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Surf spot

3.9 — based on 17 community signals
4.2 12 species 27 contributors

Consistent waves year-round near a historic chapel in Var. A reliable French surf break with local character.

⭐ Best for beginners.

updated 4 months ago
Difficulty
Beginner
Shore entryFamily-friendly

At a glance

Activity
surf
Difficulty
beginner
Best months
Year-round
Marine life
Common octopus

Top operators here

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Map

This spot Operators Airport Nearby spots
Surf spot location map © Google · Map data © Google, contributors
Open in Google Maps

Conditions today

Conditions

Open-Meteo
Wind
1.8 kn
Wave
0.58 m
Water
23.3°C
N E S W
Wind direction (7d)
Primary: W (17%)
Now: NNE (18°)
Tide (7 days)
range: 0.25m

Today: High 14:00 (-0.48m), Low 05:00 (-0.54m)

+-0.4 m-0.7 m
▼ 05:00 · -0.54m ▼ 08:00 · -0.56m ▲ 14:00 · -0.48m ▼ 17:00 · -0.49m Now -0.5m
Sat 19Sun 20Mon 21Tue 22Wed 23Thu 24Fri 25
UV5.55 · mod Air PM2.56 · good 07:20 19:39
Day Wind Wave UV Rain
09-19 7 0.68 6 0mm
09-20 5.4 0.18 5 0mm
09-21 6.4 0.34 6 0mm
09-22 9.9 0.26 6 0mm
09-23 10.1 0.56 5 0mm
09-24 9 0.38 5 0mm
09-25 9.8 0.42 5 0mm

About this spot

Chapelle Sainte-Thérèse de Sauviou sits in Var, a region known for steady Atlantic and Mediterranean swell patterns. The spot delivers waves throughout the year, making it accessible for surfers planning flexible trips. The break's proximity to the chapel adds regional charm—a landmark that helps orient you to the lineup. This is an unprotected area, so conditions shift with seasonal wind patterns and swell direction. Winter months often bring the most consistent energy, though summer can surprise with warm-water sessions. The coastline around the chapel offers character typical of southern France's surf culture: less crowded than northern breaks, with a local vibe. Twelve species observations and three community videos document the marine environment and conditions here. Water temperature varies seasonally, ranging from cool in winter to pleasant in summer. Always check current conditions before paddling—local forecasts and community reports are your best guides. Access is straightforward with no permit requirements. The location's year-round availability makes it a solid backup option when other French spots face unfavorable conditions.

📖 Guide: Diving in France: 220 Sites From Alpine Lakes to Tropical Reefs

Best months

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Marine life

Common octopus

Dive types

Shore

Trip essentials

Everything you need before you pack — checklist, sun, logistics.

Trip checklist

  • 🛂 Visa-free or visa-on-arrival
  • 🏄 Surfboard or rental confirmation
  • 🧴 Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+
  • 🔌 Plug type C/E/F · 230V adapter
  • 💊 Seasickness meds + ear drops
  • 📱 Offline maps + emergency contact

Quick facts

  • 🌓 Moon First quarter · 48%
  • GPS
Sustainability disclosures
🌍 CO2 footprint LHR ↔ 1042km · ~240kg · €4

FAQ

What are the best months to surf here?

This spot works year-round, with consistent swell throughout the seasons. Winter typically brings stronger, more organized swells, while summer offers warmer water and smaller, mellower waves. Check local forecasts before each trip.

What is the difficulty level and wave height?

Specific difficulty data isn't available, but the spot's year-round accessibility suggests it handles varied skill levels. Check community videos and local reports to gauge current conditions before paddling.

What marine life or ecosystem should I know about?

Twelve species observations have been recorded here. The area is outside any marine protected area, so conditions are less regulated. Research local marine life reports and community posts for current biodiversity information.

How do I access the spot and do I need permits?

No permits are required. Access is straightforward near Chapelle Sainte-Thérèse de Sauviou in Var. Check local regulations and tides before your session, and use community videos to scout entry and exit points.

Operators near this spot

Dive centres, kite & surf schools within 10 km, sourced from OpenStreetMap.

Saint-Mandrier Plongée

9.3 km
Dive centre
Hours: Mo-Su 08:00-19:00

Le Brusc Plongée

3.6 km
Dive centre

Toulon Plongée

9.8 km
Dive centre

Recently spotted by divers

iNaturalist →

See this spot in action

YouTube videos — click to play.

What France Is REALLY Like For Surfing

Kale Brock (Kale Brock)

Summer in Hossegor | FRENCH BEACH BREAK SURFING

Kale Brock (Kale Brock)

French Polynesia - The perfect right point

Manea Fabisch
wind peaks Mar-Nov-Jan, calmest Jun-May-Aug, dry Jan-Dec.

5-year monthly climate

60 samples
0 5 10 15 20 25 JFMAMJJASOND
p25–p75 range Median Wind (kn) Air (°C)

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