Les Sables-d’Olonne

Pierres Noires beach is exposed directly to the west, facing the Atlantic. The dominant winds from W to NW generally arrive in a side-on manner from the right, which is ideal for kitesurfing in terms of safety and returning to the shore. A SW wind becomes rather side-shore to slightly side-off, and a N wind is more irregular due to the dune and forest behind the beach.

The water surface is typical of the Vendée coast, with a shorebreak that varies depending on the swell. At high tide, waves sometimes break close to the shore, and launching can be physical, especially on days of strong swell. At mid-tide and low tide, there is more bottom and space, with a more readable wave alignment and easier waterstart zones between sets.

The area is known as a surf spot, which means regular waves on a sandy bottom, but the beach is named Pierres Noires because there are rocks in certain sections, especially when approaching Sauveterre to the north. It is important to scout for potential rocky banks and areas to avoid at low tide before navigating at higher tide. The further south you go towards Aubraie, the wilder and clearer the beach becomes.

Takeoff is done directly on the sand, with a wide beach area, but the usable width varies with the tide. At high tide with high coefficients, the sand strip reduces, and takeoff becomes more technical, especially in strong winds. It is preferable to prepare and launch the kite at mid-tide or falling tide to maintain space and limit risks. The main navigation area is located in front of the parking lot, staying well clear of surfers and potential swimmers.

In season, the beach may be shared among several uses (surfing, walking, sunbathing). Even though the place remains less frequented than urban beaches, it is important to maintain a good safety margin during maneuvers near the shore. Swimming is sometimes indicated as prohibited or unsupervised, which does not directly concern kiting, but reminds that the area is exposed and requires a good level of skill, especially in waves and shorebreak.

The spot becomes more technical in strong winds (>25 knots) with crossed seas and chaotic waves. In these conditions, Pierres Noires beach is more suited for intermediate to advanced riders already comfortable in waves. Beginners would benefit from training first at more sheltered or flat water spots before coming here.