Les-Portes-en-Ré

Lizay is generally oriented northwest, with the open ocean directly to the west. With prevailing winds from W to NW, navigation is side-shore to side-on from the right, which is ideal for exploiting the waves while maintaining a good safety course towards the beach. With SW winds, the wind becomes more side-on, the water surface is more choppy but remains usable for wave kiting and freeride for experienced riders.

The beach is a large stretch of sand with plenty of space for rigging and launching, but access is via a parking area set back and then a path through the dunes, which requires good preparation of equipment before heading down. Launching is done directly in front of the path, on a sandy area, but it should be noted that near the point and further east, there are rocks and reef, especially visible at low tide. Navigation is therefore mainly in front of the sandy beach, keeping a reasonable distance from the rocky ends.

The water surface is typically wave as soon as there is swell from the west or northwest. At high tide, the waves break on the sand with powerful peaks, close to a beachbreak, but some sections break over reef on the Lizay side for good level surfing. At low tide, the rocks emerge more, making the area more technical and limiting close navigation to the shore. Wave kitesurfers generally stay offshore of the first bar to maintain depth and avoid rocky slabs.

The site is clearly a spot for experienced riders: the waves can be powerful in winter, with a marked shorebreak that complicates launching and returning to the shore. The wind can be irregular in certain orientations, especially if one gets too close to the dunes, hence the importance of staying well offshore. Body dragging and relaunching in the waves must be perfectly mastered.

For launching and landing, the large beach offers space, but it is important to stay away from rocky areas and potential bathers during the season. The spot is sometimes shared with surfers, especially on good swell days, so one must remain vigilant about priorities and avoid riding right at the main peak. In summary, Lizay is a beautiful playground for engaged wave kiting and freeride, but it requires anticipation regarding tide, swell, and reef configuration.