Mid-June brings a generous run of swell to the Atlantic. Between weather forecasts, heated contests, and cultural events, here’s a factual roundup of the waves not to miss for the week of June 15.
Swell & tide forecast: where and when to score from June 15 to 22
A pulse of ocean long-period arrives as early as Monday, combined with northeasterly winds that let the sandbanks breathe. An ideal window for morning surfing before the thermal wind sets in. The combination of the rising tide and a 1.8 m swell at 12 s should make several surf spots unmissable.
| Spot | Expected wave size | Period | Prevailing wind | Tide window |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| La Gravière, Hossegor | 1.8 – 2.2 m | 12 s | NE 10 km/h | Mid-tide ebb |
| Santocha, Capbreton | 1.5 – 1.9 m | 11 s | E 8 km/h | High tide |
| Côte des Basques, Biarritz | 1.2 – 1.6 m | 12 s | NE 12 km/h | Rising |
| Central, Lacanau | 1.4 – 1.7 m | 10 s | N 15 km/h | Low tide |
Quick gear tip
At La Nord, the swell peak calls for an intermediate gun or a beefy step-up. Fine-tuning details are covered in this article: choosing the right surfboard.
Competition results: the surf world is buzzing
Championship Tour – Punta Roca on fire
The Surf City El Salvador Pro wrapped up at the right-hand point break with the unquestioned dominance of Carissa Moore and Leonardo Fioravanti. The five-time champion takes a major win after her maternity break, while the Italian notches a historic first victory against rankings leader Italo Ferreira.
French fireworks on the sands of Landes
- Bidarteko SC wins the interclub shortboard title and a ticket to the 2027 World Championships.
- In longboard, Antoine Delpero, Alice Lemoigne, and the local youth dominate the podium at Parlementia.
- Santocha crowns Mohamed Anas Addar in open bodyboarding amid consistent wedges.
Spots to prioritize this week along the Atlantic coast
Capbreton: Santocha, a multi-craft playground
The break lines up perfectly over sand reshaped by the latest winter storms. The biggest sets will be more bodyboard- and kneeboard-friendly, recalling the national contest that was just held. For stand-up chargers, keep an eye on the growing summer: the sandbars shift quickly from session to session.
For a look back at XXL swells, check out the Capbreton XXL archive.
Lacanau: central sandbar, offshore option
The thermal wind stays light at daybreak. A beach less crowded than usual, offering a steady run of lefts dancing across the northern sandbar. Ideal for sharpening your turns before the first summer trials.
Gear & mobility: getting ready for the warm season
Must-visit local surf shops
Need tropical wax or a minimalist roof rack? The 2026 selection of retailers is listed on Hossegor’s best surf shops, with a neo-eco focus on bio-based resin.
Citroën Ami Surf: electric shuttle between the dunes and the parking lot
The customized micro-vehicle is winning over regulars at the surf spot at La Sud. Range: 100 km, built-in board rack, zero CO₂. More info: Ami Surf Hossegor.
Waves & culture calendar
Upcoming events to fit in between two tides:
- The Tadpoles : 200 kids ages 6 to 14 on the Côte des Basques, celebrating 60 years of the Jo Moraiz school.
- Vivi Rio Pro : Saquarema beach break starting Friday, with French surfers Mignot & Vaast waiting in the wings.
- Rip Curl GromSearch Hossegorlate June: European U16 qualifier, details on GromSearch.
- Film release In Waves on July 1: a mix of love and the history of surf, Quiksilver partnership.
What are the best hours for surfing this week?
From dawn until 10:30 a.m., then from 6 p.m. onward, when the thermal wind drops and the tide provides more wave face at La Gravière and Santocha.
Do you need a full wetsuit in June?
The water hovers around 19°C. A 3/2 mm is enough in the morning; a shorty or rash guard in the afternoon for those who do not mind the cool wind.
What type of board should you choose with 1.8 m at a 12 s period?
A performance shortboard 2 to 4 liters above your usual volume, or even a step-up to maintain drive and control in hollow sections.
Are local competitions open to the public?
Yes. Les Têtards, the GromSearch, and the national longboard Open welcome the public free of charge on the beach, with competitors’ areas marked off.
How can you follow the Vivi Rio Pro live?
The live stream is available on the WSL website and mobile app. The French heats will also be broadcast by several surf cafés in Hossegor.
