Big tides
Big tides 2026 in France
Check the dates, coefficients, and schedules for the next big tides along the coast.
Find the main 2026 big-tide periods in France, with the dates to watch and the associated coefficients.
These indications help plan a coastal walk, shore fishing trip, or visit to the shoreline. Before leaving, always check the tide times for the exact place concerned.
Next big tide
Big-tides calendar 2026
January 2026
- 95Sunday, January 04, 2026Tuesday, January 06, 2026
February 2026
- 97Monday, February 02, 2026Thursday, February 05, 2026
- 97Thursday, February 19, 2026Saturday, February 21, 2026
March 2026
- 98Tuesday, March 03, 2026Friday, March 06, 2026
- 103Thursday, March 19, 2026Monday, March 23, 2026
April 2026
- 93Thursday, April 02, 2026Saturday, April 04, 2026
- 103Friday, April 17, 2026Monday, April 20, 2026
May 2026
- 98Saturday, May 16, 2026Tuesday, May 19, 2026
June 2026
- 95Monday, June 15, 2026Wednesday, June 17, 2026
July 2026
- 97Wednesday, July 15, 2026Friday, July 17, 2026
August 2026
- 102Wednesday, August 12, 2026Sunday, August 16, 2026
- 92Sunday, August 30, 2026Monday, August 31, 2026
September 2026
- 102Thursday, September 10, 2026Monday, September 14, 2026
- 98Sunday, September 27, 2026Wednesday, September 30, 2026
October 2026
- 96Saturday, October 10, 2026Monday, October 12, 2026
- 99Monday, October 26, 2026Thursday, October 29, 2026
November 2026
- 97Tuesday, November 24, 2026Friday, November 27, 2026
December 2026
- 99Thursday, December 24, 2026Sunday, December 27, 2026
Check tide times for your harbour, beach, or town
The calendar dates help identify the periods to watch. Before leaving, check the tide times for the harbour, beach, or town concerned.
Low tide, high tide, and water height can vary between areas. A local check helps plan a safer return time.
Understanding big tides
A big tide is a period when the tide coefficient is high. The higher the coefficient, the more marked the difference between high tide and low tide can be.
The coefficient gives a general indication, but it is not enough to plan a trip. Shoreline shape, water heights, weather, and the exact location can all change the conditions observed on site.
Big tides and shore fishing
Big tides often attract shore fishers because more of the foreshore is exposed around low tide. This larger range can make some areas easier to reach, but it also increases the risk of being caught by the incoming tide.
For shore fishing, identify local low tide, keep a return margin, and avoid unfamiliar areas when the weather or visibility is poor.
Safety checks before going out
During a big tide, the foreshore can be widely exposed, but some access points become unusable on the way back. Do not go far out without knowing the following high tide time, your return route, and the weather conditions.
The information displayed on this page is indicative. For any trip involving safety, also check local guidance and official sources.
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Frequently asked questions about big tides
What is a big tide?+
A big tide is generally when the coefficient exceeds a high level, often around 90. The actual effect also depends on the place, weather, and shoreline configuration.
Why do spring tides happen near the equinoxes?+
The strongest coefficients appear when the Earth, Moon, and Sun align.
These configurations occur mainly around the equinoxes.
Where are the strongest tidal ranges in France?+
The largest tidal ranges are generally observed in:
- the English Channel
- Brittany
- the northern Atlantic coast
Is a high coefficient enough to plan a trip?+
No. The coefficient gives a general trend, but you should also check local times, water height, weather, wind, and access conditions.
When should you return during shore fishing?+
Plan to return before the tide starts making access difficult. The margin depends on the place, terrain, route, and weather conditions.
About the displayed data+
Times, heights, and coefficients shown on this site are provided for information only.
They are not official and do not replace data published by the competent authorities.
