Technical details of spot

Spot functioning

Navigation zone in the Passe Sud — regulated in summer. Enter the water at the end of low tide or during the first half of rising tide to benefit from opposing current. Avoid the peak rising tide when the current is strongest and the shorebreak most powerful. The spot is self-managed with informal rules respected by local riders. In summer, practice is regulated — check current rules with the APCK kite association.

On the water

Powerful tidal currents in the Passe Sud reaching 4-6 knots at peak flow — the strongest tidal currents on the southwest French coast. Shorebreak on the ocean side during rising tide. Sandy bottom. The navigation area mixes ocean swell and tidal flow — conditions are demanding and ever-changing. Body drag in these currents requires solid skills.

Required level

Advanced

Spot opening date

Open all year round

Open year-round, free access out of season. In summer (mid-June to early September) practice is regulated. Best conditions: spring and autumn when currents are manageable and beaches less crowded. Winter allows buggy kite and landboarding on the beach.

Parking

Parking near the beach, accessible from La Teste-de-Buch via the D218. Facilities limited on site — services in La Teste or Arcachon (~15km). Note: do not leave valuables in the car.

Hazards

Very strong tidal currents in the Passe Sud — this is a highly technical spot. Powerful shorebreak on rising tide. Shared beach with bathers, surfers and walkers. In summer, beach crowded with tourists. Never ride without an excellent knowledge of local maritime conditions. Do not ride alone. Check the tide table before every session — timing is critical.

Wind specificities

Northwest and west thermal winds, typical of the Arcachon area, build progressively in the morning and peak in the early afternoon (12 to 22 knots). The Bassin d'Arcachon creates a specific thermal cycle — the heating of the inland areas generates consistent sea breezes. South wind provides additional sessions but can be unstable. Wind interacts with tidal current — when wind and current oppose each other, conditions are more manageable.

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