Surfing in France: Ultimate Surf Travel Guide

France isn’t just about wine, cheese, and baguettes – it’s got some of the best beach breaks on the planet.

From the barreling shore breaks of Hossegor to the mellow peelers in Biarritz, the waves here cater to every level. Add in world-class food, late-night beach parties, and a surf culture that runs deep, and you’ve got a trip worth taking.

So, whether you’re chasing heavy barrels or fun summer cruisers, surfing in France delivers. Just don’t forget your croissant for the post-surf refuels.

What’s Special about Surfing in France?

Surfing in France is all about variety. The southwest, especially the famed Silver Coast, delivers world-class beach breaks, with Hossegor standing tall as Europe’s answer to Hawaii’s North Shore.

These punchy, sand-bottom barrels get supercharged in winter but mellow out into playful, cruisy waves in summer – perfect for beginners.

Meanwhile, Brittany and the Basque Country offer rugged reefs and point breaks for those chasing something different.

Whether you’re after heavy slabs or smooth peelers, France has a wave for every surfer.

Beyond the waves, the surf culture here is deep-rooted. From Biarritz’s chic, old-school charm to the raw, untamed shores of the Atlantic, France blends history, style, and pure stoke.

Surf towns buzz with energy – think great food, lively nightlife, and a laid-back European surf vibe. But don’t expect an easy ride everywhere; localism can be strong in top spots. Still, with miles of coastline, finding an uncrowded peak is always possible.

Where to Surf in France: An Overview

France’s coastline offers an incredible variety of surf zones, each with its own personality and appeal.

In the north, Brittany delivers rugged charm, dramatic cliffs, and powerful swells that hit rocky reefs and expansive beaches. This region has a wild, untamed feel, with waves that work best in autumn and winter.

Moving south, the Silver Coast stretches for miles, featuring some of Europe’s most famous beach breaks. This is where you’ll find consistent, punchy waves, especially in the Landes region, home to legendary surf towns like Hossegor and Seignosse.

The Basque Coast, closer to Spain, offers a mix of powerful reef breaks and beginner-friendly bays, all wrapped in a vibrant surf culture that blends French and Spanish influences.

The best time to surf in France depends on what you’re after. Summer brings smaller, friendlier waves and warm water, perfect for beginners and casual surfers. In contrast, fall and winter deliver heavier swells and powerful surf, drawing experienced riders in search of barrels.

While the Atlantic coast is the main surfing hub, the Mediterranean also has a few hidden spots, though they rely on rare wind-driven swells.

No matter where you go, France isn’t just about the waves – it’s about the food, the culture, and the après-surf vibes that make every trip unforgettable.

8 Best Surf Spots in France

Ready to plan your surf trip to Frabcxe? Here are some of the best breaks to visit.

Lacanau

Conditions: Lacanau is a world-famous surf spot with powerful, punchy beach breaks that work on all tides. The long sandy coastline means plenty of peaks, so you don’t have to battle the crowds as much as in some other spots. Waves range from mellow peelers in summer to serious barrels when autumn swells hit.

Best Time to Surf: September to November is prime time. You’ll get solid Atlantic swells, warm water, and fewer tourists. Summer can be fun but crowded, with smaller waves.

Vibe: Lacanau has a classic surf town feel, with a mix of hardcore locals, weekend warriors, and travelling surfers. The energy is fun and lively, but the lineup can get competitive when the waves are firing.

Getting There: Lacanau is about an hour’s drive from Bordeaux. If you’re flying in, Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport is your best bet, then rent a car or take a bus to the coast.

If you’re a beginner, hit the surf schools near Plage Centrale before tackling the punchier peaks.

Les Estagnots

Conditions: This spot in Seignosse is a magnet for powerful, hollow waves. Les Estagnots is known for its A-frame peaks, with both lefts and rights that get heavy when the swell picks up. It’s a sand-bottom break, but it can get serious, so be prepared for some hefty hold-downs on bigger days.

Best Time to Surf: September to April for the best swells. Summer is smaller but still fun, especially for intermediates.

Vibe: Les Estagnots attracts a mix of locals and international surfers. It’s a well-known spot, so expect some crowds, especially when it’s pumping. The beach itself is chill, with a cool café scene and surf shops nearby.

Getting There: Fly into Biarritz or Bordeaux, then drive about 30-45 minutes south to Seignosse. Having a car makes surf exploration way easier.

