The surf spots of Landes are getting ready to come alive: a unique concept called Grand Bain Challenge XXL breaks the mold on June 28 and 29, transforming Capbreton into a hub for inclusive surf & lifestyle. Designed for bigger builds but open to everyone, the event is part of the Capbreton Surf Experience and rounds out an already packed calendar, from the Roxy Surf Festival to the upcoming Quiksilver Pro Capbreton.
Capbreton Surf Experience: a unique Grand Bain Challenge XXL
Launched by the Landes Surf Committee and supported by the Santocha Surf Club, the Grand Bain Challenge XXL combines healthy surfing with a friendly atmosphere. Santocha Beach will host more than 120 registered participants, divided into “Ocean XXL” categories. The aim: to show that surfing remains accessible, even when the scales are pushing serious numbers.
- Three men’s divisions: L (+85 kg), XL (+92.5 kg), XXL (+100 kg)
- A women’s division: >70 kg
- Free sessions for kids, a chance to share the wax with the family
- Free meal at Le Grand Bain restaurant for each competitor
- “Surf Spirit” sunset barbecue to wrap up the festivities
| Category | Weight limit | Recommended board type | Heat format |
|---|---|---|---|
| L | > 85 kg | Large 6’8” fish | 4 surfers / 20 min |
| XL | > 92.5 kg | 7’2” mini-malibu | 4 surfers / 25 min |
| XXL | > 100 kg | Retro Gun 7’6” | Head-to-head / 30 min |
| Women | > 70 kg | Hybrid 6’4” | 4 surfers / 20 min |
An XXL Ocean format designed with Wave Riders Capbreton
To streamline logistics, the AquaMotion Capbreton app will provide real-time access to heats and conditions. Volunteers from Wave Riders Capbreton have already tested the format during an internal clinic described in this report on the new generation of surfers from Landes. The verdict: the “fun first” atmosphere, combined with a safety briefing led by a lifeguard instructor from Capbreton, has won everyone over.
Surf Spirit Synergy: restaurateurs, Santocha Surf Club and Blue Coast Events
Valentin Houssier, already at the helm of several establishments in Hossegor, is relaunching the concept of his restaurant Le Grand Bain by betting on surfing. “Everyone wins,” sums up technician Xavier Duvignau. This philosophy aligns with that of Blue Coast Events which handles the onshore entertainment: old-school blind tests, poncho testing in partnership with the All-In brand and the “Évasion Atlantique” paddling contest.
- Meals on Le Grand Bain’s panoramic terrace
- Acoustic DJ set, California vibe
- Surf-health booths: nutrition, injury prevention
- Artisanal shaping corner hosted by Billabong Challenge
- “40 Years of Santocha” photo exhibition
| Partner | Role | Added value |
|---|---|---|
| Le Grand Bain | Catering | Meals provided for riders |
| Santocha Surf Club | Competition management | Safety equipment, judges |
| Blue Coast Events | Entertainment | DJ, quizzes, workshops |
| AquaMotion Capbreton | Live updates | Scores & tides |
Billabong Challenge and Évasion Atlantique, atmosphere boosters
The organizers are banking on a relaxed atmosphere, true to Landes culture. Towed foil demonstrations, already seen during adaptive surfing sessions, will take place before nightfall. A raffle will offer the chance to win a trip Évasion Atlantique on Spain’s northern coast.
2025 surf calendar: from the Roxy Surf Festival to the Quiksilver Pro Capbreton
The Grand Bain Challenge XXL kicks off the high season, but the action does not stop there. Capbreton, Hossegor and Seignosse will also host the French Surfing Championships at the end of October, not to mention the return of the Roxy Surf Festival in July and the highly anticipated Quiksilver Pro Capbreton in September. Competitors can already warm up thanks to the pre-summer Landes Championships.
- July 3–5: Roxy & Quiksilver Junior Pro
- June 28–29: Grand Bain Challenge XXL
- August: Billabong Challenge Night Surf
- September: Quiksilver Pro Capbreton – QS 5000
- Oct. 24–Nov. 2: France 2025 – Hossegor, Seignosse, Capbreton
| Date | Event | Spot | WSL Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| June 28–29 | Grand Bain Challenge XXL | Santocha | Non-ranking |
| July 3–5 | Roxy & Quiksilver Junior Pro | Santocha | 1,000 |
| August | Billabong Challenge | Les Estagnots | Exhibition |
| Sept. | Quiksilver Pro Capbreton | La Piste | 5,000 |
| Oct. 24–Nov. 2 | French Championships | Three spots | National |
A common thread: performance and passing on knowledge
Veterans are actively preparing the next generation. Proof of this: the “Next Gen” program unveiled in this series of video clips allows up-and-coming surfers to combine technical coaching with strength-training sessions led by Tya Zebrowski. Capbreton thus confirms its role as a European hub, both for pros and enthusiasts.
How do I register for the Grand Bain Challenge XXL?
FFS license holders can register online through the Landes Surf Committee portal. Non-license holders must bring a medical certificate and purchase an event license on site.
Which board should I choose for the XXL category?
Most riders opt for a mini-malibu or retro gun offering volume and stability. A moderate rocker and wide tail make late take-offs easier on Santocha’s powerful waves.
Is the closing barbecue open to the public?
Yes, with a day pass available at the Santocha Surf Club reception desk. Competitors have free access, with meals included in their registration.
Can women compete in the men’s open division?
Nothing prohibits it. Female surfers weighing over 70 kg already have their own division, but they can request to compete in both, provided they comply with the safety regulations.
Where can I find the full calendar of 2025 surfing events?
An interactive calendar is updated on the Blue Coast Events platform and shared by the FFS website.
