La Tène Beach in Marin: the large family beach of Lake Neuchâtel

A large sandy beach by the lake, designed for families

In Marin-Epagnier, just minutes from Neuchâtel, La Tène beach is one of the most popular on the north shore of the lake. It features a vast stretch of sand bordered by a large shaded lawn, where you can spread out your towel and picnic without stepping on each other. What makes it popular among parents: the water remains shallow for over a hundred meters, making it an ideal playground for little ones starting out in the water. People come here for swimming, but also for the playground, grills, and the relaxed atmosphere of a summer day with family.

What your children will discover

Your children will discover a real sandy beach like the one you dream of for vacations, with a bottom that slopes gently. The youngest splash around and build castles while the older ones swim a bit further out. The playground allows for alternating between swimming and dry play, and there are activities by the water, including a ping-pong table and a pétanque court. It’s also a place rich in history: the archaeological site of La Tène gave its name to an entire period of prehistory, a fun fact that often amuses curious children.

What to do there and the atmosphere on site

You set your things down on the lawn, look for a shady spot under the trees during the hot hours, and make trips back and forth between the water and the blanket. The atmosphere is family-friendly and calm, with local families spending the day. For lunch, you have options: fire up the grill, picnic on the grass, or sit down at the snack bar. Showers and restrooms allow you to rinse off before leaving, and the adjacent camping gives the place its true vacation vibe by the water.

Before you go

• Recommended age: from 2 years old (shallow water for over 100 m, ideal for toddlers) and up to teenagers.
• Duration: half a day to a full day.
• Price: beach access to be confirmed with the municipality or the official site (check on site).
• Reservation: no, free access.
• Stroller accessibility: partly grassed area, accessible with a stroller with some sandy sections.
• Transport: CFF train station of Marin-Epagnier nearby; parking on site (spaces and rates to be confirmed).
• What to bring: sunscreen, hats, armbands for the little ones, picnic or grilling supplies, and extra shade.
• Ideal season: summer, in good weather, to enjoy swimming.

Parents' tips

• Arrive early on sunny weekends to find a shaded spot under the trees.
• The shallow area is perfect for first steps in the water, but always keep an eye on the little ones: the beach does not indicate official supervision.
• Consider reserving a grill or bringing your own if you want to have a barbecue at noon.
• A pair of water sandals prevents injuries on pebbly areas or docks.
• The snack bar is convenient, but a picnic is more economical for a full day with the family.

Useful information

• Address: Chemin de la Tène, 2074 Marin-Epagnier (NE)
• Official site: https://www.j3l.ch
• Hours: beach is freely accessible; hours for the snack bar and camping to be confirmed on the official site.
• Access: CFF train station of Marin-Epagnier nearby; by car, parking on site.

Looking for more outings? Find all our activities in Marin-Epagnier.

Why we recommend it

Because it’s one of the few beaches in the region where the water remains shallow over a long distance to reassure parents of toddlers, while also providing activities for older children: playground, ping-pong, pétanque, swimming, and large green spaces. All in a true vacation setting, by the shores of Lake Neuchâtel.

In two words

A large family sandy beach by Lake Neuchâtel, with shallow water ideal for little ones, a playground, and all the comforts of a successful summer day.