Where can you kitesurf in the Landes?

Les Landes is a department in south-west France, popular for kitesurfing and other water sports. Whether you’re a fan of surfing (shortboard, longboard, paddle) or kitesurfing (twintip, strapless, foil), the Atlantic coast offers a wide variety of spots. From fast, hollow waves to large breakers and lakes for flat sessions, you’ll find spots to suit every taste and level. Discover 3 perfect spots for kitesurfing in the Landes.

Lake Hourtin

Lac d’Hourtin is a real paradise for kitesurfers in the Landes region. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, this spot offers ideal conditions for freestyle kitesurfing. Exposed to the prevailing winds and benefiting from thermals ranging from 2 to 5 Beaufort, it is considered one of the best spots in the Aquitaine and South-West regions to learn and progress in kitesurfing.

Lac d’Hourtin has a special kitesurfing area on its eastern shore. This zone, which extends over a large area of around 2 km by 800 m, offers plenty of space for safe riding. Westerly, northerly and southerly winds make for varied riding. Whether you want to learn to kitesurf or perfect your skills, Lac d’Hourtin in the Landes region of France offers a magnificent setting and optimal conditions for experiencing sensations on the water.

Lacanau

The south beach at Lacanau is a perfect spot for kitesurfing in the moors. It’s quite large, and the space for sailing is very pleasant. However, only the south beach is open during the day, and only in summer. So don’t hesitate to walk away and enjoy your activity where it’s less crowded. The best wind direction is north-westerly, which comes in side-on. Expect large wings from 10 m² to 12 m², but luckily, as there’s often a thermal effect, you’ll have to take out the smaller sizes from 7 m² to 9 m².

At high tide, the waves are beautiful, but beware of the shore break, which can be powerful and not always easy to get through strapless.

Seignosse

Seignosse’s main kitesurfing spot is located on the Estagnots beach. From June to September, a dedicated kitesurfing area is signposted during supervised swimming hours. The waves are great, and there are usually straights of no more than a metre, ideal for learning strapless. The wind direction is north to northwest. It generally rises around 4 to 5 pm and is fairly light (between 10 and 18 knots). So get out the big tarpaulins.