Famed for its reliable surf breaks, Hossegor is a seaside resort nestled amidst pine trees in southwestern France. It boasts a long stretch of golden sand dotted with surf shops, as well as a scenic lake ringed by beaches that serves as a recreational hub during the summer months. A diversity of architectural styles can be appreciated in Hossegor, including several Neo-Basque villas dating back to the 1930s.
Things to do in Hossegor
Rent a board at one of the surf shops to take on Hossegor’s legendary waves, which range from beginner-friendly at La Sud to the powerful tubes near La Gravière that cater to experienced surfers. To the north of Hossegor are several beaches that offer excellent board-riding conditions, including Les Estagnots, Les Bourdaines and Le Penon.
If the winds are blowing onshore, you can use the opportunity to learn to kite surf along the stretch of coast that lies between Les Estagnots and Les Bourdaines. There are a couple of operators in Hossegor that offer lessons for beginners or one-on-one tuition for kite surfers wanting to improve their skills.
Elongated north to south just inland from the coast is Hossegor Lake, a picturesque body of water that connects to the Bay of Biscay via the Canal d’Hossegor. It’s a particularly popular setting for stand-up paddleboarding, with lessons and rental boards both available. Cafes and oyster bars dot the shore where you can dine throughout the day.
Getting around Hossegor
Hossegor is 30 minutes’ drive from Biarritz Pays Basque Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe, while Bordeaux is around two hours away. Buses connect Hossegor to cities throughout Southern France and the town itself. Bicycles are a convenient way of getting around Hossegor.