If Estagnots is maxing out, check nearby breaks like Les Bourdaines or La Gravière for something more manageable.

Les Cavaliers

Conditions: Les Cavaliers in Anglet is one of the most famous heavy beach breaks in France. This place throws out fast, powerful barrels over a shifting sandbar. It’s a spot for confident surfers who can handle quick take-offs and some serious beatdowns.

Best Time to Surf: Autumn and winter (September to March) are the best times to score big, hollow waves. Summer is smaller but can still be fun.

Vibe: This is a high-performance wave, and the crowd reflects that. Lots of local chargers and pros train here, so be respectful in the lineup. If you’re not used to heavy waves, it’s best to watch before paddling out.

Getting There: Anglet is right next to Biarritz, so it’s super accessible. Fly into Biarritz Airport, then grab a taxi or rental car.

If Cavaliers is too heavy, check out nearby Anglet beaches like La Madrague or Marinella for more manageable waves.

Les Casernes

Conditions: Les Casernes is a dream for surfers who want solid waves without the crazy crowds of more famous spots. It’s a long stretch of sandy beach with fun, consistent lefts and rights. The waves here can be fast and punchy but are generally forgiving compared to some of the heavier beach breaks in the area.

Best Time to Surf: September to November for the best swells and fewer people.

Vibe: Super mellow. Because it’s not as well-known as other Landes spots, you can often score waves with just a few others in the water. There’s a raw, untouched beauty here, making it a favourite for those who love nature as much as surfing.

Getting There: Located just north of Seignosse, Les Casernes is best accessed by car. There’s a big parking lot near the beach, and it’s a short walk to the waves.

Pack some snacks – there aren’t many food options nearby. Also, watch out for rips, especially when the swell gets big.

La Sauzaie

Conditions: Unlike most of France’s sandy-bottomed breaks, La Sauzaie is a reef break. It produces fast, hollow waves that break over a rocky shelf, making for some serious barrels on the right swell. It’s a spot that can hold some serious size, so if you’re looking for a challenge, this is it.

Best Time to Surf: September to May for powerful, clean waves.

Vibe: La Sauzaie is home to the WQS Pays de La Loire Surf Pro competition, so expect a local crew that knows what they’re doing. It’s not as busy as Hossegor, but it’s still competitive. Bring your A-game.

Getting There: Located in the Vendée region, about an hour from Nantes. Best reached by car.

Wear booties if you’re not used to surfing over the reef. If you want something mellower, check nearby beaches like Bud Bud for easier waves.

Biarritz

Conditions: Biarritz is where surfing first landed in France, and it’s still one of the most iconic surf towns in Europe. There are multiple spots here, from mellow rollers at Côte des Basques to punchy waves at Grande Plage. You won’t find heavy barrels like Hossegor, but it’s a perfect place to cruise and soak up the surf culture.

Best Time to Surf: April to October for fun, consistent waves. Winter can bring some bigger swells, but it’s usually more of a longboarder’s paradise.

Vibe: Biarritz has a mix of everyone – beginners, pros, tourists, and old-school longboarders. It’s a stylish, historic surf town with a relaxed but lively energy.

Getting There: Fly into Biarritz Airport, and you’re just minutes from the beach. It’s also a quick train ride from Bordeaux.

For a true Biarritz experience, grab a post-surf coffee at Le Surfing and soak in the views of the Atlantic.

Guéthary

Conditions: Guéthary is the spot for serious surfers looking to charge big waves. This deep-water reef break catches long-period Atlantic swells and transforms them into heavy, rolling walls of water. Parlementia, the main break, can hold waves up to 20 feet on the right day, making it one of the biggest waves in France. The wave is powerful but more forgiving than some other big-wave spots – think long, open faces rather than mutant slabs.

Best Time to Surf: Winter is prime time (November to March). Swells are massive, and the wave really comes to life. Summer is generally too small for Guéthary to work properly.

Vibe: This is a locals-heavy, big-wave spot. If you’re out here, you better know what you’re doing. The atmosphere in the water is respectful but serious – this isn’t a place for messing around. On land, though, Guéthary is a charming little Basque town with a laid-back, old-school surf vibe.

Getting There: Guéthary is just south of Biarritz, about a 15-minute drive away. You can also take a train or bus if you’re staying in Biarritz or Bayonne.

