Overview
Contis-Plage is a laid-back beach resort break in Saint Julien en Born, working over sand with both lefts and rights. The sandbanks move around, and the lighthouse gives a handy bird's eye view of where they're firing, with the best banks usually to the north near the old bunker and the rivermouth.
When It Works
The beach draws swell from west to north (W-N), and northwest (NW) swell is the best match. It works from 0.3 m / 1 ft to 2.4 m / 8 ft, and it picks up surf reliably, so there's almost always something to ride when the swell sits in that window.
Wind and Tide
Look for an east (E) offshore wind to clean it up. The bank works through most of the tide, from low to high, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
It suits intermediate surfers, with plenty of peaks to spread out along. The lineup stays fairly quiet, though it fills out through the July to September summer season. Keep in mind the river can push murky water down from the marshes inland, drifting south on the current.
Access
There's a car park with free parking plus roadside spots, along with full beach-town facilities: restrooms, showers, camping, a lifeguard, a surf school and a surf shop.
