Almanarre
Hyères - France
Spot Type
Chop
Water
Dark - Clear
Beach
Sand
Rider Lever
beginner
Spot characteristics
Spot Type
Chop
Rider Skill
beginner
Crowd
Seasonal Crowd
Beach Type
Sand
Water Quality
Dark - Clear
Tide Influence
Tide independent
Description of Almanarre (France)
Almanarre is one of those kite spots you keep coming back to. Located on the Presqu'île de Giens near Hyères, it offers 5km of beach and reliable wind from spring to autumn. You get two faces here: Mistral winds from the northwest bring onshore swell and ramps for big air, while easterlies flatten the water for freestyle and smooth cruising.
In Mistral, expect fast, fun waves and great freeride sessions with unreal sunset views. Easterlies deliver glassy water, especially upwind near La Madrague—perfect for tricks. The narrow beach can get crowded, and the nearby road makes launching tricky on busy days, so stay alert.
It’s beginner-friendly if you’ve got basic skills down—waterstarts, upwind riding, and some comfort in chop. The depth drops off quickly, so you’ll be treading water fast. From May to October, the wind is frequent and solid, with 3–4 day Mistral runs. A 7–12m kite quiver covers most days. Summer is warm, though a light wetsuit is handy outside peak months.
Crowds peak in July/August, but early sessions or heading downwind help. Outside summer holidays, weekdays can feel nearly empty. The local scene is chill and welcoming, with plenty of riders to swap tips with.
Facilities include public showers, toilets, and a few beach food shacks—grab a sandwich or a pan bagnat during your break. Non-kiters will find hiking, snorkeling, or boat trips to Porquerolles nearby, making it a great all-around destination. Almanarre blends reliable wind, good vibes, and a setup that keeps things simple and soulful.
Spot Gallery (5)
Spot 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
% of Windy days per month
Wind Speed Range
From 10 to 30 Knots
Suggested sizes
Forecast on Windy.com
Dangers
Almanarre is safe for confident riders but can be tricky in crowds. The narrow beach gets busy in summer, so keep your kite low and use hand signals. With a nearby road, crashes can be risky.
The water drops off quickly, making deep water starts harder for beginners. Chop and gusts hit fast—rig smaller if the wind looks strong.
Watch for swim zones marked by buoys. Riding outside of them can lead to fines. Stay alert, follow the rules, and you'll enjoy the session.
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.
What to do besides kitesurfing
Almanarre is ideal for extended stays, with easy access whether you’re in a van or a hotel in Hyères. Parking lines the beach but fills fast in summer—aim for before 10 a.m. and be mindful of space for others’ gear.
Kite shops nearby offer rentals, repairs, and even informal downwinders on windy days. Forgot something? You’re covered. Off the water, explore scenic trails on the Presqu’île de Giens or take a boat to Porquerolles for snorkeling and a relaxed day out.
Hyères has a chill vibe with good food and beach bars—perfect for a post-session bite. Accommodation ranges from beachside campsites to boutique hotels, but book ahead in high season.
Best time? May to October. Almanarre blends steady wind, relaxed energy, and everything you need close by—it’s more than just a session, it’s the full coastal lifestyle.