General Area
Not many images can top the perfect tubes on Hossegors white sand beaches. With sunbathing beauties mere metres away from heaving kegs it’s been a favourite summertime destination for many throughout the years. The French Basque country is abound with bowling barrels, beachside bars and manic festivals in the warmer months which unfortunately draw in plenty of crowds. Optimal times for good waves and emptier lineups are in the autumn and spring. Despite the huge popularity of the southwest the rest of the French coast offers great wave riding potential from Bordeaux to Brittany. Definitely not a budget destination but be sure to try the moule frites, mussels and fries, with a nice and neat white wine.
The Surf
The Sand banks around hossegor are a freak of nature and are widely regarded as the best beach breaks in the world. Breaks in Hossegor such as La Nord are some of the heaviest beach breaks in the world and are suited to experienced surfers. Deep ocean swells from the bay of Biscay unload on shallow sand banks to produce barrels a short distance from the shore. There is however miles and miles of beach breaks to choose from which can suit most abilities. The surf is generally powerful in the Hossegor region and isn’t always suitable to beginners but is often good for intermediate surfers.
Climate
Due to ocean currents France has the warmest water in Europe and most surfers wear boardies all summer. In the shoulder months a thermal rashy or shorty will do especially for early morning surfs. The air is in the 25 to 35 degree range and can get hot in the middle of the day. The sea breezes can ruin the surf so the early morning is often the best time for a wave.
