HIGHLIGHTS | BEACHES | PRACTICAL INFO | ACTIVITIES | ACCOMMODATION
At once surf-cool and chic, Biarritz’s large sandy beaches and boutique-lined hilly streets have been drawing the great and the good since way back when.
Biarritz is graced by artists, surfers and good time chasers from around the world. It’s a story of two halves; with its belle époque mansions standing tall on the cliff top and road-trippin’ surfers, the sun-bleached summer destination is a cultural mash-up of 19th-century opulence and grass roots cool.
Our active holiday guide to Biarritz will take you through the sports orientated must-dos of this classic French seaside town, plus we’ll give you the lowdown on the best bars, restaurants, hotels and highlights along the way…
Biarritz Highlights
A sandy inlet softly curving inwards from the jumble of jagged rocks that make up the spiny Basque coast, Biarritz is the most accessible seaside town on the Landes coast. Sandwiched a mere 20 minutes between the Spanish frontier and the quaint town of Bayonne to the north, the small but mighty seaside village is renowned for its indoor markets, winding medieval avenues and a booming action sports industry that caters to all age ranges.
Providing impeccable transport links from the neighbouring airport into the centre of town and deep into the heart of the Basque country, visitors are free to unplug and relax, exploring the town and its environs by bike, foot or sea!
Biarritz Beaches
Home to six long beaches of pure golden sand pounded by surf, Biarritz pulls in a lively crowd from far and wide looking to enjoy sun rays and rolling surf. A top spot for any surfer worth his salt, Biarritz’s Côte des Basques is given legendary status among the endless summer tribe as they descend in their beatnik campers to enjoy playful waves and chilled-out midsummer nights.
Biarritz’s beaches are ram jammed with people on sunny summer days and it’s the same in the surf with hundreds of surfers competing for waves. In July and August, the Grande Plage is lined with the famous brightly coloured striped bathing tents which adorn Basque country postcards all along the Bay of Biscay. North of the Hotel du Palais is Plage Miramar hemmed in to the north by Pointe Saint-Martin with its lighthouse, the Phare de Biarritz. North of Pointe Saint-Martin, the sandy beaches or Anglet stretch for 4 km.
The southern end of the Grande Plage is bound by an outcrop of rocks capped by the Rocher de la Vierge. Immediately to the south of the rocks, a small protected beach called Plage du Port Vieux is good for swimming. A few hundred meters further on begins the long, exposed Plage de la Cote des Basques which has good waves for surfing. At the southern end of Plage de la Cote des Basques are two more beaches – Plage de Marbella and Plage de la Milady, both are good for surfing, but Plage de la Milady has more rocks.
My Perfect Day in Biarritz – by Guillaume Nicolas
Breakfast at the Milwaukee Café is my favourite way to start the day. This coffee shop is right in the centre of Biarritz on Rue du Helder and it’s my new favourite place for morning coffee. There’s a welcoming atmosphere and cool, American inspired decor that fits in well with Biarritz’s surf town image. Enjoy a satisfying mid-morning brunch or a tasty lunch made entirely with local produce. Or, grab a delicious coffee at any time to give you that caffeine boost you need before your surf session.
Once you’ve had your fill, it’s time to grab your surfboard and wetsuit and head to La Grande Plage for a surf. Paddle out to the peak and hang out beyond the break with the locals before catching the ride of your life on the crest of one of Biarritz’s famous waves.
When you’ve paddled so much your arms feel like noodles, it’s time for a well-earned rest. Make a b-line for Bali Bowls on Place Clémenceau (just next to Le Newquay) for a healthly smoothie, acai balls, a fresh fruit juice, or perhaps another coffee. If you’re really hungry, head to the Port des Pêcheurs where you can lunch on plates of seafood and fresh fish.
Stroll over to Port Vieux beach to let your food go down before you get back in the water. For your second surf of the day you can mix it up a bit and head to the Côte des Basques along Boulevard du Prince de Galles. Enjoy the famous long rides and admire the stunning backdrop while you wait for your next wave.
