• Beaches and Swimming
• Nautical Excursions
• Marinas
• Kayak and Water Trail
• Wind and Sliding Sports
• Scuba Diving and Snorkelling
• The Caves
• Equestrian Activities
• Golf and Mini-Putt
• Ornithology
• Hiking and Nature Interpretation
• Cycling
• Joys of Winter

Beaches and Swimming

Beaches:

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The fine beaches of the Îles de la Madeleine have always been a major drawing card for summer tourists, making the Islands one of the foremost tourist destinations in Quebec.

The beaches around the archipelago are easy to get to. It is wonderful to stretch out on the warm sand, let the sun caress your skin and the wind whisper in your ears. The sigh of the waves is an irresistible invitation to swim. You might choose to go for a long solitary walk along the beach with only the birds for company. A sure-fire way to recharge your batteries! You can get together with your family to create a sand castle, collect shells or harvest clams in the recommended areas or just sit and meditate while you gaze on the sea whose gift is to renew the person who contemplates it.

On some beaches, it can be very dangerous to go swimming on windy days even if you are a good swimmer. Waves are often the sign of strong currents along the coast. On windy days, bathe only on beaches with a lifeguard or stay out of the water entirely. For more information, contact the Tourist Information Office.

At the end of August and in September, the water temperature in the bays and lagoons can reach 17°C to 21°C. That means you can enjoy swimming until the end of September!

Wind can be a major factor in your enjoyment of a day by the sea, so it is always a good idea to choose a sheltered beach. Because the dunes are a fragile ecosystem essential to the natural equilibrium of the littoral milieu, vehicle traffic is forbidden on the beaches and the dunes. Be careful ! Parking (or any form of obstruction) is also forbidden on the cycle path which parallels the roads.