Uncover the secret surf haven of Moliets, France - with insider knowledge on the best surf spots, seasonal wave patterns, local etiquette, and top tips for beginners.
f you’re into surfing, you’ve probably heard all about the hotspots over at Hossegor and Biarritz – but while everyone’s fighting for waves there, Moliets is sitting pretty just up the coast with the same sweet swell window and half the crowd.
This little corner of France’s Landes region is one long stretch of perfect beach breaks, backed by pine forests and zero pretense. The waves here work pretty much year-round; the locals are chill, and you can still find empty peaks through the summer!
Consider this your local friend’s guide to scoring waves in one of France’s best-kept surf secrets.
Where to Surf: Breaking Down Moliets' Best Spots
First up – let’s get oriented. Lucky for you, Moliets is an easy surf spot for all.
Plage de Moliets
This is the main beach in town, and it’s usually buzzing with activity. It’s a wide, sandy area with plenty of space to spread out, and the waves are generally friendly. Expect a classic beach break with both lefts and rights, perfect for learning to surf or cruising on a longboard.
● Google maps: Here
● Perfect for: Everyone from first timers to seasoned surfers looking for a fun, cruisy session.
● Best conditions: 2-6ft swell, light offshore winds (morning is usually your friend).
● Works best: 2 hours either side of mid-tide.
● Crowd factor: Summer season is July and August but always many quiet surf spots to find
Plage des Chênes Lièges
If you’re looking for something a bit more challenging, head south to Plage des Chênes Lièges. This beach is a bit wilder and more secluded, with beautiful dunes backing the shoreline.
● Google Maps: Here
● Perfect for: Intermediate to advanced surfers who want a bit more punch.
● Best conditions: Solid swell, low to mid tide.
● Crowd factor: Summer season is July and August but always many quiet surf spots to find
Secret SPots
Of course, every surf town has its secret spots, and Moliets is no exception! If you’re feeling adventurous and want to escape the crowds, do some exploring and see what you can find. Just remember to respect the locals and the environment and leave nothing but footprints behind. 🙂
Seasonal Guide & Local Conditions
Summer (June-September)
The high season brings reliable 3-5ft waves and water temperatures of 20-24°C, making it ideal for beginners and intermediates. Morning offshore winds mean clean waves until around 11am, after which the sea breeze typically picks up.
Conditions:
● Swell: Consistent but smaller swells, typically 3-5ft at exposed breaks
● Wind: Offshore until mid-morning, switching to moderate SW sea breeze
● Water: 20-24°C (shortie wetsuit or long-sleeve spring suit)
● Crowds: Peak season, especially August
● Best for: All levels
Autumn (September-November)
Autumn delivers Moliets’ most consistent quality waves. Groundswells become more powerful and regular, while water temperatures remain comfortable enough for 3/2mm wetsuits until late November. The real sweet spot is late September through October, when you’ll find summer-warm water with autumn power.
Conditions:
● Swell: Regular groundswells, 4-8ft with longer periods
● Wind: Stable offshore patterns, especially morning and evening
● Water: 16-20°C (3/2mm wetsuit recommended)
● Crowds: Minimal except during peak swell events
● Best for: All levels
Local insights:
● Low tide reveals deep channels perfect for paddle-outs
● North swells create perfect A-frame peaks at La Lette Blanche
● Watch for three-day weather windows after Atlantic storms
Winter (December-February)
Winter separates the dedicated from the casual. Powerful North Atlantic swells send consistent 6-10ft waves, with occasional bigger days. Water temperatures demand 4/3mm wetsuits with boots and gloves, but reward committed surfers with the year’s best waves.
Conditions:
● Swell: Powerful 6-10 ft+ groundswells with 12-16 second periods
● Wind: Predominantly offshore, storm fronts create epic conditions
● Water: 12-15°C (4/3mm wetsuit minimum with accessories)
● Crowds: Almost empty except during perfect conditions
● Best for: Experienced surfers comfortable in powerful wave
Spring (March-May)
Spring offers a perfect blend of conditions. Winter swells maintain power while winds become more favourable, and temperatures rise. The season’s varying conditions create diverse sandbanks, setting up perfect peaks for summer.
Conditions:
● Swell: Mix of winter power (4-8ft) and cleaner conditions
● Wind: Variable but generally offshore until mid-morning
● Water: 15-19°C (3/2mm transitioning to spring suit)
● Crowds: Light to moderate, building toward summer
● Best for: All skill levels
If you’re planning to surf Moliets, you’re in for a treat. This spot has some of the most welcoming surf communities in France, but remind:
The Basics: Wave Priority & Sharing
It’s a well-known surf rule that the surfer closest to the peak gets the wave. But here’s how it plays out Moliets style:
When you’re positioning yourself, try to sit just inside where the wave breaks, angling toward the beach.
If you accidentally drop in on someone (hey, it happens!), just kick out, apologise, and offer them the next wav
Being a Good Visitor
The surf community here takes care of their spot. Use the marked paths through the dunes and try to pick up at least one piece of trash when you leave. If you’re around during post-storm cleanups, joining in is a great way to connect with the community.
What makes Moliets so special is how welcoming it is, so make sure you contribute to the vibe!
Want To Learn to Surf in Moliets?
There’s a reason Moliets still feels like a hidden treasure – we’ve got the same amazing waves, twice the peaks to surf, and zero attitude in the lineup. The waves roll in year-round, and whether it’s your first time standing up or you’re hunting barrels, every session here feels special.
If you’re keen to explore the surf with some local knowledge in your corner, come say hi to us at Soonline – Surf & Skate School! We spend every day out here sharing what we love about this spot, and nothing beats watching someone catch their first proper wave on these beaches. Our certified instructors know every sandbank and current, and we’ll sort out all the gear you need.
Book a session through our website or click here to contact us on Whatsapp. Lessons start at €39, and we run everything from single sessions to full-week courses.
See you out there! 🏄♂️
