Spring tides are unmissable events for lovers of the coast and fishing enthusiasts. Every year, they attract thousands of curious people who come to admire the spectacle of the waves or explore the beaches discovered at low tide. But beyond their beauty, these tides require vigilance and respect for safety instructions.
Why are spring tides so impressive?
According to Actu.fr, the origin of high tides lies in the alignment of the moon, the sun and the earth, amplifying the movements of the sea. When this alignment occurs, the tidal coefficients soar, sometimes exceeding the 100. As a reminder, the coefficients vary between 20 and 120, and we are talking about high tides above 90.
Looking back at an exceptional year 2024
The year 2024 left its mark with spectacular coefficients, sometimes reaching 117 in March. “It was a year full of remarkable tides,” remember local residents. The famous “tides of the century” are located from a coefficient of 118, testifying to the rare intensity observed.
More moderate tides in 2025
If 2024 was intense, the year 2025 promises to be calmer. The month of March nevertheless stands out with the highest tides of the year. On March 30 and 31, the coefficients will reach 114, without however crossing the 115 mark. “This year will be more lenient for coastal professionals, always on the alert during high tides,” confides a local expert.
The key dates for the 2025 spring tides in Vendée
Here are the main dates to remember for observing or fishing on foot in Les Sables-d'Olonne, where the coefficients will exceed 90.
January
- January 30 : coefficient 93 – High water at 5:34 p.m., low water at 11:35 p.m.
- January 31 : coefficients 96 and 98 – High tide at 5:49 a.m. and 6:11 p.m.
FEBRUARY
- February 1 : coefficient 99 – High tide at 6:29 a.m. and 6:49 p.m.
- February 28 : coefficient 104 – High tide at 4:49 a.m. and 5:12 p.m.
Mars
- 1er mars : coefficient 110 – High tide at 5:28 a.m. and 5:49 p.m.
- March 30 and 31 : coefficient 114 – High tide at 6:04 a.m. and 6:24 p.m.
Avril
- 28 avril : coefficient 108 – High tide at 5:43 a.m. and 6:01 p.m.
May
- May 27 : coefficient 97 – High tide at 5:28 a.m. and 5:46 p.m.
August
- August 11 : coefficient 95 – High tide at 6:48 a.m. and 7:04 p.m.
September
- September 9 : coefficient 106 – High tide at 6:22 a.m. and 6:39 p.m.
October
- October 8 : coefficient 109 – High tide at 5:55 a.m. and 6:16 p.m.
November
- November 6 : coefficient 106 – High tide at 4:33 a.m. and 4:59 p.m.
December
- December 5 : coefficient 98 – High tide at 4:21 a.m. and 4:52 p.m.
Weather conditions: a key factor
While the coefficients indicate the power of the tides, it is important to remember that weather conditions play a determining role. Wind, atmospheric pressure and swell can accentuate the effects of tides, making coastal walks more risky.
A show not to be missed
Whether to admire the waves hitting the sea walls or to explore the beaches at low tide, the spring tides of 2025 will offer their share of wonder. Don't forget to check the timetables and follow the safety instructions to fully enjoy this spectacular natural phenomenon.
