Live wind
Water & wetsuit
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About this spot
The Presqu'île de Giens near Hyères is a 5 km long double sand tombolo connecting the Giens peninsula to the mainland. The western beach (Almanarre) faces the open Mediterranean and works with the strong Mistral from the west; the eastern beach works with easterly winds. One spot, two directions — which is why it is one of the most reliable kite spots on the French Riviera.
The Mistral (W to NW) blows side-onshore on the Almanarre side, often 20–35 knots, gusty near the shore; easterly (E to SE) winds blow onshore on the eastern beach and bring waves to Almanarre. This card's compass covers the Almanarre (west) side. The water deepens moderately, the bottom is sand, and the famous salt flats and flamingos of the Salins d'Hyères lie between the two beaches. In summer the beach is packed and kite zones are enforced.
Kite schools and centres operate at Almanarre in season; parking along the tombolo road (paid in summer); Hyères and Toulon are nearby. Warm water June to October. Suited to all levels in moderate wind; strong Mistral days are for experienced riders.
3-day forecast
Speed / gusts in knots. Colour = rideability for this spot. Bottom row = recommended kite size for your weight — not recommended outside this spot's 12–32 kn range.
Conditions
- Water
- choppy, waves, flat
- Depth
- Shelves to moderate depth
- Seabed
- sand
- Skill
- beginner, intermediate, expert
- Beginners
- Beginner friendly
- Wind range
- 12 kn – 32 kn
Access & parking
Route du Sel along the Giens tombolo, Hyères; Almanarre beach on the west side.
Parking: Paid parking along the tombolo in season.
Amenities
- Kite schools & centres
- Salins d'Hyères nature area
- Hyères & Toulon nearby
Needs local verification: Details compiled from general sources and not yet confirmed by local riders — check launch, parking and current rules on site. No spot-specific webcam verified; links go to Windy's nearby cams and wind map.
Local hazards
- Strong gusty Mistral (20–35+ kn)
- Summer crowds and kite zones
- Waves and shore break in easterly swells