If you’re not ready to tackle Parlementia, grab a longboard and check out the mellower inside section, or just sit on the cliffs and watch the show when the swell is huge.

La Torche

Conditions: La Torche is Brittany’s most famous surf spot, and it offers a totally different experience from the southwest coast. The waves here are consistent and fun, but the biggest factor is the wind – Brittany is known for its wild weather, so be ready for offshore storms and changing conditions. The main break at La Torche is a long, peeling beach break that works best on mid to high tide.

Best Time to Surf: Autumn and winter (September to March) bring solid swells and fewer crowds. Summer is smaller but great for beginners and intermediates.

Vibe: The vibe here is raw and adventurous. Brittany’s surf scene is tight-knit but welcoming, and there’s a real connection to nature here. Expect fewer crowds than Hossegor or Biarritz, but also colder water and rugged conditions.

Getting There: La Torche is in the Finistère region of Brittany, about a 2-hour drive from Nantes or Rennes. A car is essential for exploring the surrounding coastline.

Bring a good wetsuit (4/3mm at minimum, 5/4mm in winter) because the water is cold year-round. If La Torche is too crowded, check nearby spots like Pors Carn or Pointe de la Torche for more secluded waves.

Capbreton

Conditions: Capbreton sits right next to Hossegor, but it often flies under the radar. The waves here are just as powerful, thanks to the deep underwater canyon (the famous “Gouf de Capbreton”) that funnels swells straight to the beach. La Piste and Santocha are two of the best spots – expect fast, hollow waves that get heavy on big days. There are also some more mellow peaks further south, making it a versatile surf zone.

Best Time to Surf: Autumn (September to November) for big, clean swells and fewer people. Winter can be intense, while summer is smaller but fun.

Vibe: Capbreton is a bit more low-key than Hossegor, which makes it a great place to escape the madness. The local surf scene is strong, but it’s not as aggressive as some of the more famous breaks. There’s a good mix of pros, experienced surfers, and travellers looking for quality waves without the crowds.

Getting There: Capbreton is just a 5-minute drive south of Hossegor. If you’re flying in, Biarritz Airport is about 40 minutes away by car.

If the main peaks are crowded, walk south towards VVF Beach or La Savane for more open waves. Capbreton’s fishing port is also a great place to grab fresh seafood after your session.

Best Time of Year to Surf in France

France is a year-round surf destination, but the conditions change a lot from season to season. Here’s what to expect in each season.

Winter (November – March) – For the Hardcore Surfers

Winter in France is all about big waves, heavy conditions, and empty lineups. The North Atlantic is pumping, sending powerful swells straight into the Bay of Biscay.

If you’re an experienced surfer, this is the time to score some of the best waves of the year.

Waves: Heavy, powerful, and often big. Spots like La Gravière in Hossegor and Plage Centrale in Lacanau can be firing.
Crowds: Almost none – only the hardcore locals and travelling chargers are out.
Weather & Water: It’s cold. You’ll need at least a 4/3mm wetsuit, and if you’re surfing deep into winter, boots and earplugs are a good idea. The Atlantic can be stormy, so expect windy days and unpredictable conditions.
Best for: Advanced surfers who don’t mind battling the elements for perfect barrels.

Spring (April – June) – Clean, Fun Waves for Intermediates

Spring is when things start to settle down. The winter swells mellow out, and you get cleaner, more manageable waves.

It’s a sweet spot for intermediate surfers looking for fun conditions without the summer crowds.

Waves: Medium-sized, glassy, and more user-friendly than winter. Perfect for refining your skills.
Crowds: Still quiet, especially in April and May. By June, it starts to get busier.
Weather & Water: Air temps are warming up, but the water is still chilly. A 3/2mm wetsuit will be fine by late spring.
Best for: Intermediates and confident beginners looking for fun, clean waves before the summer rush.

Summer (July – August) – Perfect for Beginners & Party Vibes

Summer in France is all about small, fun waves and good times. The big winter swells are long gone, replaced by mellow beach breaks that are perfect for learning.

The surf schools and camps are in full swing, and the beach towns are buzzing with energy.

Waves: Smaller, softer, and super beginner-friendly. Think waist-to-chest-high peelers at Seignosse, Mimizan, and Anglet.
Crowds: Massive. Every surf town is packed with tourists, and the lineups are busy, especially at famous spots like Biarritz and Hossegor.
Weather & Water: Warm and sunny. You can surf in board shorts or a shorty wetsuit.
Best for: Beginners, surf campers, and anyone looking for a fun, social surf trip.

