Surfing in Hossegor: Spots & Surf Lessons
Hossegor is Europe's surf capital, famous for La Graviere and WSL competitions. But its powerful waves aren't suited to every level. Discover the Hossegor surf spots and the ideal beginner-friendly alternative just 5 minutes away: Santocha Beach in Capbreton.
4
main spots
WSL
pro competitions
2-4 m
avg autumn swell
5 min
from Capbreton
The spots
Hossegor surf spots
Hossegor is home to some of the best surf spots in the world. Here are the main breaks, from most challenging to most accessible.
La Graviere
ExpertEurope's most famous shore break. Extremely powerful hollow waves breaking directly onto sand. WSL (World Surf League) competition venue. Reserved for very experienced surfers.
La Nord
Advanced to expertPowerful, fast waves, often bigger than La Graviere. One of the most consistent spots in Hossegor. Strong currents, shifting sandbars.
La Sud
IntermediateMore accessible than its neighbours, La Sud offers less intense waves. Good spot for progressing when conditions are moderate. Can get technical on bigger swells.
Les Culs Nus
All levelsThe most accessible spot in Hossegor. Beach break with varied waves depending on the sandbars. A decent option for intermediates wanting to surf in Hossegor.
See also: the 5 Capbreton surf spots (Santocha, La Piste, Prevent, Notre-Dame, La Centrale)
Alternative
Learning to surf near Hossegor: why choose Capbreton?
Hossegor
- ✗ Powerful waves, often dangerous for beginners
- ✗ Very crowded spots in season
- ✗ Strong currents, violent shore break (La Graviere)
- ● La Sud is accessible for intermediates on small days
Capbreton — Le Santocha
- Gentle, forgiving waves ideal for beginners and families
- Less crowded, more space to learn
- Sandy bottom, safe for wipeouts
- Community surf club since 1975, family atmosphere
- Just 5 minutes from Hossegor
Looking for a surf school near Hossegor? Santocha is the ideal alternative. Located in Capbreton, right on the Hossegor border, our club offers surf lessons in Capbreton on a spot perfectly suited to learning.
Our state-certified instructors know the Capbreton and Hossegor spots inside out. They'll guide you to the break best suited to your level. Beginners start at Santocha Beach; more advanced surfers can then explore La Piste (Hossegor border) or Notre-Dame.
We welcome children from age 8, adult beginners, families and groups (hen & stag parties, team building). Full equipment provided, 8 students max per instructor.
Santocha
Your surf school 5 min from Hossegor
Since 1975
The oldest surf club in Capbreton. 50 years of experience.
Certified coaches
All state-certified. They know Capbreton AND Hossegor.
8 students max
Small groups for personalised coaching.
5/5 on Google
Perfect rating. 95% standing on their first lesson.
Frequently asked questions — Surfing in Hossegor
Can beginners learn to surf in Hossegor?
Hossegor is famous for powerful waves (La Graviere, La Nord) best suited for experienced surfers. For beginners, Santocha Beach in Capbreton is far more suitable: gentle waves, sandy bottom, smaller crowds. It's just a 5-minute drive from Hossegor.
What is the difference between Hossegor and Capbreton for surfing?
Hossegor offers powerful, hollow waves ideal for advanced surfers. Spots like La Graviere and La Nord are among the most intense in Europe. Capbreton, just to the south, has gentler, more consistent waves at Santocha Beach — perfect for learning and progressing safely.
Where is the nearest surf school to Hossegor?
Santocha Surf Club in Capbreton is 5 minutes from Hossegor. Founded in 1975, it's the only community surf club in the area. Our state-certified instructors offer surf and bodyboard lessons from just EUR36 per session (5-pack).
What are the best surf spots in Hossegor?
The legendary Hossegor spots: La Graviere (expert shore break, WSL competitions), La Nord (powerful waves, advanced), La Sud (more accessible, intermediate), Les Culs Nus (all levels beach break). Santocha Beach in Capbreton completes the triangle as the ideal beginner spot.
Is Hossegor dangerous for beginner surfers?
Some Hossegor spots (La Graviere, La Nord) are genuinely dangerous for beginners due to powerful waves, strong currents and violent shore break. La Sud is more forgiving but still challenging. For a safe introduction to surfing, Santocha Beach in Capbreton is the ideal alternative, just 5 minutes away.
How much do surf lessons cost near Hossegor?
Surf school prices range from EUR35 to EUR65 per session depending on the school. At Santocha in Capbreton (5 min from Hossegor), a group lesson costs EUR50 per session or EUR36 with a 5-pack (EUR180). Full equipment included, 8 students maximum per instructor.
When is the best time to surf in Hossegor?
Summer (June-Sept) offers mellower conditions accessible to intermediates. Autumn (Sept-Nov) is the best season for experienced surfers with powerful swells. Winter is for experts only. For beginners, summer at Capbreton (5 min away) provides the most suitable conditions.
Can I hire surfboards in Hossegor?
Yes, several shops offer rentals in Hossegor. Santocha in Capbreton also rents surfboards (from EUR5/hr), bodyboards and wetsuits right on the beach. Handy if you want to surf different spots in the area.
Book your surf lesson near Hossegor
5 minutes from Hossegor, at Santocha Beach in Capbreton. Group and private lessons, equipment included.
Hossegor waves, Capbreton lessons
Santocha welcomes you 5 minutes from Hossegor for lessons suited to all levels.