After 59 days of surfing being banned as part of the general lockdown in France, subject to local rulings by the relevant town halls and local councils, surfing will be once again permitted from this Monday 11th when the first phase of deconfinement lifting lockdown comes into effect.

Following hard-fought campaign from various stakeholders, some outspoken local mayors and a viral uptake of hashtags like #RendezNousNosPlages (#giveusbackourbeaches), while beaches officially remain closed across the country until June 1st, local authorities will be allowed to make exceptions, as announced today by the Minister of the Interior, Christophe Castaner.

“The general rule remains closure, but it will however be nuanced since the prefect may give access on request to mayors provided sufficient arrangements and facilities to guarantee physical distance.”

According to two separate French mates who know about these things, that means we’re gonna be able to surf again in four days.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to drink a cold fucking beer.

Photo: @pindygram