Les Cavaliers is one of the Cote Basque's top beachbreaks, known for its quality waves. Located near the river Adour's mouth, it catches westerly swells and turns them into fast, hollow A-frames. The beach stretches for five kilometers towards the south, featuring multiple sandbars thanks to the marshalling breakwaters. This spot has a bit of history, sitting next to the old La Barre wave, which was one of the first in France to gain international fame before it was altered by a jetty.
The surf here can get serious, handling swell sizes from around 1 meter (3ft) to 3 meters (10ft). It’s best when the tide is low to medium-high, especially with a nice east or southeast wind. You can expect shoulder-high to double overhead waves, with the breaks offering both lefts and rights. The wave quality is decent, but be prepared for a bit of a workout, especially when it's pumping. This is a spot where intermediates can easily get caught out if the conditions are big, so keep that in mind.
Access to the spot is pretty straightforward. The paddling channel beside the jetty makes it easier to get out, but watch out for rip currents. Crowds can be an issue, particularly during peak times, as a skilled local crew usually dominates the lineup. If you’re looking to ride shortboards or fish, this is a great place for both. The best season for surfing is from October to February, but you can find rideable waves year-round.