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Lacanau is a popular surf spot located along the Atlantic coast in France, mainly serving the Bordeaux area. This place has been a hub for surfers since 1979 when it became an ASP contest venue. With around 14 km of beaches, it offers a range of surf experiences, especially at spots like Plage Centrale, La Nord, and La Sud. The area is known for consistent surf, but it can be crowded, particularly in the summer months when many people flock to the beach for the surf and sun.
Surfing at Lacanau works best with a medium-sized west to northwest swell, handling conditions from 0.6 meters (2 ft) up to 2.4 meters (8 ft). The waves break over sand, providing both left and right waves. The best tides are low, mid, and high, and the sweet spot is usually when the wind comes from the east. While on smaller days, it can be beginner-friendly, it can turn challenging with overhead waves, especially due to tricky rip currents. Some days, you might find fast peeling low tide runners or mid to high tide shories that create some fun options. In the autumn and winter, you can expect more consistent swells, making it prime time for those looking for better waves.
Access to the surf spots is pretty straightforward, and it’s a great spot for various board types, whether you're riding a shortboard, fish, funboard, or longboard. While the lineups can get busy, especially during summer, the crowd often thins out in the off-season. Just be mindful of the rips, as they can pose challenges even for intermediate surfers. Overall, Lacanau is one of those spots that has something for everyone, but you might want to plan your visit according to the swell and season to get the best out of it.