On my second ever trip to Arcachon, we ended up getting on the ferry that transports you from the Arcachon side of the bay to Cap Ferret, a little town situated at the souther tip of the commune of Lège-Cap-Ferret. While we glided across the water, there are a couple of things that are common sights – first and foremost, the little sticks jutting out of the water that are part of the oyster parks that dot the coastline, and secondly, beautiful wooden boats called pinasse. *Insert adolescent vulgar joke here*

After my giggling subsided, I learned that these boats were emblematic of Arcachon Bay – these long, narrow boats made of wood are painted different colors and can be seen floating on the water all year long. There are some companies that will rent you a pinasse (complete with a skipper) for the day – a gorgeous way to soak up the sun and find a little private(ish) slice of paradise away from the public beaches.