Capbreton combines beaches and a port with a distinctive storytelling culture. When planning your trip, you can focus on different aspects: its seven beaches, the town’s maritime side, or Capbreton’s history as a port town.
Beaches, surfing and a walk above the ocean
Capbreton has about 5.6 kilometers of beaches between Hossegor to the north and Labenne to the south. The seven beaches in total offer opportunities for swimming and relaxing, as well as occasional water sports. Local rules and supervision may change, so follow the information provided on site.
Santocha Beach has a particular connection to surfing: it is in high demand among surf schools and is a popular meeting place for surfers and families. Surf conditions vary. If you’re looking for a specific surfing connection, you can therefore distinguish Santocha from the general swimming opportunities and occasional water sports available at the beaches.
The Estacade offers a different perspective on the coast. You can walk almost 190 meters out over the ocean on the oak-wood pier. A lighthouse was added to the Estacade in 1948. The beach and the Estacade thus offer two different ways to experience Capbreton’s coast: relaxing by the water or walking out over the ocean.
Port, fishing and marine life
Capbreton’s port is the only port in the Landes département. Artisanal fishing takes place there. A fish market is held daily at the foot of the harbor master’s office, with the selection depending on the day’s catch. The daily schedule and dependence on the catch go hand in hand; if the market is important to your plans, bear this in mind.
Alongside its maritime activities, the area also has a marine natural history: the depths of the Gouf, crossed by warm currents, are home to distinctive marine species. This is a different facet from fishing and the market, and offers a point of interest for anyone curious about the underwater world.
The history of the port town and storytelling culture
At the Maison de l’Oralité et du Patrimoine, Capbreton’s history as a port town, from the Middle Ages to the present day, is presented in an engaging way. The institution also displays original works from Capbreton’s heritage collection, including paintings, sculptures, maps and objects. The works on display may change. Audio guides are available in French, Spanish, English, German and Occitan-Gascon; check before your trip whether this service is available.
Storytelling is also the focus of a dedicated institution: the Pôle de l’Oralité in Capbreton is devoted to stories and storytellers. Its annual highlight, the Festival du conte, takes place in spring. Exact dates and the program may change. If you’d like to plan your trip around the festival, check the dates in advance.
Tastings as another point of interest
The Domaine de la Pointe offers tours and tastings of Capbreton’s Vin de sable. Check availability before your trip. Together with the fish market and artisanal fishing, this offers another culinary perspective on the town, alongside its beaches and cultural attractions.
Discover more destinations: Lacquy, Saint-Pandelon, Labastide-D'armagnac, Tosse, Garein, Biscarrosse-Plage, Seignosse, Saint-Loubouer.
For the overview of the wider area: Landes.