Autumn (September – October) – The Best Time of Year to Surf

If you could pick just one season to surf in France, autumn is the winner. The summer crowds disappear, the water is still warm, and the Atlantic starts sending proper swells again.

It’s the perfect balance of solid waves, good weather, and manageable crowds.

Waves: A mix of everything – small, fun days and heavy, barreling sessions. The variety makes it great for all levels.
Crowds: Much quieter than summer, but not totally empty. Locals are out enjoying the prime conditions.
Weather & Water: Still warm! You can get away with a 3/2mm wetsuit, and September often has board short-friendly days.
Best for: Everyone. Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or advanced surfer, autumn delivers.

Local Tips for Surfing in France

Here are some insider tips that’ll help you score the best waves, avoid common mistakes, and make the most of your time in the land of baguettes and barrels.

Tides Matter More Than You Think

French beach breaks change drastically with the tide. A spot that’s firing at low tide can turn into mush at high tide, and vice versa. Check the tide charts before paddling out.

In general:

Low tide = Hollow, punchy waves (especially in Hossegor).
Mid-tide = Best all-around conditions.
High tide = Often too fat, but some spots work (like La Côte des Basques in Biarritz).

Sandbanks Are Key

The west coast of France is all about shifting sandbanks. They move constantly, so last year’s magic peak might be gone.

The best banks form after big winter swells, which means spring and autumn usually offer the most consistent and well-shaped waves.

Locals always check the banks before surfing. Walk the beach, watch a few sets, and see where the best waves are breaking before you paddle out.

Crowds Can Be Brutal (But There Are Ways Around Them)

In summer, the famous spots (Hossegor, Biarritz, Anglet) are packed. If you don’t want to fight for waves:

Surf early – before 9 AM, most crowds are still in bed.
Go north – Landes has miles of empty beaches outside the main towns.
Be friendly – locals appreciate respect, and a little French goes a long way.

Wind Can Ruin a Session Fast

The Atlantic morning glass is real, but by noon, the wind often picks up. If you want clean waves, surf early or late in the day.

Best wind = Light offshore (east wind).
Worst wind = Strong onshore (west wind).

On windy afternoons, try surfing in protected spots like Guéthary or La Côte des Basques, where cliffs block some of the wind.

Bring the Right Wetsuit

Even in summer, the Atlantic isn’t tropical. Here’s what you’ll need:

Winter (Nov–March) → 4/3mm + boots (sometimes gloves & hood).
Spring (April–June) → 3/2mm.
Summer (July–Aug) → Boardshorts/rash guard, but a shorty or 2mm suit is useful.
Autumn (Sept–Oct) → 3/2mm, but you can still get some warm days.

The water gets warmest in September after a long summer of sunshine. Check out our guide on how to choose a wetsuit to help you come prepared.

Know the Locals’ Breaks (And Maybe Avoid Them)

Some spots in France are local-heavy, and unless you’re very good at reading lineup dynamics, it’s best to surf elsewhere. A few places where locals rule the peak:

La Nord (Hossegor) – Heavy water, heavy locals.
Les Cavaliers (Anglet) – Crowded, competitive, and powerful.
Guéthary – Big wave spot; not for beginners.

If you do paddle out at a local spot, be respectful. Don’t snake waves, wait your turn, and don’t roll up with a massive crew.

Eat Like a Local (and Avoid Tourist Traps)

Surfing in France means good food. Skip the overpriced tourist spots and hit the local favourites:

Post-surf breakfast: Grab a croissant or pain au chocolat from a real boulangerie, not a supermarket.
Lunch: A classic baguette sandwich (ham, butter, cheese) is cheap and delicious.
Dinner: Basque Country has the best food – try a pintxos bar in Biarritz.
For cheap beers, head to the local cafés instead of touristy beach bars.

Wild Camping is (Sort of) Illegal, But Everyone Does It

If you’re road-tripping in a van, you’ll quickly realise that France isn’t as camper-friendly as Portugal or Spain. Technically, wild camping is banned in many areas, but if you follow these rules, you’ll usually be fine:

Don’t park up in tourist hotspots like Hossegor’s main beach.
Stay low-key – no setting up tables, chairs, or BBQs.
Best spots – Look for quiet car parks near smaller beaches or in the forests of Landes.

