An Introduction To Hossegor Surf
- Author | Matt K
- Updated | April 21, 2025
Hossegor surf, on France’s southwest coast, is world-renowned for its powerful waves energetic surf scene. With bike paths walkable streets connecting key breaks, Hossegor surf is ideal for those exploring without a car. Everything from heavy barrels to mellow rollers is within easy reach of the town center.
Plage de la Gravière is the crown jewel—just 10 minutes on foot, it serves up thick, barreling waves that attract experienced surfers from around the globe. For a more relaxed session, Plage des Estagnots offers manageable yet fun waves, perfect for intermediates.
If you’re a beginner or just want something cruisier, Plage de la Sud is a quiet, welcoming break just 15 minutes away on foot. Hossegor surf truly caters to all levels.
With surf schools, rental shops, cafés, markets lining the lively town streets, Hossegor makes it easy to dive into surf life. Whether you’re charging at La Gravière or cruising Estagnots La Sud, Hossegor surf promises a thrilling, car-free experience backed by some of Europe’s best waves.
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In This Guide
Best Time To Surf Hossegor
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Peak Hossegor Surf Season | October to March
Suited For Intermediate & Advanced
Hossegor surf is legendary from October to March, with powerful northwest swells creating some of the best beach breaks in the world. La Gravière, known for its heavy, barreling waves, delivers 4 to 10-foot surf that attracts professionals & experienced surfers from around the globe.
This is the season for fast, hollow waves, strong currents, & shifting sandbanks that challenge even the best riders. While conditions can get intense, Hossegor surf remains incredibly consistent, with plenty of breaks along the coast providing options depending on the swell size.
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Shoulder Hossegor Surf Season | April, May & September
Suited For All Skill Levels
Hossegor surf during April, May & September mellows out, offering fun, rippable waves in the 2 to 5-foot range. While the barrels of peak season are less frequent, the beach breaks still produce quality surf for all levels.
La Nord remains a standout for bigger, slower waves, while La Sud & Central Hossegor provide gentler conditions for intermediates. Hossegor surf in the shoulder season is great for those looking to refine their skills while still enjoying powerful, quality waves.
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Low Hossegor Surf Season | June to August
Suited For Beginners & Intermediate
June to August is the least powerful time for Hossegor surf, with waves mostly in the 1 to 3-foot range. While this isn’t the season for heavy barrels, it’s a perfect time for beginners to learn, with gentle waves & warm water making for ideal conditions.
La Sud is one of the best spots for summer surf, offering consistent, playful waves. While crowds peak in July, early morning sessions still provide a chance to enjoy Hossegor surf without the chaos.
Video by On The Gliss, originally published on YouTube.
Hossegor Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide
Hossegor Surf Temperature:
19–22°C (66–72°F)
What To Wear:
A 2 mm spring suit is comfortable for most surfers. On hotter days, boardshorts/bikini may be fine for short sessions, but light neoprene helps with endurance & protection.
Rainfall:
Rain is minimal with about 6–9 rainy days each month. Brief showers are possible, usually in the early morning or overnight.
Hossegor Surf Temperature:
17–21°C (63–71°F)
What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm full wetsuit is best for autumn. September still feels mild, but by late October, full suits are necessary for warmth & comfort.
Rainfall:
Rainfall increases steadily from 8 to 12 rainy days monthly. Short storms & grey days become more common later in the season.
Hossegor Surf Temperature:
12–15°C (54–59°F)
What To Wear:
You’ll want a 4/3 mm wetsuit with boots. Add a hood & gloves on windier or colder mornings for better comfort & longer sessions.
Rainfall:
Expect 11–14 rainy days per month. This is the wettest part of the year, with regular storm systems & sustained periods of rain.
Hossegor Surf Temperature:
14–18°C (57–64°F)
What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm wetsuit works well throughout spring. The water warms gradually, so early spring still calls for full gear, while May begins to feel more forgiving.
Rainfall:
Rainfall decreases to about 7–10 days per month. Conditions become more settled, with increasing sunshine & fewer wet days.
