Lafitenia

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Lafitenia surfspot characteristics

Swell Window
W | N
Optimal Swell Direction
NW
Swell Size
3ft - 10ft
Breaks over
unevenReef | sand
Wave type
point
Wave direction
right
Optimal Wind Direction
SE
Best Tides at
low | mid

More about Lafitenia surfspot

A beautiful righthand pointbreak, complete with steps in the steep take-off, that leads into a long wall and occasionally hollow inside section. After the excitement of the first steep section, the wall fattens up and allows repetitive cutbacks into the hook before the final race to the shorebreak close-out. Frequented by multi ability surfers on various craft, it's a fairly friendly wave, unlike the psycho outside left that Slater has towed in seasons past. High tide will kill it when smaller, unlike any E wind, since the headland provides protection even from NE. More W in the swell should get the wall lining up across the bay. Campground on the hill above the wave.

General: The sheltered bay of Lafitenia on southwest France's Basque coastline is home to a classic right-hand point that can reel for up to 250 yards. In big northwest swells the lineup shifts around over the sand-covered rock reef creating an unpredictable, and heavy takeoff. After making the drop, it's all about generating speed and working your line with classic carving turns as the wall races through the mid-section. The inside then hollows out to create a nice little cover-up opportunity. This spot is always busy, especially during the summer months, but the payoff is definitely worth the wait. There is a huge point on the opposite side of the bay called Peyo's Left. Tides: low to medium high Size: shoulder high to double overhead Wind: S/SE Swell: NW, W Bottom: Rock and sand Paddling: Average most days but can be a long paddle back up the point when it is pumping. Spot Rating: Lined up right point with a few hollow sections.

Intermediate to advanced

Simple.

October-February but rideable year-round.

Crowd Factor: Large local crew, heaving in the small summer swells. Local Vibe: Largely tolerant.

Follow Acotz and park just above Lafitenia Bay. Quiksilver European headquarters are just in front, no wonder it’s crowded any time of the day.

Moderate

Long paddle.

Check surf reports near Lafitenia