France “enjoys” the same reputation that basically all European countries have when referring to surfing. There is this belief that there are no options that are available. That is definitely incorrect. The truth is that France was actually the very first of all European countries to experience surfing. It happened at the beginning of the Fifties. Ever since then it managed to develop quite a strong surf culture. France offers some of the best possible experience for European surfers.
The interested surfer can find almost 300 kilometers of beach breaks. This basically means that there is a huge opportunity of available waves of all levels and sizes. To make matters even better, France is renowned for the impressive night life, great food, wine and cheese. When referring strictly to surfing, you should be aware of the fact that various championships take place in France, including WCT Quicksilver Pro.
If you want to enjoy surfing in France, here are some spots that gained the title of best opportunities according to tourist popularity.
Estagnots
Estagnots is located in the Hossegor area. It is a highly popular surfing spot that is home to the WCT event. On the best days it will offer hollow left hand waves on practically all the tides. Sandybanks will change a little every year but the consistency is something that keeps surfers coming back. Close to Estagnots you can also go surfing in other areas.
La Sauzaie
Here you can find an A-frame reef break that will offer perfect hollow lefts and rights with short but quite heavy barrels. This is an area that is not well known, located in Central France. WQS Pays De La Loire Surf Pro is hosted yearly.
La Graviere
Graviere is located among moving banks and shifting peaks. It is a constant in the Hossegor surging region. During summer you will love the friendly waves and during autumn and winter, the experienced surfers will experience really heavy waves.
Lacanau
Lacanau is currently on the list of every single surfer that wants to visit France. The surfing tradition here is strictly tied to the Lancanau Pro, which has been held ever since 1979. On a good day there are miles of hollow, powerful and consistent beachbrakes. Lancanau is renowned for the big waves but there are also various small to medium sized swells that beginner surfers can enjoy.
Les Casernes
There is a long beach stretch present with practically countless possibilities for surfers of different levels. If we were to choose one surf spot in France where to direct beginners, this is the one that will be recommended.
Lafitenia
When compared to Hossegor, this location was not at all crowded in the past. However, ever since the 2000 Quicksilver World Masters, many surfers were attracted. We have a very interesting experience that is offered since there are different sections that are challenging and some sections that are relatively easy. We can say that a complete surfing experience is available in Lafitenia.
Les Cavaliers
Another France A-frame with tremendous waves, located in the Biarritz surfing area. You will find fast and hollow tides from both sides. Sometimes this location is highly popular. In other times you can enjoy surfing alone.
Do you know of another great surf spot in France that we might have missed? Let us know! We love to hear about new regions you can enjoy.
