Saint-Valery-en-Caux

Saint-Valery-en-Caux is a protected bay on the Normandy coast of northern France, facing northeast into the English Channel. The spot features a natural harbor with marina infrastructure on the western side and rocky cliffs bounding the bay. The water area available for kitesurfing is constrained by breakwaters and moored vessels, making this a sheltered but limited riding zone. Best conditions occur with northwesterly winds (310-320°) that provide side-shore approach across the bay. The moderate swell of 0.93m average reflects the protected nature of the bay; larger swells form in winter when Atlantic storms approach. Wind reliability at 24% indicates this is not a consistent wind location. The spot suits intermediate riders familiar with marina navigation and tidal factors. Kiters must respect boat traffic, mooring fields, and the breakwater structures. The rough-chop water condition results from wind-wave interaction in the confined bay area. Water temperature averages 12°C, requiring appropriate thermal protection year-round.