Discover the tide times for Saint-Jean-le-Thomas in Manche, Normandy. The remarkable tidal range of 10.1m produces some of the most spectacular tidal movements in Europe, completely reshaping the coastline between high and low water.
Our detailed tide predictions for Saint-Jean-le-Thomas provide exact high and low tide times, updated coefficients, and weather data. With a 10.1m tidal range, safety awareness is paramount — always consult the tide schedule and never let an incoming tide cut off your route back to shore.
Average tidal range: 10.1 metres
Ephemeris for Wednesday 28 October
Tidal Characteristics at Saint-Jean-le-Thomas
The 10.1m tidal range at Saint-Jean-le-Thomas creates dramatic coastal transformations. The sea can retreat over a kilometre at low water, exposing vast expanses of sand and rock. The speed of the incoming tide can be surprisingly fast, especially during spring tides — always monitor tide times and plan your return route from the foreshore carefully.
Water Sports & Activities
Swimming
Check the tide times at Saint-Jean-le-Thomas to find the best swimming conditions. At high tide, the water is deeper and more accessible from the beach. Always swim in supervised areas and be aware of currents, especially during spring tides.
High tide
Calm sea
Sea Kayaking
Kayaking at Saint-Jean-le-Thomas requires careful attention to tide times. Launch at high tide for easier access and deeper water. The 10.1m tidal range creates varying paddling conditions. Watch for tidal currents, especially near headlands and channels.
High tide ± 2h
Light wind
Shore Fishing
Shore fishing at Saint-Jean-le-Thomas follows the tide schedule closely. As the tide drops, rock pools and sandbanks are exposed, revealing shellfish and crabs. The 10.1m tidal range at spring tides opens up the richest foraging grounds.
Low tide
Variable
Surfing
Surf conditions at Saint-Jean-le-Thomas depend on tide times and swell direction. Mid-tide often provides the best waves as the tidal range of 10.1m shapes the break. Check forecasts for optimal sessions.
Mid-tide
Offshore wind
Sand Yachting
The large foreshore exposed at low tide near Saint-Jean-le-Thomas creates vast sandy plains perfect for sand yachting. With a 10.1m tidal range, low tide reveals extensive flat beaches. Always check tide times and allow time to clear the beach before the tide returns.
Low tide
Steady wind
Coastal Walking
Explore the foreshore at Saint-Jean-le-Thomas on foot during low tide. The 10.1m tidal range reveals fascinating landscapes of rock pools, sand flats, and marine life. Always monitor the tide schedule — the incoming tide can advance quickly.
Low tide
Clear skies
Shore Fishing
Shore fishing at Saint-Jean-le-Thomas is closely tied to the tide schedule. The best opportunities come as the tide drops, exposing rock pools, shellfish beds, and sandy flats. Common species found during low-tide foraging include clams, cockles, mussels, razor clams, and crabs. Always check the tide times and coefficients before heading out — spring tides with high coefficients reveal the richest foraging grounds. A valid fishing permit is required, and minimum size regulations must be respected to protect marine resources.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tides
What time is the next high tide at Saint-Jean-le-Thomas?
Check the real-time tide schedule at the top of this page for the next high tide at Saint-Jean-le-Thomas. The calendar shows precise times for the coming days. Remember to also check the weather forecast and water temperature to plan your coastal activities safely.
Does the wind affect tide times at Saint-Jean-le-Thomas?
High and low tide times at Saint-Jean-le-Thomas are calculated astronomically and do not change with the wind. However, weather conditions do influence actual water levels: a strong offshore wind can lower high tide levels by 10-30cm, while an onshore wind can raise them. These variations should be considered during spring tides.
How do I read a tide table?
The tide table for Saint-Jean-le-Thomas shows alternating high and low tides throughout the day. Coefficients (shown for each high tide) indicate the amplitude: with a tidal range of 10.1m, a coefficient of 100 will produce much larger water level changes than a coefficient of 40. Use these figures to plan your activities safely.
Why do tide times change every day at Saint-Jean-le-Thomas?
Tide times shift by approximately 50 minutes each day because the Moon takes 24 hours and 50 minutes to complete one orbit relative to any point on Earth. Coefficients also vary with the alignment of Earth, Moon, and Sun: when aligned (full or new moon), tides are amplified — these are spring tides.
What is the tidal range at Saint-Jean-le-Thomas?
The average tidal range at Saint-Jean-le-Thomas in Normandy is 10.1 metres. This represents the typical difference between high and low water levels. During spring tides (coefficient above 90), the range can be considerably greater, while neap tides produce smaller differences.
Understanding Tides
The tides at Saint-Jean-le-Thomas follow a semi-diurnal pattern, with two high tides and two low tides each day, shifting approximately 50 minutes later every 24 hours. The English Channel acts as a funnel, amplifying tidal movements as the oceanic tidal wave is squeezed between the coasts of France and England. This resonance effect explains the particularly large tidal ranges observed in this region. Spring tides (coefficients above 90) produce the most dramatic water level changes.
Spring Tides
During spring tides at Saint-Jean-le-Thomas (coefficients above 90), the tidal range can exceed the average 10.1m significantly. Take these precautions: always check the tide times before walking on the foreshore; never turn your back on the sea; be aware that the incoming tide can advance very rapidly, potentially cutting off your return route; stay well away from sea walls and harbour edges where waves can overtop; keep children under close supervision. In case of difficulty, call emergency services on 196 (sea rescue).
Nearby Ports
Practical Information
Average tidal range
10.1 metres
