Les Palles

Les Palles is a bay-break spot located on France's Atlantic coast, situated in a shallow bay with a north-facing aspect. The spot features a protected harbor basin with marina facilities and a designated parking area, providing convenient access but creating congestion during peak conditions. The beach break area offers moderate wave exposure with an average of 1.47m swells and 11.5-knot winds. Conditions are most manageable with northwest winds (315°), which provide ideal side-shore flow parallel to the beach. The spot is protected by a natural headland to the north and artificial breakwaters, reducing fetch but also limiting wave size. Low wind reliability (39.6%) and cool water temperatures (14.5°C) require appropriate gear. This spot suits intermediate riders seeking protected conditions with accessible facilities. Key considerations include boat traffic in the harbor basin, shallow water near shore requiring careful water entry, and the need for proper timing to avoid marina activity. The nearby rocky features and existing infrastructure mean site familiarization is essential before first visit.