Don't want to sit by the pool. There are plenty of fantastic experiences to be had. Here are just a few suggestions.....
Kayaking & canoeing or rafting:
There is kayaking in the sea near La Rochelle, on the Gironde Estuary or on the Charente River. From experience I can recommend Cognac Canoe Club - link attached:
http://www.cognaccanoeclub.com/
Don't be put off by the competitive pictures on the front page, there are places for experienced canoeists but you are guided away from these areas.
Surfing
Ile D'Oleron is great for everybody and you can book lessons if you wish. For the more experienced, you might visit Cote Sauvage where the waves are quite splendid!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U
Visit some famous vineyards
http://www.cognacwinetours.com/pineau-vin-de-pays
http://www.cityzeum.com/chateau-mouton-rothschild-25470
Mountaineering & Climbing
http://climbingaway.fr/en/climbing-areas/le-gros-roc
http://www.climb-europe.com/RockClimbingFrance/FrenchPyrenees.html
La Palmyre Zoo
Aquarium La Rochelle
http://www.aquarium-larochelle.com/en
Hiking, horse riding & bike riding
http://www.france-atlantic.com/hiking-and-riding
http://www.freewheelingfrance.com/where-to-go/canal-des-deux-mers.html
Bird watching
http://www.french-holiday-property.com/bird-watching.htm
There are several nature reserves in the area
http://www.the-french-atlantic-coast.com/what-to-see/lilleau-des-niges-nature-resverve/
Fishing
http://www.the-french-atlantic-coast.com/what-to-do/fishing/
Aqualand Theme Park
Painting and Photography
With the beautiful scenery, wonderful architecture and abundant wildlife it really is a wonderful place with beautiful lighting.