End your day watching the sun go down from the top of the Cents Marches before having a beer and tapas at the legendary Etxola Bibi. If the tapas doesn’t quite do it, book a table at Le Surfing which overlooks the surf spot. The perfect end to a perfect day in Biarritz!
Practical Info
To avoid spending your summer holiday in a traffic jam, ditch the car and put your pedal to the metal with bike rental the easiest and most accessible mode of transport. The town is also well connected with regular bus services to the train station and airport as well as free shuttle services to the neighbouring beach towns of Saint Jean De Luz and Hendaye. Cheap local buses are available throughout the year and leave from designated points around the centre.
Parking
Free parking up and down the winding avenues is available but scarce during the summer holidays. Most hotels and campsites will offer complimentary parking with your stay, but for those of you looking for street or beachside parking, expect to pay – or use the designated underground parking available throughout the town.
Bike Hire
Bike rental is big business in Biarritz. Get the latest electric bikes, mountain bikes, fat bikes, hybrid bikes, road bikes and kids bikes, and also scooters and motorbikes from local rental shops for as little as €30 per day. Joe Bike is a one stop shop for renting bikes for half-day, daily or weekly hire. They also offer guided tours for groups looking to explore the coastline and electric mountain biking trips in the Basque Country.
Active things to do in Biarritz
Biarritz is a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a perfect blend of ocean adventures and rugged Basque Country landscapes. Whether you’re looking to ride the legendary waves with a surf lesson, glide along the coastline on a stand-up paddleboard, or take on the adrenaline rush of canyoning and rafting down the Nive River, there’s no shortage of thrilling experiences. For those who love exploring on foot, the hiking trails of the Basque Country hills provide breathtaking views, while the Via Ferrata routes offer a unique way to scale the cliffs. Out at sea, you can set sail on a catamaran or traditional yacht, paddle through hidden coves on a sea kayaking adventure, and soak in the beauty of the Atlantic. Whether you’re a salty seadog or strictly terra firma, Biarritz is the ultimate playground for an action-packed holiday.
Here’s our list of the Best Outdoor Activities in Biarritz:
1. Learn To Surf
Biarritz is the epicentre of European surfing, and there’s no better place to catch your first waves than Côte des Basques beach. La Vague Basque offers expert-led surf lessons for all levels, whether you’re a beginner looking to catch your first wave or an intermediate surfer refining your technique. With top-quality equipment provided and experienced instructors, you’ll be ripping it up in no time. Choose from group lessons for a fun, social experience or private coaching for personalised instruction, and if you’re looking for full immersion, multi-day courses will take your skills to the next level. Book your session and experience the thrill of surfing in one of France’s most iconic surf spots!
2. Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Glide across the calm, sheltered waters of Saint-Jean-de-Luz on a stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) adventure with Luzpaddle. This picturesque Basque town, once a historic privateer haven, is now a paradise for watersports enthusiasts. Whether you’re a beginner or looking for a fun way to explore, SUP is a relaxing yet engaging activity that lets you soak in the breathtaking coastal scenery. Paddle along the wild beauty of Erromardi beach, navigating between rocky outcrops and cliffs with panoramic views of the Pyrenees. With expert instructors guiding the way, this is the perfect way to experience the Basque coast from a unique perspective.
3. Rafting the Nive River near Biarritz
For an exciting white-water adventure, head to the Nive River in Itxassou, just a short drive from Biarritz. Surrounded by the rolling Basque countryside, this rafting experience with NCKD offers the perfect mix of adrenaline and natural beauty. Whether you’re a first-time rafter or a seasoned whitewater enthusiast, you’ll navigate through fun rapids and swirling currents, all under the guidance of expert instructors. Paddle as a team, take on the river’s playful waves, and soak in the breathtaking scenery of steep cliffs and Pyrenees foothills. A must-do activity for anyone looking to add a dose of adventure to their time in the Basque Country!
