Surfing Guide to Hossegor, France

 

• Summary

• When to go

• Surf Camps

• Where to stay

• Getting there

• Safety/Things to know

• Surf spots

Summary

Hossegor, France is one of the most iconic beach breaks in the world and a must-visit surf destination in Europe. Located in the Landes region of southwest France, Hossegor is famous for its heavy, barreling waves that consistently attract the world’s best surfers.

Every year, the town hosts the World Surf League for various qualifying events, solidifying its reputation as a global surf mecca.

 

 
The town of Hossegor itself revolves around surfing which gives it a very nice vibe. Wide beaches, young crowd, good nightlife and pleasant weather are all good ingredients for a perfect surf trip.

 
On top of that Hossegor is very close to some other cool surf towns like San Sebastian or Biarritz which are absolutely stunning to visit.

 
 

 

When to go

Even though waves peak in size over winter, the best time to surf Hossegor, France is from May to November as the temperatures rise and the surf vibe takes over in town. Beginners will want to aim for the months of June to September.

Advanced surfers will definitely enjoy the winter months which can offer insane surfing conditions.

 

 

 

Surf Camps in Hossegor

Find a Surf Camp in Hossegor, starting at US$1,095

 

 

Where to stay in Hossegor

Browse our interactive map to find the best accommodation deals in Hossegor!

Best Surf Hotels in Hossegor

La Belle Vie Capbreton

Hotel 202

 

Getting there

There are many ways to get to Hossegor. The nearest airport is in Biarritz, less than 25km away. Trains and buses also run from Paris.

 

 

 

Safety/things to know

-Visit the official tourism department website for visa information.
-Tricky beach break
-Strong currents
-Dramatic tides
-A lot of paddling (and duck diving) is required
 

Surf spots in Hossegor

La Sud

A very friendly beach break that never gets too big or dumpy. Perfect spot for kids or beginners.

Wave direction : Right and left
Bottom : Sand
Best tide : Any
Skill level : Any
Optimal swell direction : W
Optimal wind direction : E
 
 

 

La Nord

Doesn’t work unless a 6-8ft+ swell rolls in, La Nord is Hossegor’s big wave surfing spot.

Wave direction : Right and left
Bottom : Sand
Best tide : Any
Skill level : Advanced
Optimal swell direction : W
Optimal wind direction : E
 
 

La Graviere

This is Hossegor’s main attraction. A world-class beach break producing amazing barrels, especially in autumn and winter.

Wave direction : Right and left
Bottom : Sand
Best tide : Low
Skill level : Advanced
Optimal swell direction : W
Optimal wind direction : E
 
 

Capbreton

La Pointe

A more sheltered beach break with easier paddling and smaller, fun waves. A great option when other spots are too big.

Wave direction : Right and left
Bottom : Sand
Best tide : Mid to high
Skill level : Any
Optimal swell direction : W
Optimal wind direction : E
 
 

Le Prevent

Consistent, forgiving peaks that work across a range of tides and are well-suited to beginners and intermediates. Less intense than Hossegor’s main breaks.

Wave direction : Right and left
Bottom : Sand
Best tide : Low to mid
Skill level : Any
Optimal swell direction : W
Optimal wind direction : E
 

Seignosse

Les Culs-nuls

A slightly less crowded alternative to La Gravière with similar powerful beach break conditions. Can handle solid swells and offers great barrels.

Wave direction : Right and left
Bottom : Sand
Best tide : Any
Skill level : Any
Optimal swell direction : W-NW
Optimal wind direction : E
 
 

Les Estagnots

A consistent, high-energy beach break with punchy peaks. Popular with both locals and traveling surfers, it’s one of the area’s most reliable spots.

Wave direction : Right and left
Bottom : Sand
Best tide : Any
Skill level : Any
Optimal swell direction : W-NW
Optimal wind direction : E