With comfy, candystriped cushioned seating overlooking kitesurfers on sandy Plage des Arbousiers and an atmospheric bar wrapped around a tree, the Bikini buzzes year-round with energy, fun and locals. Its kitchen cooks up first-class shellfish and seafood, fresh from the ocean – the barbu (brill) à la plancha is superb. Between meals (reservations essential), it morphs into a hip cafe-bar and waterfront hangout.
To get here, follow the cycling path from Arcachon along the coast towards Dune du Pilat for 4km. Check its Facebook page for summertime soirées on the sand.