Morning begins on the ocean beaches. A few steps from the pine forest, the waves crash onto the golden sand. Regulars head to the surf spots near the Sailfish or walk along the Tennis de l’Océan, board under one arm, towel over the shoulder. For others, a refreshing swim opens the day. Then come the sandy paths. By bike or on foot, venture into the forest, accompanied by the scent of pine and the crunch of sand. The trail leads to the village of L’Herbe, with its colourful cabins and flower-lined lanes. Pause before the chapel of the Villa Algérienne, a Neo-Moorish silhouette rising there like a mirage between sky and sea. At lunchtime, head to the Cap Ferret market for an improvised picnic or a table in an oyster hut facing the bay. In the afternoon, climb the Cap Ferret lighthouse: the view from the top embraces the ocean, pine forest, bay, and the Dune du Pilat. To continue the adventure, set sail from the Bélisaire pier. A sea shuttle glides across to Arcachon: a gentle crossing to its Belle Époque villas, seaside promenade and café-lined port. Those who prefer to stay on the water can board a traditional pinasse, the bay’s emblematic wooden boat, which sails towards the Banc d’Arguin, a vast sandbar at the foot of the Dune du Pilat, or to the Île aux Oiseaux, famous for its stilt houses known as cabanes tchanquées. There, time slows down: take a few minutes to observe the migratory birds before leaving as the tide comes in. At nightfall, Cap Ferret calms down. And the day ends as it began: feet in the sand, heart light.