Stand-up paddleboarding in Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez is a different way to discover the Vendée coast. Between the ocean, the marshes and the rivers, the resort is full of perfect spots to paddle at your own pace. Looking for where to hire a paddleboard in Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez, learn to paddle or simply enjoy a trip on the water? Discover the best spots and providers for an experience that is sporty, calming and 100% sea air.
Base nautique des Demoiselles
- Address: Plage des Demoiselles, Esplanade de la Mer – 85270 Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez
- Telephone: 02 28 11 68 30
- Distance from Au Bois des Biches campsite: approximately 12 km, or 17 minutes by car
- Paddleboard prices: 1 hr → €16 / 2 hrs → €28 / 5 x 1 hr card → €70
- Services: self-guided hire of stand-up paddleboards, surfboards, kayaks and catamarans (no paddleboarding lessons, but supervised sessions are available for other activities)
- Other activities: surfing, sand yachting, aqua walking, canoeing, kayaking, beach volleyball, Mölkky, beach games
- Opening period: March to December – open 7 days a week in July and August
On the wide, fine-sand beach of Les Demoiselles, this Saint-Hilaire Nautisme watersports centre is a great place to try stand up paddleboarding in Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez in a spacious, friendly setting. Ideal for families and water sports fans, it offers paddleboard hire by the hour as well as other water activities throughout the season, from March to December.
Sion sur l’Océan watersports centre
Set among the dunes and just a short walk from the rocky plateau of the Corniche Vendéenne, the Sion sur l’Océan watersports centre is a wonderful spot for paddleboarding in Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez. Quieter and more intimate than Les Demoiselles beach, it appeals to water sports and nature lovers. As well as stand up paddleboarding, the centre offers a wide range of water activities, perfect for mixing things up over the summer.
- Address: Grande plage de Sion l’Océan – 85270 Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez
- Telephone: 02 51 55 13 12
- Distance from Camping Au Bois des Biches: approximately 12 km, or an 18-minute drive
- Paddleboard prices: 1 hr → €16 / 2 hrs → €28 / 5 x 1 hr card → €70
- Services: self-service hire of stand up paddleboards, kayaks, catamarans and windsurfing boards (no paddleboard lessons, but supervised sessions are available on other equipment)
- Other activities: windsurfing, catamaran, canoeing and kayaking, Jardin des mers (introductory activities for children aged 5 and over)
- Opening period: May to September – open 7 days a week in July and August
Les Vallées
In the Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez marshes, the Base nautique des Vallées is the perfect spot for stand-up paddleboarding in Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez in a calm, safe setting. On a 10-hectare lake, sheltered from the waves and the wind, it’s an ideal place to learn, improve or simply relax on the water. This versatile water sports centre welcomes individuals and groups all year round.
- Address: Le plan d’eau des Vallées, 391 chemin des Vallées – 85270 Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez
- Telephone: 02 51 55 99 17
- Distance from Au Bois des Biches campsite: approximately 17 km, or a 22-minute drive
- Paddleboard prices: 1 hr → €16 / 2 hrs → €28 / 5 x 1 hr card → €70
- Services: self-service hire of stand-up paddleboards, windfoils, windsurfing boards, canoes, kayaks and pedalos (no paddleboarding lessons, but sailing instruction is available)
- Other activities: Optimist dinghies, catamarans, wingfoiling, adaptive sailing (Caravelle and Minij), pedalos, canoes, kayaks
- Opening period: all year round – Monday to Friday, Saturdays from Easter, and 7 days a week in July and August
Riding Factory
For a more guided, sporty stand-up paddleboarding experience in Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez, head to Riding Factory. This board sports school runs paddleboarding sessions on the beaches, in the marshes and along the Vendée corniche, so you can discover nature while working on your balance and technique. Open to everyone, it’s a great place to try paddleboarding for the first time or to progress, in a friendly, lively atmosphere with passionate instructors.
- Address: Plage de la Pège – 85270 Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez
- Telephone: 06 73 02 88 30
- Distance from Au Bois des Biches campsite: about 6 km, or a 10-minute drive
- Paddleboarding prices: taster session (1h30) → €38 / private lesson → €70
- What’s on offer: supervised stand-up paddleboarding lessons, guided outings to different spots (sea, marshes, coastal road), rental available on request
- Other activities: surfing, skateboarding, swimming (lessons all year round)
- Opening period: all year round
Tips for paddleboarding in Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez
Stand-up paddleboarding in Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez is a real pleasure, as long as you prepare well! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, a few good habits will help you paddle safely and make the most of the Vendée coastline.
Before you set off:
- Choose the right spot: pick calm water (such as Les Vallées) if you’re starting out, or Sion beach if you’re more experienced.
- Check the weather and tides: avoid strong winds and the hours of high tide when the water is rising.
- Get your equipment ready: a paddle of the right size (15–20 cm above your head), a leash, a buoyancy aid and a wetsuit, depending on the season.
- Protect yourself from the sun: water-resistant sun cream, sunglasses with a strap and a cap are essential.
- Stay hydrated: take a small waterproof bottle with you, or plan a break between sessions.
Paddling along the beaches or across the marshes of Saint-Hilaire is a chance to discover varied, peaceful landscapes while enjoying an activity that’s open to everyone. Whether you’re looking to relax, get active or enjoy nature, paddleboarding in Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez promises a memorable moment between sea and marshes.
During your stay at Au Bois des Biches campsite, why not try paddleboarding in Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez? It’s a refreshing way to enjoy the ocean, the marshes and the peaceful countryside.
