Seignosse Le Penon: the neighborhood guide
Seignosse is two municipalities in one. On one side is the town center, four to five kilometers inland, featuring the town hall, church, and covered market — where the majority of year-round residents live. On the other side is Seignosse Océan, by the seaside, with Le Penon as its vibrant commercial heart.
If you’re looking for a vacation where you park your car upon arrival and leave it there, Le Penon is the place to stay. Shops, restaurants, a market, tourist office, water park, and access to the ocean are all within walking distance.
Here’s what you need to know before you visit.
Le Penon, the heart of the resort
All essential shops are gathered in the neighborhood, including bars, restaurants, and boutiques. Some operate year-round, while others open from April to October — a point to remember if you’re visiting in winter.
It’s also from Le Penon that shuttles depart to Bayonne, Dax, Capbreton, and Hossegor.
The Seignosse tourist office is located at the entrance of the neighborhood. It’s the first helpful stop upon arrival: it provides event schedules, beach surveillance hours, and weekly happenings.
Seignosse Tourist Office: https://www.seignosse-tourisme.com/
Le Penon Market
It’s one of the largest markets on the Landes coast. In July and August, almost 200 exhibitors gather at Place Victor Gentille and Avenue Chambrelent, under the pines and just steps from the tourist office.
Food, regional products, clothing, crafts, decor: you can find just about everything. The atmosphere is that of a seaside market, lively from the morning.
Market days at Le Penon
The market opens gradually from Easter and ramps up to peak summer. Hours: 9 AM – 1 PM.
| Period | Days |
|---|---|
| From Easter Sunday to mid-June | Sunday |
| From mid-June to the end of June | Thursday and Sunday |
| From July 1 to August 31 | Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday |
| From September 1 to 15 | Thursday and Sunday |
| From mid-September to the end of September | Sunday |
The early and late-season markets depend on the weather.
The village market
Smaller, more local, and especially open year-round: Wednesday mornings from 8 AM to 1 PM, under the covered hall near the town hall, in the village of Seignosse. Free parking on Avenue Charles de Gaulle.
It’s the market for locals. If you’re visiting off-season, this is the one to go to.
Shops and services
Spar Supermarket at Le Penon — 4 Place de la Vigie. A year-round convenience store open daily: bread, pastries, fruits and vegetables, regional products.
The Relais des Mousquetaires — Avenue du Penon, Estagnots shopping center. General food, fruits and vegetables, bread, rotisserie.
The area also has a pharmacy, medical offices, surf shops, and bike rentals.
What to do in Seignosse
Atlantic Park
The water park is located in the heart of Le Penon, just behind the dune near the beach parking lot. It’s a reliable option for days when the ocean is too rough for children.
The studios are less than 100 meters from Atlantic Park
Seignosse Golf
A renowned course, designed within the pine forest just minutes from Le Penon.
Le Tube
The performance hall in Seignosse, hosting concerts and events year-round. Check the schedule before you come: it often features charming surprises in the off-season.
Biking and forest
The network of bike paths connects Seignosse to Hossegor, Capbreton, and Vieux-Boucau through the pine forest, away from cars. It’s the best way to get around in July and August when the beach parking fills up.
Note to clarify a common misconception: the Landes forest is not a primary forest. It is a maritime pine forest planted in the 19th century to stabilize the sands. This does not detract from the beauty of the bike paths that traverse it, but it is a landscape created by humans.
Surfing
Seignosse has four recognized surf spots that draw surfers from far beyond the Landes, with schools available on most beaches.
Beaches
Four supervised beaches stretch for about six kilometers: Le Penon, Les Bourdaines, Les Estagnots, and Les Casernes. Each has its unique character.
Getting around and distances
From Le Penon:
| Destination | Distance |
|---|---|
| Hossegor | 5 km |
| Capbreton | 9 km |
| Vieux-Boucau | 20 km |
| Biarritz | 36 km |
Le Penon is the starting point for shuttles to Bayonne, Dax, Capbreton, and Hossegor.
Frequently asked questions
What are the market days in Seignosse?
At Le Penon: Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday from 9 AM to 1 PM in July-August, Thursday and Sunday in June and early September, Sunday only at the beginning and end of the season. In the village: Wednesday mornings from 8 AM to 1 PM, year-round.
What is the difference between Seignosse village and Seignosse Le Penon?
The village is the historical settlement, located four to five kilometers inland, with the town hall and year-round services. Le Penon is the seaside district, focusing on tourist shops, restaurants, and beach access.
Are there shops open year-round at Le Penon?
Yes, some shops remain open off-season, including the Spar supermarket at Place de la Vigie. Seasonal shops typically open from April to October.
Where is the Seignosse tourist office located?
At the entrance of the Le Penon neighborhood.
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