming authorization on the coast
Filming on a beach requires multiple permits.
Beaches are part of the public maritime domain. Therefore, you must contact the town hall with geographical jurisdiction.
Authorization should also be requested from the Departmental Directorate of Territories and the Sea – Maritime and Coastal Service (DDTM) which will issue the filming authorization.
Some locations belong to the Conservatoire du Littoral or the Office National des Forêts. You can identify them on Géoportail and depending on the location where you wish to film, you must request a filming permit from one or the other.

















