Technical details of Pont Levis in Sète spot

Spot functioning

Pont-Levis is the main spot on the Étang de Thau for kitesurfing — official zone open year-round. The "toc" (sandbank) runs the entire length of the lagoon (~12 km discontinuously from Sète to Marseillan), separating flat water (shore side, shallow) from a choppy/wave zone (open side, deeper).

In Tramontane (NW), the sandbank is offshore: perfect flat on the shore side, chop on the open side. Ideal for freestyle, long distance, and learning. Possible 12 km downwind to Maldormir/Marseillan.

Rigging and launching from the car park is strictly forbidden (reserved for windsurf/wing). Everything happens on the sandbank at the end of the jetty.

]]>

Required level

Intermediate

Spot opening date

Open all year round

Parking

Large free gravel car park by the water (overnight camping possible). Height barrier 2.20 m. Beware of car theft in summer: don't leave keys near wheels or in combination locks (easily forced).

Spot access: from the car park, walk along the jetty (800 m). After 50 m, step down left and wade through water in an arc to reach the second part of the jetty. Allow 15 min walking into the wind, gear on your back. Don't forget anything in the car!

]]>

Hazards

Very small launch area: the sandbank can be as small as a tennis court on some days. Fold your lines during breaks to leave space. Launch/land one at a time.

Sea urchins and stinging anemones: booties essential, long wetsuit or rash guard recommended. Don't ride in just a swimsuit.

Fishing stakes and nets: downwind of the sandbank, don't go too far. Ride along the jetty.

Tranquility zone: prefectoral decree prohibits sailing in the central part of the sandbanks (major biodiversity concerns). Look for yellow buoys in summer.

Bird nesting: in summer, stay away from the second jetty (protected nesting birds). Go through the water.

Shallow bottom: helmet strongly recommended.

Offshore wind: Tramontane pushes out to sea — experienced riders only.

]]>

Wind specificities

Tramontane (NW): dominant wind, well established and not too gusty. Generally strong. THE reference wind for Pont-Levis — offshore relative to the jetty, creating ultra-flat water on the shore side and chop on the open side. Wind can increase rapidly!

Mistral (N/NE): also works well, similar conditions. In E/NE winds, stay away from Mont Saint-Clair which creates turbulence.

Summer thermal (S/SW): light afternoon breeze, often insufficient here — head to Les 3 Digues on the sea side if thermal only.

Avoid: SE — sheltered by Mont Saint-Clair.

]]>

Update

If you notice any outdated information:
Send an update