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Houlgate is a renowned kitesurf spot on Normandy's Côte Fleurie, 2h15 from Paris, between Cabourg and Deauville. "The pearl of the Côte Fleurie" is famous for its natural pools (cuvettes) formed at low tide — a unique feature that creates protected, calm water zones ideal for progression and flat water tricks.
The beach is wide and sandy with good space even in busy periods. Works mainly from W to NE. The cliff of the Vaches Noires to the east somewhat disrupts easterly winds. Off-season (October to May): no restrictions, full beach available. The Kite Paradise school has been on site since 2008 and offers a unique service: the only sea water-ski school in Normandy.
Kite Paradise — kitesurf, wingfoil, waterski school on site since 2008. Max 4 students, annual equipment (F-ONE, Slingshot, Flysurfer). Boat for offshore sessions by land wind. Affiliated AFKite n°08915. 78 Rue des Bains, Houlgate. kiteparadise.fr
Spot labeled FFVL.
Off-season (October 1 – May 31): no restrictions anywhere on the beach. In summer: mandatory kite zone for preparation and all kite activity; mandatory exit and entry via the 300 m channel. At low tide by sea wind: flat water, ideal for beginners and schools. At high tide by offshore wind: the school goes out by boat for open-water lessons.
Kite Paradise school: 78 Rue des Bains, Houlgate. Lessons daily, group max 4, complete equipment provided. kiteparadise.fr
Open all year round
Beginner
Works mainly from W to NE. NW: the standard normand wind, side-onshore port tack, always creates a small swell. NE: less frequent but reliable when it comes, often stronger than forecast — side-onshore starboard. E/NE: be wary of the Falaise des Vaches Noires cliff which disrupts and channels the wind. Pure SE/S/SW: no safe practice on the beach — school goes out by boat. At low tide by sea wind, the natural pools (cuvettes) offer unique flat water zones, particularly valued for learning and technical freestyle.
At high tide with large coefficients, launching becomes difficult and dangerous — space on the beach is minimal, wave shore break can be significant. Winter/autumn: the Falaise des Vaches Noires cliff to the east disrupts and accelerates NE wind — requires technical experience in this configuration. In peak season, the spot can be busy — walk to find a free zone.
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