Paris, Marseilles, and Nice - these are just some of the tourist spots in any well-organized French vacation. But did you know that France is also known as a popular surf spot? This is because of powerful winds that bring strong waves to the shores from the Atlantic Ocean. If you’re interested in learning how to surf or you want to go surfing for fun, you’ll find great spots in Southwest France, which attracts both regular surfers as well as professional surfers looking for a challenge. For example, in Capbreton, you’ll find some of the best waves to ride. Discover some of the 10 best surf spots in France.
1. Belharra in Northern Basque Country
Belharra, a surf spot off the coast of Saint-Jean-de-Luz, is known for some very powerful and high waves. This is mainly because the water hits a reef hard, especially during the low tide, generating sizable waves. These waves are difficult to catch, as they only happen a few times a year - you can ask the locals when the waves are present. But once you catch them, you will be able to see some legendary huge waves. Just be careful not to lose your footing, as sharp corals sit at the bottom of the water. There are many restaurants in town you can visit after surfing.
Belharra
Address: Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Basque Country, France
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
2. Le Santocha in Capbreton
Le Santocha is one of the most visited spots in this region and is located in Capbreton. People usually flock to this surf spot in autumn. In Le Santocha, the wave favors those who like going right. The place is also where the Capbreton surf schools regularly train their students. There are some popular hangout spots nearby where you can find some of the best treats after surfing.
Le Santocha
Address: Capbreton, France
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
3. La Graviere in Hossegor
La Graviere is another famous surf spot in France and is a popular destination for the best surfers around. The waves here are host to some pro-level competitions, including the Quiksilver Pro France tournament. They are powerful and are not recommended for those with limited knowledge and skill. New surfers can go to Le Sud instead since its waves are smaller. After your surf, you can enjoy a meal at some popular diners close by.
La Graviere
Address: Hossegor, France
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Biarritz
No surfing trip in France is complete without a round in Biarritz, which is known as France’s surfing capital. The waves are for beginners and intermediate-level surfers, which means the beach is usually crowded with surfers much of the year. 18 different surfing schools train students from spring to autumn, and many local and national tournaments are held there. Numerous surf shops are also available, where you can buy all kinds of souvenirs, including boards if you can take them home.
Biarritz
Address: Biarritz, France
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
5. Les Culs Nus in Hossegor
The gentle but sizable waves of Les Culs Nus is ideal for those who are just starting out, especially for children who want to learn and develop a style. With consistent waves that break in both directions in this spot, it is perfect for teaching students how to read left-hand and right-hand waves. It helps that there are no hazardous obstacles under the water. The beach boasts some fine sand and is frequented by many people. Keep in mind, though, that there is limited parking available, so early surfing times are encouraged.
Les Culs Nus
Address: Hossegor, France
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
6. Le Prevent in Capbreton
In Le Prevent, the waves are consistently clean, albeit with less power and crest. This doesn’t make it any less of a challenge for beginners and novices with relatively quick wave times. There are many people who flock to Le Prevent for this very reason, so be sure to beat the buzz and come early there. There are some dining places you should try after a good round of breaking waves.
Le Prevent
Address: Capbreton, France
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
7. Les Bourdaines in Seignosse
The waves in Les Bourdaines are strong but are usually low to medium in height, and there is a sandbar you have to keep an eye on just so you can adjust your surfing accordingly. This is a medium-difficulty surf spot and can get crowded on a good day. There’s a popular cafe surfers frequent nearby, and the parking lot, which is a short distance from Bourdaines, gets filled up quickly by apartment visitors, so being there before noon is recommended.
Les Bourdaines
Address: Seignosse, France
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
8. La Nord in Hossegor
A surfing spot in the popular Hossegor town, La Nord provides enough challenging waves like the nearby La Graviere for the pros to stay sharp while still allowing the amateurs to level up their skills if coming from La Sud. The waves there favor those going right, as paddling back is more difficult. Just keep in mind that the area fills up with visitors quickly, so do arrive early if you want more time with the waves.
La Nord
Address: Hossegor, France
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
9. La Sud in Hossegor
If you are a beginner at surfing or just don’t want to deal with large waves, the ones at La Sud won’t send you flying. Consistent and strong waves facing in both directions mean you can be comfortable going left or right. The La Sud beachfront is great for those who are new and want to study the basics of surfing, which is why there is a surf school nearby. It’s a good idea to be there in the morning, as the beach is usually packed by afternoon. There is a surf shop and a bike rental area present near the school too if you want to get some souvenirs and explore the town after a surfing trip.
La Sud
Address: Hossegor, France
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
10. La Piste/ VVF in Capbreton
A great surfing spot to visit In Capbreton is La Piste. The surf here is not very beginner-friendly, especially when the winds pick up. Large barrels and walls can form, and it favors those who can turn quickly - these are usually some professional surfers. When the low tide comes and the wind blows east, you can take the challenge and ride these waves. You’ll be well-rewarded if you make it. Just don’t forget you’ll be surfing with a lot of people who also want to give it a shot.
La Piste/VVF
Address: Capbreton, France
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
France, the surf capital of Europe
The southwest region of France is home to some of the most popular surf spots in Europe, and each has unique waves that suit different skill levels. Many of these places have surfing schools nearby if you are new to the activity, and there are always locals willing to help. So if you want to ride some waves, France is the perfect place to bring your board.
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
-
-
-
-
9 Safe Neighborhoods In Paris, France - Updated 2023Natália Cagnani -
-
What To Buy In Nice, FranceAnnelene -
-
-
Create an account to bookmark our articles, like local expert tips, receive great stories in your inbox, and follow writers and topics that you love.
Log in with Google ×