Pont des Basses
Canet-en-Roussillon - France
Spot Type
Chop
Water
Dark - Clear
Beach
Sand
Rider Lever
intermediate
Spot characteristics
Spot Type
Chop
Rider Skill
intermediate
Crowd
Seasonal Crowd
Beach Type
Sand
Water Quality
Dark - Clear
Tide Influence
Tide independent
Description of Pont des Basses (France)
Pont des Basses is an underrated gem just south of Canet-en-Roussillon, near the French-Spanish border. It offers just enough challenge without being overwhelming. You’ve got a wide sandy beach with open sea views on one side and Bouzigues Lake on the other—a great chill spot on no-wind days, sometimes with flamingos.
The beach is spacious and perfect for easy launches and landings, though it gets busier in July and August. During summer, stay within the buoy-marked kite zone to avoid swimmer conflicts. Off-season, there's much more freedom.
Winds are mostly thermal from April to August, kicking in reliably in the afternoons around 15–20 knots—ideal for intermediates working on transitions or freeriding without battling tough conditions. The water is knee-to-waist deep and slightly choppy—fun without being chaotic. Twin-tips are common, and you’ll see some wave boards or foils on windier days.
There’s no rental shop or beach bar, so bring all your gear, water, snacks, and some shade. Parking is easy, right by the beach, and solo launching is straightforward, especially off-season.
The vibe is relaxed, with casual riders and families more than hardcore freestylers. Tramontana wind is offshore here, and without rescue support, it’s best avoided if strong. For reliable wind, space, and a laid-back atmosphere, Pont des Basses is a spot that keeps drawing riders back.
Spot Gallery (4)
Spot best suited for
Spot profile
Family spot
Located in an area that offers amenities for all the family and can provide good alternatives for everyone when the kiters are in the water.
Local spot
Maybe not be worth a real journey to reach this spot, but great if you live close by and it is a windy day. In the end, being out on the water feels great anywhere
Equipment
Most riders will be comfortable with 9m to 12m kites in summer due to the moderate thermal winds, though a smaller kite (7m–8m) can be great when the breeze picks up on bigger NW days. A shorty or 3/2mm wetsuit is ideal from spring to fall; only early spring or late autumn might need something warmer. The sand is generally soft but occasionally mixed with shells, so shoes are optional unless you'r
Wind Conditions
Main wind directions
% of Windy days per month
Wind Speed Range
From 12 to 25 Knots
Suggested sizes
8 - 9 mt
10 - 11 mt
12 - 13 mt
14 mt and above
Forecast on Windy.com
Dangers
The main risk at Pont des Basses is the offshore Tramontana wind. It can pick up fast and shift suddenly, pushing riders out with no rescue support—locals always check forecasts and rig cautiously.
In summer, the beach is packed. Kiting is only allowed in the buoy-marked zone north of the breakwater. Stay inside it to avoid swimmers and problems with the beach patrol.
There are no facilities, so bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and basic tools. The sea floor is shallow and sandy, but watch for debris and seaweed after strong winds. Ride smart and respect the spot.
Location
Closest City
Canet-en-Roussillon
How to get There
From Perpignan-Rivesaltes Airport (PGF), head east on the D117 then pick up the D81A towards Canet-Plage. Follow signs south past the marina toward Pont des Basses. Parking is available directly on the beach road with easy access to the kite launch area.
Access
Free public access with open parking along the beach road. No entry fees or permits required. Kiteboarding is allowed all year, though limited to marked zones from June to September. Launch from the sandy beach just north of the stone breakwater.
What to do besides kitesurfing
Pont des Basses stands out for more than just wind. Nearby Bouzigues Lake offers birdwatching (think flamingos at sunset), and the Voie Verte bike path is perfect for windless days. Just five minutes away, Canet-en-Roussillon has campgrounds, seafood spots, beach bars, and even a beach library.
Off the water, try horseback rides, paddleboarding at Lac sur l’Agly, or hop on the tourist train through coastal towns. It’s a great all-around spot for families or non-kiters too.
There’s no food on the beach, but Canet has you covered with local eats like oysters and croque monsieur—no tourist traps. With affordable stays and a relaxed vibe, it’s easy to see why riders keep coming back.