Surf Spots Within 5km or 3 Miles From Hossegor
| Hossegor Surf Spots | Distance from Hossegor | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Plage de la Gravière |
Approx. 1km (0.6mi) south |
4-10 foot |
Powerful, barrelling beach break |
Intermediate to advanced |
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Plage des Estagnots |
Approx. 2km (1.2mi) north |
3-6 foot |
Mellow beach break |
Beginner to intermediate |
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Plage de la Sud |
Approx. 1km (0.6mi) south |
3-5 foot |
Gentle beach break |
Beginner to intermediate |
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Plage de la Piste |
Approx. 5km (3.1mi) south |
4-8 foot |
Long rides with powerful breaks |
Intermediate to advanced |
Further Information To Hossegor Surf Spots
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to high tide
- Wind: East
- Swell Direction: West or northwest
- Crowd Factor: High
Plage de la Gravière is Hossegor’s most legendary surf spot, home to heavy, barreling beach break waves that break close to shore. On a solid west-northwest swell paired with easterly winds and mid to high tide, it transforms into a hollow tube machine. Waves here are thick, fast, and unforgiving—suited for experienced surfers who can handle heavy drops and shallow sandbanks.
Though the lineup can get very crowded, especially in autumn, the quality of the barrels keeps it a must-surf location. It regularly hosts world-class contests and delivers conditions comparable to heavier reef breaks—minus the reef. When Gravière is on, it’s one of the best beach breaks in Europe.
Rating: 5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: East
- Swell Direction: West & northwest
- Crowd Factor: High
Plage des Estagnots sits at the northern edge of Hossegor and consistently produces excellent peaks over shifting sandbars. It thrives on a west-northwest swell and east wind, with mid tide delivering the cleanest shape. The waves offer hollow lefts and rights that appeal to advanced surfers, but softer sections also provide opportunities for intermediates.
Though often overshadowed by La Gravière, Estagnots is no less powerful and benefits from having several peaks that spread out the crowd. It’s a favorite among local surfers and pros for training sessions and spontaneous tube hunts. Fast and punchy with room to roam, it’s a high-performance beach break with real bite.
Rating: 4.5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: East
- Swell Direction: West
- Crowd Factor: Moderate to high
Plage de la Sud is Hossegor’s mellowest and most accessible surf spot, making it ideal for beginners and longboarders. With a west swell and light easterly winds at mid tide, the beach break forms forgiving peaks and slower rides. It rarely barrels, but that’s part of the charm—perfect for learning or cruising on a longboard.
While it does get crowded with surf schools and novice surfers, the vibe here is friendly and laid-back. Located close to town and well-patrolled, it’s a great introduction to surfing in Hossegor. On smaller swells, it’s the go-to when heavier breaks are too demanding.
Rating: 4/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to low tide
- Wind: East
- Swell Direction: West or northwest
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
Plage de la Piste, technically located in Capbreton but within walking distance from southern Hossegor, is a versatile beach break that offers everything from fun walls to fast, barreling waves. It works best on a west-northwest swell with east winds and mid to low tide. Less crowded than La Gravière or Estagnots, it’s a favorite for those wanting consistent quality without the elbow-to-elbow vibe.
When the banks align, La Piste offers deep tubes and playful shoulders, making it suitable for experienced surfers and ambitious intermediates. The wave tends to hold size better than other nearby breaks, giving it added versatility.
Rating: 4.5/5
Travel Time To Hossegor Surf Spots
| Hossegor Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
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La Gravière |
5-10 min. |
5 min. |
Not required |
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Plage des Estagnots |
Approx. 45 min. |
Approx. 10 min. |
15 min.
(Local Bus)
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Plage de la Sud |
Approx. 15 min. |
5-10 min. |
10 min.
(Local Bus) |
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Plage de la Piste |
Approx. 60 min. |
15 min. |
10 min.
(Local Bus)
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Hossegor Surf Lessons & Surf Schools
Hossegor surf schools are among the best in Europe, offering high-level coaching & a variety of lesson options right on some of the continent’s most famous beach breaks. Surf Trip provides professional instruction tailored to all skill levels, helping you build confidence and enjoy the waves.
Surf Adventure offers personalized lessons with expert instructors, ensuring a safe and fun learning experience for beginners and advanced surfers alike. Vive Le Surf combines passionate coaching with a friendly atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to improve their skills.
Chipiron Surf School delivers high-quality lessons in a relaxed and supportive environment, perfect for families and individuals. Hossegor Surf Center provides a comprehensive surf education, offering group and private sessions designed to help you progress quickly.
With experienced instructors & programs tailored to every ability, Hossegor surf schools provide the perfect setting to build your skills.
Hossegor Surf Camp
Hossegor doesn’t currently have a dedicated surf camp, but just minutes away in Capbreton, you’ll find a fantastic option with Le Bon Mot Tours | Language Travel. This unique experience combines surf coaching with immersive French language learning, creating a dynamic & enriching stay. For more details on what this surf & language adventure offers, check out the section below.
