Discovering the best surf spots along the Channel and the North Sea

Forget for a moment the mythical waves of the Atlantic! The coastline of the English Channel and the North Sea holds many surprises for those who dare and dream of catching waves where they are least expected. Between wild beaches, majestic cliffs, and a salty atmosphere, embark on a tour of the most invigorating, sometimes secret, surf spots in northern France.

When dreaming of surfing in France, one generally thinks of the roar of the Atlantic Ocean, endless dunes, and the legendary competitions of the Southwest. However, there is another card to play: that of the English Channel and the North Sea! These often lesser-known coasts hide surf spots where adventure, freshness, and originality await, whether you’re a beginner or already a wax aficionado. Follow the guide, board under your arm and cap on your head, to discover the best places to tame the wave in northern France!

The Côtes d’Armor: The Breton spirit in full wave

Welcome to Côtes d’Armor, where Brittany serves you a cocktail of salty waves and dramatic landscapes on a silver platter. Whether you find yourself at Perros-Guirec, Trévou-Tréguignec, or on the beaches of Erquy and Cap Fréhel, there’s plenty of fun to be had all year round, especially between autumn and winter when the swells put on their best show. Here, every beach seems designed for surfing, with options for all levels and even a few schools ready to turn novices into kings of the waves.

The Cotentin: The little paradise of Norman surfing

Head towards Cotentin, the undisputed star of surfing on the western face of the English Channel. From Carteret to Vauville, several well-established spots follow in succession: Siouville, Sciotot, Le Rozel… For wind enthusiasts, windsurfing and kiting are also part of the fun. The atmosphere is relaxed, the landscape of heath, sea, and sky is pristine, and even beginners find welcoming sandbanks. The local surf schools quickly immerse you in the typical northern surfer vibe—generous and friendly!

A little further north, towards Cherbourg, the beaches of Mondrée and Querqueville await the intrepid. To the south, the waves of Saint Nicolas-Plages and Saint-Pair-sur-Mer attract lovers of barrels and thrilling rides.

Étretat: Between cliffs and intense sensations

While Étratat captivates with its cliffs framing the English Channel, it also offers sometimes epic conditions for surfers in search of challenges. Here, it’s better to have a few sessions under your belt to face the winter waves: they offer the best, but also the most… refreshing water temperature! Étretat has that mythical quality where surfing becomes a real spectacle, amidst spray and white stone sculpted by the elements.

Pourville-sur-Mer: The spot for Parisians in search of waves

At the gates of Dieppe, Pourville-sur-Mer has built a discreet reputation, not only for its long beach but also for its easy accessibility from the capital. Nestled between cliffs and small chalets, the resort mainly attracts those who want to try surfing without embarking on a journey of several hours. The water is suitable for learning and progression, under the watchful eye of the locals who will turn you into a true “northern surfer”!

Nord-Pas-de-Calais: Heading towards unexpected spots

On the coastal strip shared between the English Channel and the North Sea, Nord-Pas-de-Calais stands out as a welcoming land for those who love to surf… with a bit of daring! While conditions often vary, between swells and capricious winds, some spots shine: Cap Gris-Nez (the most famous spot), Berck-sur-Mer, Wissant, or Wimereux for lively sessions. Beginners may prefer Le Touquet and Équihen-Plage, where learning goes hand in hand with ease and stunning panoramas.

For true surf enthusiasts who wish to escape even further, consider exploring international horizons! Between the colorful waves of Costa Rica and the unique ambiance of Moroccan fishing villages, there are other gems to complete your collection of salty souvenirs (here and there). Not to mention the colorful coast of Costa Rica that awaits all travelers in search of the perfect spot!