St-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie is a fishing port whose colourful boats derive their livelihood from sardine fishing. The sailors live in picturesque houses in the Petite-Île district. St-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie is also known for its Grande Plage and Boisvinet beaches, much appreciated by holidaymakers, without forgetting a well-sheltered marina, popular with yachties. Finally, the vicinity around St-Gilles church and the Maroc district are refreshingly peaceful.