The surf spots of Landes are set to come alive: a brand-new concept called Grand Bain Challenge XXL breaks the mold on June 28 and 29, turning Capbreton into a laboratory for inclusive surf & lifestyle. Designed for bigger builds but open to everyone, the event is part of the Capbreton Surf Experience and rounds out an already packed calendar, from the Roxy Surf Festival to the upcoming Quiksilver Pro Capbreton.
Capbreton Surf Experience: a brand-new Grand Bain Challenge XXL
Launched by the Landes Surf Committee and supported by the Santocha Surf Club, the Grand Bain Challenge XXL combines healthy surfing with good times. Santocha Beach will host more than 120 registered participants, divided into “Ocean XXL” categories. The goal: to show that surfing remains accessible, even when the scales start reaching higher numbers.
- Three men’s divisions: L (+85 kg), XL (+92.5 kg), XXL (+100 kg)
- One women’s division: >70 kg
- Free sessions for kids, so families can share the wax
- Free meal at Le Grand Bain restaurant for each competitor
- “Surf Spirit” sunset barbecue to wrap up the celebration
| Category | Weight threshold | Recommended board type | Heat format |
|---|---|---|---|
| L | > 85 kg | Large 6’8” fish | 4 surfers / 20 min |
| XL | > 92.5 kg | 7’2” mini-malibu | 4 surfers / 25 min |
| XXL | > 100 kg | 7’6” retro gun | Head-to-head / 30 min |
| Women | > 70 kg | Hybrid 6’4” | 4 surfers / 20 min |
An Ocean XXL format designed with Wave Riders Capbreton
To streamline logistics, the AquaMotion Capbreton app will provide real-time access to heats and conditions. Volunteers from Wave Riders Capbreton have already tested the format during an internal clinic described in this report on the young generation from Landes. Verdict: the “fun first” atmosphere, combined with a safety briefing led by a lifeguard instructor from Capbreton, has won everyone over.
Surf Spirit Synergy: restaurateurs, Santocha Surf Club and Blue Coast Events
Valentin Houssier, already at the helm of several establishments in Hossegor, is relaunching the concept of his restaurant Le Grand Bain by betting on surfing. “Everyone wins,” summarizes technician Xavier Duvignau. This philosophy aligns with that of Blue Coast Events which handles the off-water entertainment: old-school music trivia, poncho testing in partnership with the All-In brand and the “Évasion Atlantique” paddling contest.
- Meal on the panoramic terrace of Le Grand Bain
- Acoustic DJ set, California vibe
- Surf health booths: nutrition, injury prevention
- Artisanal shaping corner hosted by Billabong Challenge
- “40 Years of Santocha” photo exhibition
| Partner | Role | Added value |
|---|---|---|
| Le Grand Bain | Catering | Meals provided for riders |
| Santocha Surf Club | Race direction | Safety equipment, judges |
| Blue Coast Events | Entertainment | DJ, quizzes, workshops |
| AquaMotion Capbreton | Live coverage | Scores & tides |
Billabong Challenge and Évasion Atlantique, atmosphere catalysts
The organizers are banking on a relaxed atmosphere, true to Landes culture. Towed foil demonstrations, already seen during the adaptive surfing sessions, will take place before nightfall. A raffle will offer the chance to win an Évasion Atlantique trip along Spain’s northern coast.
2025 surf calendar: from the Roxy Surf Festival to the Quiksilver Pro Capbreton
The Grand Bain Challenge XXL kicks off the high season, but the action does not stop there. Capbreton, Hossegor, and Seignosse will also host the French Surfing Championships at the end of October, not to mention the return of the Roxy Surf Festival in July and the highly anticipated Quiksilver Pro Capbreton in September. Competitors can already warm up at the pre-summer Landes Championship.
- July 3–5: Roxy & Quiksilver Junior Pro
- June 28–29: Grand Bain Challenge XXL
- August: Billabong Challenge Night Surf
- September: Quiksilver Pro Capbreton – QS 5000
- Oct. 24–Nov. 2: France 2025 – Hossegor, Seignosse, Capbreton
| Date | Event | Spot | WSL Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| June 28–29 | Grand Bain Challenge XXL | Santocha | Non-ranking |
| July 3–5 | Roxy & Quiksilver Junior Pro | Santocha | 1,000 |
| August | Billabong Challenge | Les Estagnots | Exhibition |
| Sept. | Quiksilver Pro Capbreton | La Piste | 5,000 |
| Oct. 24–Nov. 2 | French Championships | Three spots | National |
A common thread: performance and passing on knowledge
Veterans are actively preparing the next generation. Proof of this: the “Next Gen” program unveiled in this series of video clips enables up-and-coming surfers to combine technical coaching with strength training sessions led by Tya Zebrowski. Capbreton thus confirms its role as a European hub, both for pros and enthusiasts.
How do I register for the Grand Bain Challenge XXL?
FFS license holders can register online via the Landes Surf Committee portal. Non-license holders must provide a medical certificate and purchase an event license on site.
Which board should I choose for the XXL category?
Most riders opt for a mini-malibu or retro gun that offers volume and stability. A moderate rocker and wide tail make late takeoffs easier on Santocha’s powerful waves.
Is the closing barbecue open to the public?
Yes, with a day pass available at the Santocha Surf Club reception desk. Competitors get in free, with the meal included in the registration.
Can women compete in the men’s open division?
Nothing prohibits it. Female surfers over 70 kg already have their own division, but they can request to compete in both, provided they comply with the safety rules.
Where can I find the full 2025 surfing events calendar?
An interactive calendar is updated on the Blue Coast Events platform and shared by the FFS website.