Hauterive Beach: free swimming and a green space by Lake Neuchâtel

A public beach at the foot of the Laténium, on the north shore of the lake

In Hauterive, right by Lake Neuchâtel and very close to the Laténium museum, there is a municipal beach open to all families. Here, there are no gates or fees: you lay your towel on the large lawn, set up your picnic in the shade, and enjoy. The shore alternates between grass and a large gravel beach, with a raft offshore for the more experienced swimmers. It’s one of those simple and friendly places where you can easily spend an entire summer day. The setting, between lake and greenery, immediately invites you to set down your belongings and settle in.

What your children will discover

Children have plenty to keep them busy beyond swimming. A playground awaits them, with a small circuit for the youngest, and open spaces to run, play ball, or engage in a game of beach volleyball. The raft anchored offshore quickly becomes the goal for swimmers wanting to prove they can swim the distance. Between swims, you can hop on pedal boats or improvise a family game of pétanque. In short, there’s plenty to alternate between water, games, and relaxation without ever getting bored.

What to do there and the atmosphere on site

The atmosphere is that of a village beach: relaxed, family-friendly, and unpretentious. People come for morning swims, lunchtime picnics, or evening aperitifs. Grills and barbecues allow for cooking on-site, and picnic tables provide shaded seating. A snack bar and the restaurant Le Silex cater to those who haven't planned anything. A nice bonus: you are just a few minutes' walk from the Laténium and its archaeological park by the lake, ideal for combining culture in the morning with swimming in the afternoon.

Before you go

• Recommended age: from 2 years old (always under adult supervision near the water); the entire area is suitable for families.
• Duration: from 2 hours to a full day.
• Price: free, entry is open.
• Reservation: none, open access.
• Stroller accessibility: the surroundings and lawn are flat and easily accessible; wheelchair accessibility to be confirmed on site.
• Transport: bus to the stop “Hauterive NE, Port,” then about 200 m on foot; parking nearby the port.
• What to bring: swimsuit, towels, sunscreen, hat, water sandals for the gravel shore, and picnic supplies.
• Ideal season: summer, in good weather, to fully enjoy swimming.

Parents' tips

• For little feet, water sandals make the gravel beach much more comfortable.
• Arrive early on sunny days: shaded spots and parking spaces fill up quickly on weekends.
• Always keep an eye on the children near the water: the presence of lifeguards is not guaranteed (to be confirmed).
• Enjoy the winning combo: morning at the Laténium and its park, afternoon swimming at the beach, all on foot.
• Budget a little for the snack bar or bring your entire picnic: barbecues and tables are on site.

Useful information

• Address: Plage communale, 2068 Hauterive (NE), by Lake Neuchâtel.
• Official site: tourist information at j3l.ch (Neuchâtel Tourism); hours and conditions to be confirmed with the municipality.
• Hours: open access; the beach is open all year round, swimming depending on the season and weather.
• Access: bus stop “Hauterive NE, Port” then 200 m on foot; parking nearby.

Looking for more outings? Find all our activities in Hauterive.

Why we recommend it

Because it ticks all the boxes for a successful family outing: free, easy to access, with water, greenery, games, and food options, all in a peaceful lakeside setting. And the immediate proximity to the Laténium allows you to turn a simple swim into a full day, combining discovery and relaxation without ever needing to get back in the car.

In a nutshell

A free municipal beach by Lake Neuchâtel, in Hauterive: lawn, gravel, playground, and raft, perfect for a family day just steps from the Laténium.