Surf Camps in Landes

Ride the legendary beach breaks of Landes, France! This iconic stretch of coastline offers world-class waves for all levels, from fun summer peelers to powerful autumn barrels. Discover the heart of European surfing.

The Legendary Surf of Landes

The Landes department, located in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of Southwest France, is a true surfing paradise. Its coastline, known as the Côte d'Argent (Silver Coast), stretches for over 100km and is home to some of the best beach breaks in the world. The area is renowned for its consistent and powerful waves, which attract surfers from all over the globe. The unique combination of a deep offshore trench and a gently sloping sandy bottom creates the perfect conditions for hollow, barreling waves.

World-Class Waves and Breaks

Landes is all about beach breaks. The sandbanks are constantly shifting, which means that the waves can be different every day. This makes it an exciting and challenging place to surf, as you never know what you're going to get. Some of the most famous surf spots in Landes include:

Hossegor: Known as the "surfing capital of Europe," Hossegor is home to some of the most powerful and hollow waves in the world. La Gravière and La Nord are two of the most famous spots, and they regularly host international surfing competitions.
Seignosse: Just north of Hossegor, Seignosse offers a variety of beach breaks that are suitable for all levels. Le Penon and Les Bourdaines are two of the most popular spots.
Capbreton: This spot is known for its powerful shore breaks, which are best suited for experienced surfers.

Best Time to Catch a Wave

The best time to surf in Landes depends on your skill level.

Summer (June-August): The waves are generally smaller and more manageable, making it the perfect time for beginners to learn. The water is also warmer, and the weather is usually sunny.
Autumn (September-November): This is the best time of year for experienced surfers. The swells are bigger and more consistent, and the waves are often world-class. The water is still relatively warm, and the crowds are smaller than in the summer.
Spring (March-May): Spring can also be a good time to surf in Landes, with a mix of smaller and larger swells.
Winter (December-February): Winter brings the biggest and most powerful waves, but the weather can be cold and stormy. This time of year is only recommended for expert surfers.

A Destination for Every Surfer

Landes has something to offer surfers of all levels. Beginners can take lessons at one of the many surf schools along the coast, while intermediate and advanced surfers can challenge themselves on the world-class waves. The long, sandy beaches mean that there is plenty of space for everyone, and you can always find a spot to surf, even on the busiest days.

The Unique Vibe of Landes

What makes Landes so special is its unique combination of world-class waves, beautiful scenery, and vibrant surf culture. The coastline is backed by a huge pine forest, which provides a stunning backdrop to the surf. The towns of Hossegor, Seignosse, and Capbreton are full of surf shops, cafes, and bars, and there is a real buzz about the place. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a complete beginner, you're sure to have an unforgettable surfing experience in Landes.

Autumn, from September to November, is widely considered the best time for surfing in Landes, offering world-class waves, pleasant weather, and fewer crowds. Spring, from April to June, is also excellent with consistent swells and warming water. Summer (July-August) is perfect for beginners, with smaller, more gentle waves and warm water, though the beaches can be very crowded. Winter brings powerful and heavy waves, suitable only for the most experienced and daring surfers.

Landes caters to all skill levels. The region is famous for its numerous beach breaks, which offer different conditions depending on the spot and the season. During the summer, spots like Hossegor Plage Centrale or Le Pénon in Seignosse are ideal for beginners, with many surf schools available. For intermediate and advanced surfers, the powerful and hollow waves of world-renowned spots like La Gravière and Les Culs Nus provide a serious challenge, especially in the autumn.

The Atlantic water temperature in Landes varies significantly throughout the year. In the peak summer months of July and August, the water is a pleasant 20-23°C (68-73°F), where a shorty or even just boardshorts might suffice. During the spring and autumn, expect temperatures between 14-19°C (57-66°F), making a 3/2mm or 4/3mm wetsuit necessary. In winter, the water temperature drops to a chilly 11-13°C (52-55°F), requiring a full 5/4mm wetsuit, along with boots and gloves.

Aside from your surfboard and seasonal wetsuit, high-SPF sunscreen is a must-have. The Atlantic sun can be intense, even on cloudy days. Also pack a good quality beach towel, a hat, and sunglasses. For post-surf sessions, bring comfortable, casual clothing and a warm jacket or hoodie for the cooler evenings. It's also wise to have some basic first-aid items for minor scrapes. If you're not bringing your own board, you can easily find a rental shop at any main beach.

Landes is a hub of French culinary tradition, deeply rooted in 'gastronomie du terroir' (local cuisine). The area is famous for its duck products, including 'confit de canard' (duck confit) and 'magret de canard' (duck breast), as well as foie gras. Don't miss trying a 'salade landaise'. The culture is a relaxed blend of surf lifestyle and rural French heritage. You'll find lively night markets, local festivals ('ferias') with traditional music and dancing, and the unique sport of Course Landaise (a form of bull-leaping).

Costs can vary widely based on your style of travel. A bed in a shared dorm at a surf camp can start from €30-€50 per night, while private rooms or apartments will be more. A week-long surf camp package, including accommodation, lessons, and sometimes food, can range from €400 to over €1000. Food is reasonably priced, especially if you shop at local markets. Expect to pay around €35-€45 for a single group surf lesson.

The powerful beach breaks of Landes are its main attraction but also a primary hazard. Strong currents and rips are common, so it's crucial to know how to spot and handle them. The shifting sandbanks can create unpredictable conditions. Crowds, especially in summer, can be a hazard in themselves. Always surf within your limits, and if in doubt, don't go out. It's recommended to surf at lifeguarded beaches and pay attention to the flag warning system.

Absolutely! You can explore the vast pine forests ('Forêt des Landes') by bike on the extensive network of cycle paths. Visit the chic coastal towns of Hossegor and Capbreton for shopping and dining. Discover the Courant d'Huchet, a stunning nature reserve often called the 'Amazon of Landes'. For a family day out, there are several large lakes, like at Biscarrosse or Léon, offering calm waters for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking.