Bretignolles-sur-Mer

Dunes beach is oriented facing the Atlantic, with an open water surface exposed to the swell. Winds from the W to NW sector generally arrive side-on shore right-hand side, providing safe conditions with a natural return to the beach. Winds from SW are more onshore and make the water surface more technical for going upwind, while winds from N to NE become more side-off and should be reserved for experienced riders.

The main kitesurfing area is located in the Dunes 2 sector, to the south, with a marked channel dedicated to kiting to the left of the lifeguard station, towards Gachère. Dunes 1 is mainly reserved for surfing, with a specific channel for surfers, so it is important to respect the distribution of uses and signage during the season. Launching takes place from the large sandy beach, with ample space to set up and launch kites at a safe distance from swimmers.

At mid to high tide, the shorebreak can be pronounced, especially with strong west or northwest swell, complicating the passage of the bar for intermediate levels. At mid-falling tide, one often finds a more organized water surface with well-formed waves on the sandbanks, ideal for kiting in the waves. At low tide, the beach reveals itself widely, with a long shorebreak but also shallower water areas after the first bar, which can help with waterstarts, while remaining cautious of the wave power.

The water surface is generally chop + waves, never really flat, even in small swell. When the wind is established and the swell is rising, there are beautiful lines of waves breaking over several peaks, with pleasant frontside surfing in NW side-on wind. In summer, the waves are often smaller and the water surface rather choppy, which remains suitable for freeride and jumping.

The navigation areas concentrate in front of Dunes 2 beach, staying clear of the channel and monitored swimming areas during high season. It is important to keep a good distance from the shore to navigate, as the beach is very crowded in summer. Outside the summer season, the spot becomes quieter, but the wind and swell conditions are stronger and require a good level of autonomy.

Locally, the spot works particularly well with autumn and winter depressions when the winds from the west to northwest strengthen. The presence of a kite school on site facilitates learning and advice on local specifics, especially regarding launch areas, channel operation, and days when the swell becomes really solid.