Arcanse by Inwood Hotels

Two streets back from the Arcachon waterfront, this boutique hotel threads the line between urban chic and beach house ease, which turns out to be exactly the right needle to thread in a bay town. Rooms are fitted out like ships' cabins, quietly nautical without the captain's hat energy, and some look out over the bay. Breakfast and an late-afternoon aperitif are included; dinner, you'll find easily on foot.