Technical details of spot

Spot functioning

Designated kite zone to the right of the lifeguard post in summer (mid-June to early September). Entry to the water to the right of the MNS post. Outside the summer season, free access. The 700m walk from the parking selects for motivated riders — equipment trolleys recommended. Respect the surf and bathing zones at all times.

On the water

Atlantic beach break with waves of 0.3 to 1.5m. Sandy bottom. Shorebreak can be significant in swell conditions. The beach is more exposed to open ocean swell than the Bassin d'Arcachon, giving a proper Atlantic ocean riding experience. Rip currents can form — identify them before launching.

Required level

Intermediate

Spot opening date

Open all year round

Open year-round. Free access out of summer season. In summer (mid-June to early September) designated kite zone active. Best wind: May to October, northwest thermal in the afternoons.

Parking

Parking at Plage de la Salie Nord, accessible from La Teste-de-Buch via the D218. Note: 700m walk to the beach from the car park — bring a trolley for equipment. Services in La Teste-de-Buch or Arcachon.

Hazards

Significant shorebreak on the ocean side — can be powerful in swell. Shared beach with surfers and bathers. Tidal influence — beach narrows at high tide. 700m walk from parking to beach with equipment. Respect the lifeguard post zones and designated kite area. Do not stray towards the Passe Sud channel.

Wind specificities

Northwest thermal wind, typical of the Arcachon coast, builds progressively from late morning to early afternoon, typically 12 to 22 knots. The open ocean position gives cleaner and more consistent wind than spots inside the Bassin. South wind provides additional sessions. Wind is generally more consistent here than at the more sheltered spots inside the Bassin d'Arcachon.

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