Surfing in Capbreton
Capbreton is one of Europe’s surfing capitals, nestling on the Landes coast in south-west France.
With its long sandy beaches, powerful and varied spots, and proximity to Hossegor and Seignosse, it’s a must-see destination for surfers of all levels.
Easily accessible, Capbreton combines quality surfing, a friendly atmosphere and wild nature to make surfing in France a pleasure.
Surfing in Capbreton - Practical information
Surfing
- Level: All levels
- Type of waves: Powerful, hollow, fast, sometimes tubular
- Bottom type: Sand (beach break)
- When to go: All year round
- Best period: Autumn (September to November)
- Average water temperature: 13°C (winter) to 22°C (summer)
- Average air temperature: 10°C (winter) to 26°C (summer)
- Swell direction: West / Northwest
- Wave orientation: left & right
Before you leave
- Time difference: None from Paris
- Flight time from Paris: Approx. 1h20
- Nearest airport: Biarritz Pays Basque (BIQ)
- Journey time to Capbreton: 45 minutes by car from Biarritz
- Nearest train station: Bayonne (TGV) or Dax (TGV) – about 30 min drive
- Journey time to site: 10 min by car from the airport
- Documents required: Valid identity card or passport
- Vaccines required: None
- Recommended vaccines: RAS for France
On site
- Language spoken: French
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Cost of living: Medium to high (tourist town)
- Safety: Very good
- Getting around: On foot, by bike, or by local shuttle bus in summer
What makes surfing in Capbreton so special?
Le Gouf de Capbreton: the secret of the Landes waves
Capbreton is home to a giant hidden beneath the ocean: the Gouf, an underwater canyon 20 times longer than Colorado’s Grand Canyon. This giant funnel captures the energy of the Atlantic, transforming swells into unique waves thanks to its “head” located 300 meters from the beach.
Thanks to this exceptional geology, you’ll always find waves in Capbreton, whether it’s La Piste for more experienced surfers or l’Estacade for quieter sessions.
Where to surf in Capbreton? The best spots for every level
Beginners’ spots: your first foams in complete safety
In Capbreton, beginners will find suitable beaches with gentle waves and sandy bottoms. Le Prévent remains a must for first-time surfers.
North of Santocha, the waves are more forgiving, with safe areas supervised by surf schools. This is
To get you off to a good start, this comprehensive guide details the key steps. It’s also one of the best spots in France for beginnersthanks to its combination of safety and pedagogy.
Spots for intermediate surfers
For more experienced surfers, La Piste and the main Santocha peak offer deeper, faster waves. Although still accessible beach breaks, these spots attract large crowds.
Conditions vary according to tide and swell. For example, a wave of 0.6 to 0.9 meters is well suited to intermediates, although La Piste remains demanding with its “barrels” close to the edge. To check wave forecasts, apps like Ya du surf provide precise data, including wind and swell height.
Spots for experienced surfers: take on the waves on the Silver Coast
For the more experienced, the VVF or the north of La Piste offer a real challenge. When the swell is strong, these spots become demanding, with powerful waves. Hossegor’s famous spots (La Nord, La Gravière) are less than 15 minutes away by car or bike. These world-renowned spots offer perfect tubes for experts in search of thrills, especially in autumn and winter.
When to go surfing in Capbreton? Seasonal guide
The best time for your level
Capbreton offers waves all year round, but conditions vary according to the season. Summer (June to August) is perfect for beginners: small, regular waves and water at 20°C. Beware of crowded spots like La Centrale or Santocha.
Autumn (September to November) is the peak season for intermediate and advanced sailors. Regular swells (1.5m to 2.2m), soft water up to 18°C in September and fewer crowds. Discover why autumn is the locals’ favorite season. La Piste, an iconic spot, shines with clean waves.
Winter (December to February) offers the biggest waves (up to 2.2m in January). Reserved for experts ready to face cold water (11-13°C) and strong winds. February remains the month with the cleanest waves. Compare the seasons according to your level to adapt.
Spring (March to May) is a good compromise: winter swells soften (1m-1.1m), water around 14°C and less crowded spots. Perfect for progressing on Le Prévent or Les Océanides.
When to go surfing in Capbreton? Seasonal guide
The best time for your level
Capbreton offers waves all year round, but conditions vary according to the season. Summer (June to August) is perfect for beginners: small, regular waves and water at 20°C. Beware of crowded spots like La Centrale or Santocha.
Autumn (September to November) is the peak season for intermediate and advanced sailors. Regular swells (1.5m to 2.2m), soft water up to 18°C in September and fewer crowds.
Winter (December to February) offers the biggest waves (up to 2.2m in January). Reserved for experts ready to face cold water (11-13°C) and strong winds. February remains the month with the cleanest waves. Compare the seasons according to your level to adapt.
Spring (March to May) is a good compromise: winter swells soften (1m-1.1m), water around 14°C and less crowded spots. Perfect for progressing on Le Prévent or Les Océanides.
Your video / photo shoot with Aurélie from Surf Mémoriz.
Surf spots in Capbreton
What's there to do in Capbreron apart from surfing?
Capbreton offers a wide range of off-water activities. You can stroll around the marina, visit the fish market, walk along the pier built by Napoleon III, or explore the Marais d’Orx Nature Reserve.
A few kilometers away, Hossegor offers shopping, restaurants and lively bars. Cycle paths allow you to explore the Landes forest in complete tranquillity.
In the evening, the atmosphere is festive with concerts, beach bars and night markets. Last but not least, Hossegor’s golf course or a seaside yoga session are an excellent complement to surfing.
Other surfing destinations in France
Preparing your surf travel to Capbreton
Can you learn to surf in Capbreton?
Yes, several surf schools offer beginners’ courses and equipment hire. Spots like La Centrale and Santocha are ideal for beginners, with gentler waves and professional supervision.
Is Capbreton suitable for families with children?
Absolutely. There are supervised beaches in summer, designated bathing areas, and plenty of activities for children (accrobranche, skatepark, bike rides). It’s a very family-friendly town.
How busy are we in summer?
Visitor numbers are high in July and August. Spots can be crowded and traffic difficult. For a quieter stay, opt for September or June.
What are the hazards to be aware of?
Baïnes (marine currents) are common on Landes beaches. It’s important to respect supervised bathing areas and to be careful when surfing. In winter, swells can become very powerful.
Can you surf all year round in Capbreton?
Yes, even in winter. Swells are more frequent between October and April, but the water is colder. A suitable wetsuit (4/3 mm or even 5/4 in January) is essential.