4. Hiking in the Basque COuntry
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Basque Country near Biarritz on a guided hike with Laëti’tes Balades. Explore coastal trails with panoramic ocean views and scenic inland routes through rolling green hills and rugged peaks, you’ll experience the region’s diverse landscapes first-hand. Led by a passionate local guide, you’ll learn about Basque culture, nature, and history while trekking through some of the area’s most spectacular spots. With trips available year-round, hiking in the Basque Country is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of the Biarritz hinterland.
5. Canyoning in the Basque Country
Take on the thrills of canyoning in the stunning Valcarlos canyon near Bidarray. Perfect for mixed-ability groups, this adventure lets you slide down natural rock chutes, jump into crystal-clear pools, and navigate exciting water passages—all under the guidance of expert instructors. With optional obstacles and small abseils, Valcarlos is an ideal canyon for beginners, while still offering plenty of fun for more experienced adventurers. Surrounded by wild Pyrenean landscapes, this is an exhilarating way to explore the hidden beauty of the Basque Country while making unforgettable memories with friends, family, or fellow adventurers!
6. Via Ferrata in Bidarray near Biarritz
For an exhilarating mix of rock climbing, zip lines, and high ropes, head to Les Rochers du Batzan near Bidarray. This Via Ferrata course will have you scaling ladders, suspension bridges, and natural rock features high above the stunning Batzan canyon, with breathtaking views of the Basque countryside. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, the course is designed to be accessible to all, with safety operators on hand and alternative routes for those who prefer a gentler challenge. Just 30 minutes from Biarritz, via ferrata is ideal for solo adventurers, families, or groups of friends looking to add a vertical thrill to their Basque Country adventure!
Where to Stay
Biarritz has something for every budget. Offering a range of family friendly hotels and regal 5* stays, you can take your pick on the seafront this summer. The hotel of choice for A-listers, Hôtel du Palaisis a high-luxe paradise, whilst Le Regina offers contemporary cool and comfortable luxury. Further down the road sits the clean and calm Hôtel Saint Julien – ideal for small families and Hôtel Florida the best cheap and chic option for B&B or self-catering.
Where to Eat
When it comes to fine dining on the coast, Biarritz is a blend of traditional French cuisine and unique Basque delicacies. Offering good vibes and good views to match, Le Surfing is the best sun trap spot for lazy evenings and sunset sessions. For the best burger with a serious cult appeal, all the cool kids are hanging out in the centre of town at Le Cab, the ideal spot for post-surf drinks and cheap eats. If fresh seafood is more your thing, then head over to Chez Albert– close enough to smell the sea, their catch of the day can’t be beaten. If you’re looking to change direction altogether and enjoy some comfort food, head over to Il Giardino, one of the best family-run eateries in town.
Where to Drink
Kick back and relax with a few cheeky drinks on the strip and enjoy the cocktail culture that well and truly puts the fizz in your mojito! Newquay is the local’s local, offering cheap beer and regular band nights the Clémenceau watering hole is a relaxed go to for student types and budget travellers. Situated in heart of Les Halles, Bar Jean is an atypical joint loved by tapas tasters and a more sophisticated crowd – get your hands on a pre-dinner apero to start the night in style. If you’re looking to amp up the ambience, Bar de La Plage is your place. Offering live music and a bustling crowd, get there early to guarantee a seat. When the night calls for custom cocktails and a lively atmosphere head down to Chez Miguel; a small but quaint retro bar with party goers that spill into the street most nights. Make sure to taste their home made rums – but consume at your own peril, they pack quite the punch!
Please leave a comment below if you need specific advice for your trip to Biarritz, or if you have any recommendations to help us improve this guide. Happy holidays!
Thank you so much for this blog article. We’re off to Biarritz in a couple of weeks, and had no idea what to expect. Thanks for all the tips & advice – really looking forward to visiting the place now 🙂