We’ve got an insightful guide on wild camping in Europe for more useful tips and tricks. Check it out before you go.

The Best Surf Shops Are in Hossegor

Need gear? Hossegor is Europe’s surf capital, with tons of surf shops and outlet stores.

You’ll find everything from high-end custom boards to discounted wetsuits from Rip Curl, Quiksilver, and Billabong.

Watch Out for Strong Currents & Shorebreaks

France’s beach breaks can be deceiving. They look mellow from the sand, but once you’re in, rip currents can be strong.

The shore break at La Gravière and Les Estagnots is no joke – it’ll slam you if you don’t time your exit right.

If you’re unsure, watch where the locals paddle out – they know the easiest way to get through the waves.

Travelling to France for a Surf Trip

Overall, a surf trip to France is about so much more than just catching waves – it’s the whole experience.

To help make the most of it, here are a few extra bits of info to keep in mind.

Getting to France for a Surf Trip

France is easy to get to whether you’re flying, driving, or taking the train.

If you’re flying in, Bordeaux (BOD) and Biarritz (BIQ) are the best airports for the southwest surf spots. Paris (CDG) is a major hub, but you’ll need a train or rental car to reach the coast.

If you’re road-tripping, the A63 highway runs straight down to Hossegor from northern Europe.

Trains are also an option – the TGV from Paris to Biarritz takes about 4 hours.

France Travel Attractions

Even if you’re here for the waves, France has plenty to explore. Between sessions, wander through Biarritz’s old town, eat fresh seafood in Saint-Jean-de-Luz, or take a day trip to San Sebastián, Spain.

If you’re in the north, check out Mont Saint-Michel in Normandy or the standing stones of Carnac in Brittany. Love wine? The vineyards of Bordeaux are just a short drive from the coast.

And of course, Paris is always worth a visit if you have extra time.

Where to Stay for a Surf Trip

France has tons of options for surf-friendly accommodation. If you want to be right on the beach, check out the campsites around Les Culs Nus in Hossegor.

Budget travellers can find hostels in Biarritz like Surf Hostel Biarritz. For more comfort, there are beachside hotels in Anglet and cool Airbnbs in Seignosse.

If you’re road-tripping in a van, there are plenty of wild camping spots in Landes, as long as you keep things low-key.

Surfing in France: FAQs

Does France have good surfing?

Yes! France has some of the best beach breaks in the world, especially along the southwest coast. Spots like Hossegor, Biarritz, and Lacanau are famous for their powerful, consistent waves.

Where can beginners surf in France?

Beginners should check out Mimizan or Biarritz’s Côte des Basques. These spots have gentler, rolling waves that are perfect for learning. Surf schools and camps are everywhere, so you’ll have plenty of options.

When can you surf in France?

You can surf year-round, but the best season depends on your level. Summer (June–August) is great for beginners, while autumn (September–October) offers the best mix of warm water and great waves. Winter is for experts only – expect big, heavy surf.

What is the famous wave in France?

La Gravière in Hossegor is the most famous. It’s a world-class, fast, hollow beach break that hosts top surf competitions. When it’s firing, it delivers some of the heaviest barrels in Europe.

Do you need a wetsuit to surf in France?

Yes, unless it’s peak summer. A 3/2mm wetsuit is fine for spring and autumn, but in winter, you’ll need a 4/3mm or thicker, plus booties and maybe gloves. The Atlantic gets cold.

Does France have big waves?

Definitely. Winter swells bring huge, heavy surf to spots like Belharra (France’s biggest wave), La Nord in Hossegor, and Guéthary. These spots can see waves over 30 feet when conditions are right.

Why is Biarritz good for surfing?

Biarritz has waves for all levels, from mellow rollers at Côte des Basques to punchier waves at Grand Plage. It’s also a beautiful surf town, packed with history, great food, and a laid-back vibe. Plus, it’s one of the birthplaces of European surfing!

Wrapping Up

Surfing in France is more than just the waves – it’s the whole experience.

You’ll paddle out in the morning, eat fresh seafood at lunch, and sip wine as the sun sets over the Atlantic.

Whether you score perfect barrels in Hossegor or just cruise fun summer waves in Seignosse, you’ll leave stoked and sunburned, already planning your next trip.

Want to extend your surf trip after France? Check out our guide to surfing in Portugal.