Whether you’re an amateur or a beginner, learning to surf the waves of the Ile d’Oléron is a dream come true, thanks to the many surf schools on the island. For more experienced surfers in search of big waves, head north of the Ile d’Oléron, to the Pointe de Chassiron.
Tips for surfing on the Ile d’Oléron
First, choose your equipment: wetsuit and surfboard. Professional advice will help you choose the right board size and equipment. With your instructor, you’ll learn the language of waves and surfers: lip, shoulder, curl, white water peak, impact zone, tube and peak. The latter is the highest strategic point of the wave when it breaks. As for the other terms, you’ll learn them on your board with your instructor.
Then it’s a question of balance, direction and wiggle, all under the supervision of surfing professionals.
Below is a list of the best surf spots on the Ile d’Oléron.
- The beach at Saint-Trojan les Bains is close to our family campsite.
- Vert-Bois beach lies between Dolus-d’Oléron and Saint-Trojan les bains.
- Plage des Allassins, Grand-Village Plage’s long-wave spot, lies between dunes and beaches.
- Pointe des Boulassiers is located in La Brée les bains.
- Finally, the Pointe Chassiron at Saint-Denis d’Oléron, with its more consistent waves, is reserved for the most experienced surfers.
