Published on 29 April 2024
Reading time: 6 min.
When you're on family vacation by the sea and the sun is shining, you just want to jump into the water. Contrary to popular belief, water sports are not just for those with sea legs. Everyone can try and have fun from a young age! So, what water activities to try as a family? Starting at what age ? From surfing to sand yachting, optimist and windsurfing, we give you the list of the best water activities to do with children.
Surfing and bodyboarding: waves as a playground
From 6 years
Unmissable nautical activity on the Charente Maritime beaches, surfing is accessible to everyone. With expert instructors and boards adapted to their size, children can learn to surf safely. The little ones have a blast taming the waves and making their first slides. Our surf schools are itinerant and adapt to the weather conditions to offer the spot adapted to each person's level. Group or individual lessons allow you to learn the basics or improve your skills. Bodyboards also offer a perfect alternative for gliding smoothly over the waves. So, if you're not afraid and like strong emotions, go ahead and register!
surf schools
Sand yachting: at full speed on the sand
From 8 years
For a unique family experience, we opt for the yachting. This water activity is particularly suitable for children. It does not require specific knowledge and can be practiced in any season. In addition, it is an activity of choice for winter vacation or Easter holidays. After learning how to maneuver the machine, you let yourself be carried by the wind at full speed on the sand with the sea as your only horizon. Hair in the wind, we let go. Let's go for a 2 to XNUMX hour session on the long sandy beaches of Saint-Palais-sur-Mer or Saint-Georges-de-Didonne.
Go sand yachting
Sailing nautical activities: heading for adventure at sea with the children
From 4 years
The nautical bases area offer a range of varied activities for the whole family. As a child, we begin by discovering the marine world before learning about navigation. Parent, you can practice windsurfing or catamaran sailing with them. We meet up to enjoy unforgettable sea trips. A brief overview of possible activities by age.
4-7 years: The sea garden
Supervised by an instructor, children have a fun first approach to water activities. We familiarize them with the marine environment and the wind. They do craft activities like designing nautical knots and participate in treasure hunts. A real awakening activity.
8-12 years: The optimist
This small dinghy (monohull sailboat) is the ideal boat for starting a nautical sailing activity in complete autonomy. We first learn to handle the rigging, to manage our balance, then we start to take our first tacks. Exhilarating!

8-12 years: The funboat
The funboat is a catamaran which has a larger sail than the optimist. Thanks to it, we gain even more speed which provides new sensations. If you don't feel comfortable alone, this support is preferred because you can board in pairs.
Dfrom 8 years old: The catamaran
A slightly seasoned sailor, we choose the catamaran to move up a gear. We start by learning the basics of sailing then we improve with courses. We complete our knowledge and thus optimize the boat's maneuvers. From the age of 15, you progress on an adult catamaran.
From 10 years old: Windsurfing
Windsurfing is one of the water activities to practice with the family. After having found your balance and identified the direction of the wind, you orient yourself using tilting movements of the rigging. Standing on the board is fun and you feel more of the sensations of gliding on the water.

Nautical bases
Kayak and stand-up paddle: discovering the coastline at your own pace
From 10 years
Family activities par excellence, the kayak and stand-up paddle are accessible to all. In Royan Atlantique, there are many spots at sea or in the river. You can rent your equipment and go independently or take part in a discovery tour supervised by a guide. We have fun with the children while enjoying the landscapes. In addition, we have time to observe the surrounding fauna and flora. On a paddle, you can get down on your knees if you can't find your balance. And, for a real laugh, we set our sights on the giant paddle on which the whole family is gathered!
Our best spots
Nautical ski lift and aquapark: fun water activities for the family
From 10 years
The lake of Saujon has a large aquatic activity area. With children, we enjoy the different fun routes. We support them in particular on the inflatable structures, accessible from 4 years old. If we do not already master the water skiing, you can perform your first tricks on a kneeboard. Kneeling on a board pulled by an electric cable, the goal is to hold the position for as long as possible. For their part, experienced riders can also practice wakeboarding or wakeskate on more than ten modules. Strong sensations guaranteed!
For strong emotions or simply moments of relaxation with the family, Royan Atlantique offers a multitude of water activities suitable for children. Enough to create memorable memories!
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