Surfing in the Landes, France
The Landes boasts 106 km of coastline, world-class waves and a unique surf culture in Europe. From Biscarrosse to Labenne, via Hossegor, Seignosse and Capbreton, the region offers spots for every level. Discover where and how to surf in the Landes with Santocha, Capbreton's surf club since 1975.
106 km
of Atlantic coastline
30+
surf spots
365
days of waves per year
18-22C
water in summer
The spots
The best surf spots in the Landes
The Capbreton-Hossegor-Seignosse triangle is home to some of the best beach breaks in Europe. Each spot has its own character.
Capbreton — Le Santocha
Beginner to advanced
Our home spot! Beach break over sand, consistent waves, ideal for learning. Less crowded than Hossegor, family-friendly atmosphere. The Santocha club is on site with equipment hire and lessons.
Discover the spotHossegor — La Graviere
Expert
The most famous shore break in Europe. Powerful hollow waves, reserved for very experienced surfers. Hosts WSL international competitions.
Seignosse — Les Estagnots
Intermediate to advanced
One of the most consistent spots on the Landes coast. Quality waves over sand, perfect for progression. Can be powerful on big swells.
Hossegor — La Sud
Beginner to intermediate
More accessible than La Graviere, with less powerful waves. A good spot to progress in Hossegor when conditions are moderate.
Seignosse — Les Bourdaines
All levels
Beach break with varied waves depending on sandbars. Good alternative to Les Estagnots when it is too big. Relaxed atmosphere.
And also: Prevent (Capbreton), La Nord (Hossegor), Messanges, Moliets, Vieux-Boucau, Mimizan, Biscarrosse...
Our recommendation
Why choose Capbreton for surfing in the Landes?
Capbreton is the ideal gateway to surfing in the Landes. Located between Hossegor (Europe's surf capital) and the Basque Country, this seaside town offers the best balance of wave quality and accessibility.
The Gouf de Capbreton, a unique underwater canyon in Europe, influences currents and creates sandbars that produce consistent waves year-round. The result: varied surf conditions, from perfect small summer days ideal for beginners to muscular autumn sessions for experienced surfers.
Unlike Hossegor, often packed in season, Capbreton's beaches remain more accessible. Santocha Beach is one of the most pleasant spots on the Landes coast for learning and progressing in a relaxed setting.
Seasons
When to surf in the Landes
Spring
March – May
Swell still present, water at 13-16C. Few crowds. Excellent wave-to-crowd ratio. 4/3mm wetsuit.
Summer
June – September
Small consistent waves, water at 18-22C. Perfect conditions for learning. Book ahead! Shorty or 3/2mm.
Autumn
October – November
The best season for experienced surfers. Powerful swells, water still mild (15-18C). Memorable sessions. 4/3mm wetsuit.
Winter
December – February
Big swells, expert-level spots. Water at 10-13C. Committed sessions between Hossegor and Capbreton. 5/4mm wetsuit + boots.
Surf school
Learn to surf in the Landes with Santocha
Based in Capbreton, Santocha is the oldest surf club in town. Our options cater to every profile.
Surf Lessons
Group (8 max) or private. 2 hours, all equipment included. State-certified instructors.
From 36EUR/session (5-pack)Bodyboard Lessons
With Derek Crater, specialist bodyboard coach. Introduction and progression.
From 36EUR/session (5-pack)Equipment Rental
Surfboards, bodyboards and wetsuits. Right on Santocha Beach.
From 5EUR/hourPractical
Getting to the Landes for surfing
How to get here
- By car: A63 motorway, Capbreton/Labenne exit
- By train: Dax or Bayonne station, then XL'R bus
- By plane: Biarritz airport (30 min)
Where to stay
- Campsites: Many around Capbreton and Seignosse
- Rentals: Flats and houses near the beach
- Surf houses: Specialised surf accommodation
Good to know
- Book lessons in advance during summer
- Conditions change with the tide
- Check the webcam before coming
Frequently asked questions about surfing in the Landes
Where can you learn to surf in the Landes?
The Landes has dozens of surf schools between Biscarrosse and Labenne. In Capbreton, Santocha Surf Club is the only community surf club in town, founded in 1975. Our state-certified instructors welcome you at Santocha Beach, an ideal spot for beginners.
What is the best beginner surf spot in the Landes?
For beginners, the beaches of Capbreton (Santocha, Prevent), La Sud in Hossegor and Le Penon in Seignosse are the most suitable. The Santocha spot in Capbreton is particularly recommended: sandy bottom, consistent waves and fewer crowds than Hossegor.
What is the best time of year to surf in the Landes?
You can surf in the Landes year-round! Summer (June to September) offers gentle conditions perfect for beginners. Spring and autumn are the best seasons for experienced surfers, with more consistent swells and fewer people in the water.
How much does a surf lesson cost in the Landes?
Prices typically range from 35EUR to 60EUR for a 2-hour group lesson depending on the school. At Santocha in Capbreton, a group lesson is 50EUR per session (equipment included), and the 5-lesson pack works out to just 36EUR/session (180EUR).
Can you surf in the Landes in winter?
Yes, the Landes has waves all year round. In winter, swells are more powerful and suited to experienced surfers. Water drops to 10-12C: a 4/3mm or even 5/3mm wetsuit is essential. Santocha offers lessons and equipment hire even in the off-season.
What is the difference between Hossegor, Seignosse and Capbreton for surfing?
Hossegor is famous for its powerful waves (La Graviere, La Nord) suited to advanced surfers. Seignosse (Les Estagnots, Les Bourdaines) offers a good all-levels compromise. Capbreton, with Santocha Beach, is the most accessible spot for beginners and families, with fewer crowds.
Book your surf lesson in Capbreton
Group and private lessons on Santocha Beach, in the heart of the Landes.
Discover surfing in Capbreton
Santocha, the only community surf club in Capbreton since 1975. Join the adventure!