Surfing in France
France, with its 5,500 km of coastline including 1,500 km of Atlantic coastline, is one of Europe’s finest surfing destinations.
From the beaches of the Landes to the Basque coves, via Brittany and Normandy, France’s surf spots attract beginners and experienced surfers alike all year round.
As Europe’s surfing cradle since the 1950s, France combines a well-established surfing culture, appropriate infrastructures and an exceptional diversity of waves.
Surfing in France - Practical information
Surfing
- Level: All levels (from beginner to expert, depending on the spot)
- Wave types: Beach-breaks, reef-breaks, point-breaks
- Type of seabed: Mainly sandy, some rocky areas
- When to go: All year round
- Best period: September to November
- Average water temperature: 12°C (winter) to 22°C (summer)
- Average ground temperature: 5-10°C (winter) to 20-30°C (summer)
Before you leave
- Time zone difference: None (mainland France)
- Flight time (from Paris): 1h-1h30 to Biarritz, Bordeaux
- Nearest airport: Biarritz, Bordeaux, Nantes (depending on destination)
- Journey time to site: 30min-1h from airports
- Documents required: Identity card (EU) or passport
- Vaccines required: None
- Recommended vaccinations: Standard vaccinations up to date
On site
- Language spoken: French, English in tourist areas
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Cost of living: Medium to high (depending on season and region)
- Safety: High, beach surveillance in season
- Getting around: Car rental recommended, limited public transport outside major cities, bicycles in some coastal areas.
Surf destinations in France
Surf spots in France
Surfcamps in France
When should you go surfing in France?
Want to know when to go surfing in France? Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate or advanced surfer, each season has its own particularities.
Waves, swells, water temperature, crowds…
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover the best times for a perfect session to suit your level.
Get your board ready, we’re boarding!
Preparing your surf travel in France
When is the best time to surf in France?
The best time depends on your level and preferences. Autumn (September-October) is generally considered the ideal season, offering an excellent compromise between wave quality and pleasant weather conditions. Summer is more suitable for beginners with smaller waves, while winter offers the most powerful waves for experienced surfers.
What are the best surf spots in France for beginners?
The best spots for beginners are :
- Hendaye (Basque Country): gentle waves and a protected beach
- Biarritz Grande Plage: regular waves and numerous schools
- Lacanau (Gironde): supervised beach with beginners’ zones
- La Torche (Brittany): extensive beach with several accessible peaks
- Seignosse Les Bourdaines (Landes): less crowded than Hossegor and gentler waves
Do I need a wetsuit to surf in France, and which one should I choose?
Yes, you need a wetsuit all year round on France’s Atlantic coast:
- Summer (June-September): 2mm shorty or 3/2mm wetsuit
- Spring/fall: 4/3mm suit
- Winter: 5/4mm wetsuit with balaclava, gloves and booties
Water temperature varies from 10°C in winter to 22°C in summer on the Atlantic, and is slightly warmer in the Mediterranean.
How much does a surf lesson cost in France?
Average rates are :
- Group course (1h30-2h): €35-45 per person
- Private lessons: €70-90 per hour
- 5-day course (10h): €150-200 per person
- Board rental only: €15-25 per day, €60-80 per week
FFS (Fédération Française de Surf) accredited schools guarantee quality teaching.
Can you surf in the French Mediterranean?
Yes, but conditions are less regular than on the Atlantic.
Waves are usually present during autumn and winter storms. Summer offers few surfing opportunities in the Mediterranean, apart from a few days of mistral.
How long does it take to learn to surf?
For the basics (standing and sliding in a straight line) :
- 1 to 3-day course for most beginners
- 1 to 2 weeks to acquire a degree of autonomy
- Several months of regular practice to master basic maneuvers
Progression depends on your physical condition, age, previous experience in board sports and frequency of practice.
Which surfboard should you choose to start surfing in France?
For beginners, choose :
- Type: softboard for first sessions, then mini Malibu or longboard
- Size: minimum 7’6″ (230 cm) for an adult, ideally 8′ to 9′ (240-270 cm)
- Volume: generally 60-80 liters for an adult
- Width: minimum 21″ (53 cm)
Avoid buying direct, preferring rental or school-supplied boards until you’ve mastered the basics. Most schools offer boards adapted to local conditions.