Surf safe: Tides, currents & ocean safety in Vieux-Boucau
Surfing in Vieux-Boucau is pure joy — from mellow waves to punchy beach breaks. But the ocean is powerful and constantly shifting. If you want to hit the water safely, it’s essential to understand the tides, currents, and what to do in an emergency. In this blog, you’ll learn everything you need to surf with confidence.
HOW DO TIDES WORK?
The Atlantic Ocean has strong tides, and you’ll definitely feel them on the beaches of Vieux-Boucau. Twice a day, the tide comes in and goes out. This affects when and where the waves are at their best. Often, the most beautiful waves roll in right after high tide, while low tide can reveal sandbanks that are tricky to navigate. Always check a local tide chart in advance — sites like Magicseaweed or Windguru are great tools to help you plan.
RIP CURRENTS: THE INVISIBLE FORCE THAT PULLS YOU OUT
A rip current (or ‘rip’) is a narrow, fast-moving stream of water that flows from the beach straight out to sea. They’re not always easy to spot, but they can pull you dozens of meters out in seconds. Don’t panic: never try to swim against the current. Instead, let it carry you out calmly, then swim diagonally parallel to the shore until you’re out of the flow. From there, you can paddle back to safer water.
Signs of a rip:
- A patch of water with no breaking waves (seems calm, but isn’t)
Sand or foam flowing outward - A difference in water color
HOW TO ENTER THE WATER SAFELY
Before heading into the waves:
- Check the flags posted by lifeguards (green = good, red = no surfing)
- Watch where other surfers are entering the water
- Do a quick warm-up
- Always surf with a buddy or let someone know you’re going
And: wear your leash. It might seem obvious, but your board is your lifeline if you get tired or panicked.
EMERGENCY? HERE’S WHAT TO DO
If you get into trouble:
- Raise your arm and wave for help
- Stay calm, save your energy
- Witnessing someone in trouble? Alert the lifeguards or call 112. Don’t try to play the hero unless you’re trained to do so
Pro tip: in summer, there are lifeguard posts on the beaches of Vieux-Boucau. Their local knowledge is worth its weight in gold.
SURFING WITH RESPECT FOR THE OCEAN
The ocean is your playground, but it also deserves respect. The more you understand what’s happening beneath the surface, the more fun (and safe) your sessions will be. Plus, it’s way more relaxing to paddle out when you know what you’re dealing with.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned surfer, these basics will help you surf not just better, but smarter.
So wax up your board, keep these tips in mind, and enjoy every session — with confidence and good vibes. The waves of Vieux-Boucau are worth it.
