More than just a sport, surfing is a veritable institution in Lacanau. For 60 years, from Lacanau Pro to family surfing lessons, Lacanau Océan has been one of the leading destinations for ocean and swell lovers. An ideal playground where water is omnipresent, you won’t want to miss out. Learning techniques, history, life at the rhythm of the tides, surfshop tours, follow the guide and catch the wave in Canaul!
The history of surfing in Lacanau
A rich history
From pioneers to international competitions
Surfing in Lacanau began in the 1960s with pioneers such as Paul Feletou, Francis Maugard and Jacques Hèle, who imported the sport after discovering it in Biarritz. In 1968, the creation of the Lacanau Surf Club marked a turning point, positioning the town as a pillar of surfing in the Gironde. Since then , Lacanau has hosted prestigious competitions, attracting surfers from all over the world and contributing to its international reputation.
Lacanau’s beaches offer a wide variety of spots suitable for beginners and experienced surfers alike. The variety of beach breaks means that everyone can find waves to suit their level and desires. The favourable weather conditions and unspoilt natural setting make it a great place to surf all year round.
With around twenty surf schools, Lacanau is the ideal place to learn or improve your skills. Facilities like the Lacanau Surf Club, founded in 1968, offer lessons for all ages and levels, supervised by experienced instructors. These schools offer a variety of formulas, from beginners to advanced, in group or private lessons, guaranteeing progress tailored to each individual.
In Lacanau, surfing is much more than a sport: it’s a way of life. The town vibrates to the rhythm of the tides and the competitions, with events such as the Lacanau Pro bringing together thousands of enthusiasts every year. The surf shops, cafés and lively beaches are testimony to the town’s pervasive surf culture, providing a unique atmosphere for visitors.
Are you an expert surfer? Then you know the saying: “A surfer who knows how to surf must know how to choose his board”.
“Short” to go fast and split the waves,
“Long” to walk on the water in total serenity,
“Malibu’ if you’re not so sure, there’s a board for every style.
Mathieu
The Lacanau Pro
The surfing event not to be missed!
To find out more
The famous Lacanau Pro, France’s first professional surfing competition, was born in 1979. Even today, all the surfing professionals gather here to challenge each other on this third stage of the European Qualifying Tour (QS). Some of the biggest names in surfing have competed here, including Tom Curren, Martin Potter, Damien Hardman, Kelly Slater and Gabriel Medina.
Mathieu
