Family Picnics Made Better: The Best Parks and Beaches in Brittany

Nothing beats spreading a blanket on soft grass or warm sand for a family meal and Brittany has some of France’s best picnic experiences. 

Here’s your guide to the best parks and beaches in Brittany’s most family-friendly locations. Plus, practical tips to make your next picnic the best one yet.

Parks that Make Every Picnic Special

These green spaces have everything you need for a perfect family picnic, from shady spots to clean facilities.

1. Thabor Gardens, Rennes

As the crown jewel of Rennes, Thabor Gardens spans over 10 hectares of perfectly kept gardens. 

The best picnic spot is near the duck pond, where kids can watch the birds while munching their snacks. 

In summer, the rose garden adds lovely scents to your outdoor meal. The gardens have plenty of shaded areas under century-old trees.

It’s perfect for those hot afternoons when you need a break from the sun.

2. Parc de la Beaujoire, Nantes

This park comes with a bonus your kids will love: a small farm. Between bites, children can watch goats, sheep, and rabbits go about their day. 

The wide lawns give plenty of space for running around or throwing a ball after lunch. 

There are also clean restrooms nearby, which any parent knows is worth its weight in gold during family outings.

3. Parc de la Briantais, Saint-Malo

This park is set high above the sea and has amazing views while you eat. 

The sloping lawns make natural seats, and the old mansion creates a grand backdrop for your picnic photos. 

The grounds have enough space for kids to play tag or hide and seek, but they’re also compact enough that you can keep an eye on them from your picnic spot.

Beach Picnics That Feel Like Paradise

When you want sand between your toes while you eat, these beaches are the perfect mix of comfort and fun.

1. Plage de l’Ecluse, Dinard

This beach has everything you need for the perfect picnic by the sea. The crescent shape blocks strong winds, making it easier to keep your napkins from flying away. 

The sand is fine enough for comfortable sitting but firm enough that it won’t get into your food. 

Time your visit for low tide, and you’ll have twice the space plus some tide pools for the kids to explore.

2. Plage des Grands Sables, Île de Groix

This white sand beach feels like a private slice of heaven. The clear water and gentle slope make it safe for kids to paddle while you set up lunch. 

Behind the beach, small dunes create natural windbreaks and private nooks for your picnic setup. 

When going, remember to pack extra water here as there are no shops nearby.

3. Plage de Bon Secours, Saint-Malo

When the tide is out, this beach turns into a massive playground. Rocky pools fill with tiny sea creatures, keeping kids busy for hours. 

The sea wall has built-in benches if you prefer not to sit on the sand, and the view of the old town makes every sandwich taste better. 

The beach also has a seawater swimming pool if anyone wants a proper swim after eating.

Smart Tips for Better Picnics

Small things make a big difference between an okay picnic and a great one. Here are a few tips for your family picnic.

Tip 1: Getting the Timing Right

Most parks are quietest between 11 AM and 1 PM when locals are having lunch elsewhere. For beaches, check the tide times online because low tide usually gives you more space and better spots for kids to play.

Tip 2: Weather Smarts

Even sunny days in Brittany can turn chilly. Pack a light jacket just in case. Beach picnickers should bring a windbreak or look for natural shelter among rocks. Most parks have covered areas where you can wait out quick rain showers.

Tip 3: Food and Water Planning

Parks usually have water fountains, but beaches don’t. Both Thabor Gardens and Parc de la Beaujoire have nearby shops for extra supplies. For beach trips, pack more water than you think you need.

Tip 4: Setting Up Your Spot

Use a thick blanket for parks and a thinner one for beaches – sand brushes off lighter fabrics more easily. In parks, slightly sloping ground makes a good backrest and helps you keep an eye on playing kids.

Tip 5: Keeping Things Clean

Bring extra bags for trash – bins often fill up quickly in summer. Also, watch out for seagulls at beaches because they’re pros at spotting unattended food.

What to Bring for Maximum Fun

These are the essential items for a stress-free picnic day out. Whether it’s a park or beach picnic, they’ll make you more comfortable.

For Park Picnics

• A thick, cushioned blanket that’s comfortable on grass
• Simple games like cards or compact board games that won’t disturb others
• Wet wipes for quick cleanup of sticky hands and faces
• A ball or frisbee for after-meal activities
• Extra bags for collecting trash and protecting food
• Paper towels or napkins for spills

For Beach Picnics

• A lightweight blanket that sand won’t stick to
• A small brush for sweeping sand off hands and feet
• Waterproof bags to protect phones and cameras
• A spray bottle with fresh water for cleaning sandy hands
• An umbrella for sun and wind protection
• Extra bags for trash and keeping food sand-free
• Wet wipes that can handle both food and sand

Get these basics packed and you’re all set for a great day out with your family.

What Makes These Spots Special

There’s a good reason why local families keep coming back to these spots.

• Parks come with built-in shade from old trees and easy access to bathrooms, making them perfect for families with young kids who need frequent breaks.
• Beaches offer free entertainment with their rock pools, waves, and shells, keeping children busy for hours without any extra toys.
• All these spots have clear sightlines, so you can relax while keeping an eye on playing kids.
• The variety of activities means both younger and older children stay entertained, whether they want to feed ducks, build sandcastles, or play ball games.
• Each location has enough space for families to spread out without feeling crowded, even during peak times.

Pack your picnic basket and choose any of these spots and you won’t go wrong.

Making Memories in Brittany

These parks and beaches aren’t just places to eat outside. They’re spots where family stories begin, where kids learn about nature, and where simple meals turn into adventures. 

So, pack that picnic basket and head out. The perfect spot is waiting for your family’s next memory.