Kitesurfing in Almanarre
Hyères - France
Spot Type
Chop
Water
Dark - Clear
Beach
Sand
Rider Level
beginner
Spot characteristics
Spot Type
Chop
Rider Skill
beginner
Crowd
Seasonal Crowd
Beach Type
Sand
Water Quality
Dark - Clear
Tide Influence
Tide independent
Kitesurfing in Almanarre: Conditions, Wind & Season
Almanarre, on the Presqu’île de Giens near Hyères in southern France, is one of the Mediterranean’s best-known kitesurfing destinations. The long sandy beach stretches for almost 5 kilometres along the western side of the peninsula, offering plenty of space and a variety of conditions depending on the wind direction. The Mistral from the west and northwest creates onshore chop and waves with plenty of ramps for jumping and freeride, while easterly winds can produce much flatter and smoother water.
Almanarre is particularly reliable from spring through autumn, with the Mistral often arriving in multi-day runs and providing frequent riding opportunities. Easterly conditions can produce very flat water, making them attractive for freestyle and cruising, although the wind direction requires confident riding and appropriate safety awareness. The beach is relatively narrow and the water gets deep quickly, so launching and landing require care, particularly when the spot is busy or the Mistral is strong and gusty. During the summer season, kitesurfing is restricted to designated areas, so riders should follow the local beach regulations and use the appropriate launch and riding zones.
Beyond kitesurfing, Almanarre and the surrounding Presqu’île de Giens offer plenty to explore. The Route du Sel is ideal for walking and cycling, while the nearby salt marshes are home to flamingos and other birdlife. Hyères and the surrounding coastline offer opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, hiking and boat trips to the Îles d’Or, including the beautiful island of Porquerolles. With its combination of reliable wind, Mediterranean scenery, warm weather and a lively watersports community, Almanarre makes an excellent destination for both dedicated kiters and travellers looking for a varied coastal holiday.
Spot Gallery (5)
Almanarre is best suited for
Spot profile
Travel spot
The typical kite travel destination, it is known for its great conditions, and kiters from around the world come here for their vacations.
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
You’ll want a solid kite quiver to cover a decent range—typically 7m to 12m kites will handle anything Almanarre throws at you between 10 and 30 knots. On flat easterly days you’ll be nicely powered on a 12m. When the Mistral rolls in fast, a 7m will save your session. Wetsuit-wise, summer months are shorty or boardshorts weather, but early spring or late autumn you’re going to need at least a 3/2
Wind Conditions
Main wind directions at Almanarre
Windy days per month in Almanarre
Wind Speed Range
From 10 to 30 Knots
Suggested sizes
Forecast on Windy.com
Kitesurfing Safety & Local Rules at Almanarre
Almanarre is well suited to confident riders, but the narrow beach can become very crowded during the summer season. Launching and landing require particular attention, especially when the Mistral is strong and gusty. Keep the kite under control, allow plenty of space from other riders and beach users, and follow the designated launch and riding areas. The nearby road also means that losing control close to the beach can have serious consequences.
The water becomes deep relatively quickly, so beginners may find water starts and self-rescue more challenging than at shallow-water spots. Strong Mistral conditions can produce fast-building chop, gusts and waves, so choose your kite size carefully and consider local advice before launching. Pay close attention to the marked swimming areas and buoys, as kitesurfing restrictions apply in certain zones, particularly during the busy summer season.
Location
Closest City
Hyères
How to get There
By car: From Toulon, follow the D559 towards Hyères, then continue on the D559 until you reach the Presqu'île de Giens. By flight: Fly into Toulon-Hyères Airport and then drive to the Presqu'île de Giens.
Access
Publicly accessible, with no private or regulated accesses. However, there are specific kite areas marked during peak season.
No-Wind Days: What to Do Around Almanarre
Almanarre is ideal for extended stays, with easy access whether you’re travelling in a van or staying in a hotel in Hyères. When the wind takes a break, the area around the Presqu’île de Giens offers plenty of ways to enjoy the Mediterranean without a kite. The Port-Cros National Park covers much of the surrounding coastline and islands, with hiking trails, protected natural areas and spectacular Mediterranean scenery to explore.
For a change of scenery, take the boat from La Tour Fondue to Porquerolles, the largest of the Hyères islands. The island is perfect for a full day away from the kite beach, with sandy beaches, turquoise water, pine forests and quiet trails to explore by foot or bicycle. Cycling is particularly popular on the island, while swimming, snorkelling and exploring the coastal paths provide plenty to do when there is no wind.
Closer to Almanarre, the Olbia Archaeological Site is an interesting alternative to another day on the beach. Located directly on the Almanarre road, this ancient Greek fortified trading post dates back to the 4th century BC and offers a fascinating glimpse into the area's Mediterranean history. You can also explore the villages and small harbours around the Giens Peninsula or simply enjoy the beaches and coastline.
If you prefer to stay active, the area offers cycling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, diving, snorkelling and boat excursions. The Port-Cros National Park provides information about hiking routes and activities both on land and in the sea, including diving and snorkelling around the protected islands and coastline. The park also features nature and heritage sites that can be explored independently or through guided activities.
After a day outside, Hyères and the surrounding peninsula offer plenty of restaurants, cafés and relaxed seaside spots for an evening meal or drink. With its combination of coastal hiking, island excursions, swimming, cycling, nature and Provençal culture, Almanarre works just as well as a holiday destination as it does as a kitesurfing spot. Even when the wind disappears for a few days, there is enough to explore around Hyères and the Giens Peninsula to keep the trip interesting.
