Every year, the beaches of the Landes attract thousands of vacationers with their vast stretches of fine sand and spectacular waves. But they also have a natural feature that you need to be aware of before going for a swim: the baïnes.

If you’re staying at Les Chênes de Léon in the Village Sous les Pins, you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful beaches of Moliets, Messanges, Vieux-Boucau, La Lette Blanche, and Saint-Girons. To enjoy the ocean safely, here are a few simple tips to help you better understand this natural phenomenon.

What is a “baïne”?

A baïne is a natural depression that forms in the sand between the beach and an offshore sandbar. At low tide, it often resembles a calm pool of water where you can stand.

As the tide rises, this basin gradually fills with water. The water then flows back toward the ocean through a channel between the sandbars. This movement creates a powerful current—known as a rip current—that can quickly sweep a swimmer out to sea.

Contrary to popular belief, it is not the sandbar itself that is dangerous, but the current that forms during the rising tide and around high tide.

Why are there sandbars in the Landes?

There are a particularly large number of sandbars along the Landes coast due to its geography.

The long sandy beaches, the power of the Atlantic swell, the strong tides, and the ocean currents are constantly shifting the sand. As the waves and tides ebb and flow, sandbars form and then shift, naturally creating these distinctive basins.

It is a completely natural phenomenon that contributes to the ongoing evolution of the coastline.

Are there rip currents all year round?

Yes. Baïnes occur throughout the year.

However, their size, depth, and location change regularly due to storms, swells, and tides. A beach that had no rip current in the spring may develop several after a few weeks of strong waves.

That is why it is impossible to remember their locations from one year to the next—or even from one month to the next.

Do sandbars move?

Yes, all the time.

The sandbars that form the baïnes are constantly reshaped by waves, currents, and winter storms. Some baïnes disappear within a few days, while others shift by several dozen meters.

This is also why lifeguards regularly adjust the designated swimming areas to account for changes in the shoreline.

Why can rip currents be dangerous?

When it sets in, it can very quickly pull a swimmer out to sea, even if the swimmer is a strong swimmer. This phenomenon often catches people by surprise: the swimmer then tries to swim directly back to the beach, becomes exhausted fighting the current, and gets into trouble.

How can you protect yourself?

Here are a few simple rules to help you enjoy the ocean safely:

• Swim only in supervised areas, between the flags;

• Always follow the instructions of the lifeguards;

• Avoid swimming alone;

• Keep a close eye on children, even when they are playing near the water;

• Check the tide schedules before heading to the beach;

The lifeguard-patrolled beaches at Moliets, Messanges, Vieux-Boucau, La Lette Blanche, and Saint-Girons are designed to provide the best swimming conditions based on the day’s currents.

What should you do if you get swept away?

The most important rule is not to fight the current.

If you are being swept out to sea:

• Stay calm;

• Let yourself be carried away for a few moments;

• Signal your presence by raising one arm;

• Swim parallel to the beach to get out of the current;

• When you feel the current weakening, calmly make your way back to shore, riding the waves.

If you see someone being swept away by a current, do not go into the water to rescue them unless you are trained to do so. Immediately notify the lifeguards or call 112 or 196 (marine emergency).

Enjoy the ocean in complete peace of mind

Rip currents are a natural part of the Landes landscape. As long as you understand them and follow safety guidelines, they shouldn’t prevent you from enjoying the magnificent beaches of the Atlantic coast.

During your stay at Les Chênes de Léon, always choose beaches with lifeguards on duty. Lifeguards adjust the swimming areas daily based on sea conditions so that everyone can enjoy the ocean safely.