Overview
Capbreton is a barreling beach break with some of the most intense, hollow waves in the country. The Bunkers section is the heavy end of it, with steep drops into barrels breaking close to shore. Old blockhaus defences have eroded and tumbled around the line-up, helping shape consistent but shifting sandbanks.
Further south, around the large car park and camper area, the waves are less intense but still popular. A longer walk south can find quieter peaks.
When It Works
The main swell window is west to northwest, and the spot is usable from 1.2 m / 4 ft to 2.4 m / 8 ft. Autumn is the main season, especially September to November.
Waves break over sand and can run both left and right. Compared with La Gravière, it is smaller but more defined.
Wind and Tide
The cleanest wind is east-southeast. A workable wind window runs from east to south-southeast.
It works through the tides, with a rising tide generally better. Bunkers is best on low to mid tide. At high tide it can turn into a vicious semi-closeout, which is popular with bodyboarders.
Local Tips
This is a spot for intermediate to expert surfers, with shortboards, fish, bodyboards, and bodysurfing all in the mix.
It gets very busy when good, including strong surfers and chargers. The atmosphere is friendly, but the line-up can feel competitive, so be patient and respectful.
The waves are heavy and hollow: it can be the barrel of a lifetime, or a serious spin-cycle flogging. Water quality is generally good, but it can be polluted after rain.
Access
There is a large car park and Aire de Campingcars just behind the dunes. The area is well signposted from town.