8-Day Capbreton Surf Camp & French Learning Getaway With Le Bon Mot Tours | Language Travel
Looking to balance your love for surfing with a boost in your French skills? This 8-day surf & language immersion in Capbreton offers the perfect blend of active adventure & cultural enrichment.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, you’ll catch waves on the famous beaches of Capbreton-Hossegor while taking part in small-group French classes designed to make language learning fun & practical.
Hosted by Le Bon Mot Tours, this experience combines expert surf coaching, hands-on cultural excursions, & laid-back beach vibes. You’ll be based in a shared surf house, soaking up the savoir-vivre of France’s stunning Atlantic coast.
What’s Included
The program includes 20 hours of immersive French lessons (A2–B1 level) & 10 hours of guided surf instruction, all taught in small, supportive groups. You’ll enjoy seven nights of accommodation in a shared house, plus two group dinners to connect with fellow participants.
Surf sessions are tailored daily by experienced French-speaking instructors, with all gear—wetsuits & surfboards—provided during lessons. Outside the classroom, you’ll explore real-world French through visits to bakeries, restaurants, & markets.
Optional yoga is available for an added fee, offering morning Vinyasa & afternoon Hatha sessions that perfectly complement your surfing routine. Find Out More
Discover your ideal surf camp below—compare options across France and around the world!
Hossegor Surfboard Hire
Hossegor surfboard hire services are plentiful & well-equipped, offering a wide range of boards suited to the town’s powerful & varied waves. Surf Trip offers a wide range of surfboards for hire, catering to all skill levels and conditions.
Surf Adventure provides reliable board rental services, ensuring you have the right equipment for Hossegor’s dynamic waves.
Chipiron Surf School and Hossegor Surf Center also offer convenient surfboard rentals, giving you easy access to the gear you need for an epic day on the water.
No matter your style or experience level, Hossegor surfboard hire shops make it easy to find the right board. With top-quality gear just steps from the beach, you’ll be ready to paddle out & enjoy one of Europe’s most iconic surf destinations.
Hossegor Surf Report & Surf Cam
While you’re enjoying your time, staying updated on Hossegor surf conditions is key to making the most of your sessions. Websites like Surf-Forecast and Surfline provide detailed weather and Hossegor surf reports, including swell size, wind direction, and tide times, to help you plan your day.
For those wanting a real-time view of the waves, Surfline offers live surf cameras at many popular breaks. However, access to these cameras requires a paid subscription. Despite the cost, Surfline’s cameras can be a valuable tool for surfers who want to check conditions before heading out. With these resources, you’ll always be in the know about the best times to hit the water.
How To Get To Hossegor Surf
- Biarritz Airport (BIQ) To Hossegor
Distance: 30km (19mi)
Getting to Hossegor surf from Biarritz Airport (BIQ) is quick & straightforward. A taxi or rideshare takes about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can opt for the bus, which runs frequently & offers a budget-friendly option.
Public Transport | Cheapest Option
- Time: 2-2.5 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. $8-15 USD per person
Details:
Start by taking the Txik Txak bus from the airport to Bayonne. From Bayonne’s main station, switch to a bus run by RDTL or XL’R heading toward Hossegor. Connections are available throughout the day, though services are less frequent on weekends or holidays.
While this route requires patience and some planning, it’s a scenic and cost-effective way to reach Hossegor.
Shuttle Service
- Time: 50-70 mins.
- Cost: Approx. $35-$55 USD per person
Details:
Pre-booked shuttles are widely available and frequently used by surfers. Services may be direct or include a short stop in Capbreton.
Shuttles cater well to surf tourism and often include board transport, making this a convenient and cost-effective choice.
Accommodation In Hossegor
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range (EUR)* | Price Range (USD)* |
|---|---|---|---|
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Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
N/A |
N/A |
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Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€90 to €190 |
$100 to $200 |
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Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€250 to €500+ |
$270 to $550+ |
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*Rates are per night and subject to change. |
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Find Your Perfect Stay
When planning your stay at Hossegor, Tripaneer should be your first stop, offering a seamless booking experience for surf camps and unique local adventures that truly capture the spirit of the coast. Tripaneer’s curated options ensure you start your journey with the best blend of excitement and comfort.
For those interested in a wider array of accommodation, Booking.com presents a range of luxurious beachfront properties and cozy apartments just steps away from the sand, while Hostelworld caters to budget-conscious travellers with its selection of affordable hostels and social surf lodges.
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