What to do in Vendée when it rains? Our 10 outing ideas
Rain has decided to join your holiday, and you're wondering what to do in Vendée when it rains? Good news: the region is full of ideas to keep you active, curious, or relaxed, even in bad weather! From museums and indoor leisure activities to gourmet breaks and family fun... the possibilities are endless. From our 4-star campsite in Vendée, which outings should you choose? Where can you go with the children? Here is everything you need to turn a rainy day into a truly enjoyable experience!
Discover the Aquarium de Vendée
When the weather turns sour, the Aquarium de Vendée is a reliable choice for rainy-day activities in Vendée. The visit takes place entirely indoors and offers an immersive journey through three marine worlds: Atlantic–Mediterranean, Tropical, and Indo-Pacific.
You can observe over 5,000 marine animals, from local species to tropical fish, in large educational tanks. Playful yet calm, the site appeals to families and curious adults alike, with a strong focus on raising awareness about the marine world.
- Distance from the campsite: approximately 60 km (1h 05 min drive).
- Our tip: Attend a narrated feeding session. The keepers share practical insights into the behaviour of the species, making the experience much more enriching than a self-guided tour.
Observe hundreds of butterflies at L’Île aux Papillons
Among the things to do in Vendée when it rains, L’Île aux Papillons (Butterfly Island) is a visit that is as exotic as it is sheltered. Located on Noirmoutier Island, this large tropical greenhouse—maintained at a steady 26°C—is home to hundreds of tropical butterflies flying freely amidst dense vegetation.
You can explore at your own pace along the walkways, enjoying close-up observations of the insects. An educational film explains the butterfly's life cycle, complemented by a space dedicated to lorikeets, which is always a hit with families.
- Distance from the campsite: approximately 32 km (33 min drive).
- Our recommendation: Wear neutral-coloured clothing. Butterflies are naturally attracted to bright or light colours and are more likely to land on you during your visit.
Visit the Shell Museum (Muséum du Coquillage)
When looking for things to do in Vendée when it rains, the Muséum du Coquillage in Les Sables-d’Olonne offers a visit that is both peaceful and educational. This museum houses over 50,000 shells from seas all over the world, displayed across several themed areas.
The tour highlights the diversity of shapes, textures, and colours while explaining the role of shellfish and crustaceans in marine ecosystems. Playful trails are available for children, making the discovery accessible for families, even on a rainy day.
- Distance from the campsite: approximately 50 km (a one-hour drive).
- Our tip: Take the time to explore the children's trails. The quiz games provide structure to the visit and keep the younger ones focused while they discover rare species.
Explore an indoor miniature village
When looking for things to do in Vendée when it rains, Vendée Miniature offers an original, sheltered immersion. This indoor site reconstructs a Vendée village from the early 20th century using over 650 figurines and about thirty animated scenes.
You will discover old trades, daily life, and local architecture, all crafted with remarkable attention to detail. The tour is progressive, fun, and accessible to all ages, making it an ideal family outing for rainy weather.
- Distance from the campsite: approximately 30 km (37 min drive).
- Our recommendation: Take the time to observe each moving scene. Some animations trigger automatically and reveal details that are easily missed if you move through too quickly.
Have fun at an Escape Game with family or friends
When wondering what to do in Vendée when it rains, La Course Contre La Montre is an effective and stimulating activity. This escape game offers several indoor missions for 2 to 6 players, featuring highly detailed worlds and difficulty levels suitable for both beginners and experienced players.
Observation, logic, and cooperation are at the heart of the experience. Some rooms are specially designed for families, allowing children as young as 9 to participate actively. It is an excellent option for turning a rainy day into a collective challenge.
- Distance from the campsite: approximately 65 km (50 min drive).
- Our tip: Choose a mission tailored to the age of the youngest player. Some family rooms intentionally include fewer technical manipulations, which makes the progression smoother and avoids downtime.
Try your luck at the JOA Casino in Saint-Jean-de-Monts
When the weather doesn't allow for a day at the beach, the JOA Casino in Saint-Jean-de-Monts is a popular alternative. Located facing the ocean, this establishment offers slot machines, electronic table games, a bar, and a restaurant, all within a comfortable and air-conditioned space.
Open all year round, it provides a different kind of outing, whether in the evening or during the day. It is definitely one of the things to do in Vendée when it rains, especially for adults looking for indoor leisure activities.
- Distance from L’Abri des Pins campsite: approximately 5 km (a 10-minute drive).
- Warning: Gambling involves risks: debt, isolation, and addiction. For help, call 09-74-75-13-13 (non-premium rate call in France). Access is restricted to adults; ID will be checked at the entrance.
Try out a Laser Tag session
201 Forest Avenue offers a dynamic activity perfectly suited for rainy days. Its fully redesigned laser tag arena immerses players in a captivating labyrinth, complete with light shows, sound effects, and modern decor.
Accessible from age 6, this activity relies on strategy, skill, and teamwork. Whether with family or friends, these 20-minute sessions allow you to burn off energy, share a laugh, and enjoy an active moment indoors, regardless of the weather.
- Distance from L’Abri des Pins campsite: approximately 19 km (23 min drive).
- Our tip: Go for several games in a row! Strategies sharpen quickly, and the second session is often more balanced and fun than the first, especially when playing with children.
Enjoy a game (or two) of Bowling
The bowling alley at 201 Forest Avenue is a sure bet when the rain sets in over Vendée. With its 12 approved lanes equipped with computerized scoring systems, the space is perfect for both casual players and regulars.
Families can easily join in thanks to the side bumpers and ramps (slides), allowing children as young as 3 to play without frustration! Friendly and accessible, bowling offers a simple activity to share, ideal for brightening up a rainy afternoon or evening indoors.
- Distance from L’Abri des Pins campsite: approximately 6 km (a 10-minute drive).
- Our tip: Call at least 24 hours in advance to book a lane during off-peak hours. You will enjoy a more comfortable game and a smoother pace, especially when playing with children.
Indulge in Vendée gastronomy and local specialties
When the rain sets in, discovering local cuisine becomes an excellent alternative. Around Saint-Jean-de-Monts, restaurants, covered markets, and artisans showcase the best of Vendée specialties.
From mogettes (white beans) and préfou (garlic bread) to fresh fish and seafood—not forgetting gâche (brioche) or the fion (a traditional Vendée flan)—you can explore the region through your plate. This rainy-day activity in Vendée is perfect for both families and couples, turning a grey day into a friendly and delicious experience!
- Our tip: Look for restaurants that use products from the marshes and local fisheries. Ask about the origin of the ingredients; it is often the best indicator of authentic Vendée cooking.