Overview
Sainte-Barbe is a long right that wraps around the jetty on the north side of the bay. It starts with a radical, sucky take-off, then runs through wall and shoulder sections as it refracts around the reef toward Inside Sainte-Barbe.
Closer to shore, Les Flots Bleus is a smaller wave suited to kids and beginners. The main wave breaks over uneven reef and sand.
When It Works
The spot is somewhat inconsistent and needs the right swell to properly light up. It works from 0.9 m / 3 ft to 4.6 m / 15 ft, with swell from northwest to north and an optimal swell direction of northwest. More north in the swell helps it penetrate better.
Wind and Tide
The offshore wind direction is east. A workable wind window runs from northeast to south.
Low, mid, and high tide can all be surfed, but a rising tide is better. Around Inside Sainte-Barbe, the tide has a big effect on the ride, and some fat, bouncy lefts can appear before fading out.
Local Tips
The paddle-out to the jetty is long, and currents can slow progress. Water quality may be suspect after rain, especially around the stormy swells that help the break work.
When the other reefs are maxing, Sainte-Barbe gets very busy. Experts tend to surf the jetty, intermediates Inside Sainte-Barbe, and beginners Les Flots Bleus.
Access
There are restrooms, showers, and a surf shop. Parking options include a car park with free parking, metered parking, and roadside parking.
