L'Hippodrome

📍 Local Knowledge

L'Hippodrome in Côte d'Azur is an exposed beach and reef break that frequently remains flat during the summer months. It performs best when a southwest swell combines with offshore winds from the west-northwest, benefiting from some natural shelter against southerly winds. While local windswells are far more typical than groundswells, the spot offers a variety of waves, including left and right-handers at the beach and both left and right reef breaks, with the right being the standout. The conditions are most favorable around a rising high tide, though the lineup is likely to be crowded whenever the surf is working. Surfers should be prepared for several hazards, including water pollution, strong rips, rocks, a heavy shorebreak, and a particularly sketchy entry when the swell size increases.