Côte des Basques, Biarritz
The Côte des Basques in Biarritz is an iconic destination, widely celebrated as the historic birthplace of European surfing. Framed by towering cliffs and the picturesque Villa Belza, this expansive stretch of golden sand offers breathtaking panoramic views that extend all the way to the Spanish coastline and the Pyrenees mountains. The raw, untamed beauty of the Atlantic Ocean is on full display here, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere that captivates both surfers and nature lovers.
The dynamic nature of this beach is defined by the tides; at high tide, the sand disappears entirely beneath the crashing waves, completely transforming the landscape. The vibrant surf culture is palpable, with numerous surf schools lining the promenade, inviting beginners and experts alike to ride the legendary waves.
Beyond the surf, the promenade above provides a perfect vantage point for spectacular sunsets, where visitors gather to watch the sky ignite with color as surfers catch their final rides of the day. The elegant yet relaxed Basque vibe makes it a must-visit location on the French Atlantic coast.
Practical info
Family-friendly & For kids
Great for active families with older children interested in surfing lessons. However, it requires vigilance due to the powerful waves and the complete disappearance of the beach at high tide.
The main attraction for kids is the abundance of surf schools offering specialized lessons for beginners. There is no shallow calm water for toddlers to splash safely.
Food & drink
- Pintxos — Enjoy these Basque tapas at the bars in the nearby Halles de Biarritz.
- Chipirones — Local baby squid, often served a la plancha at the restaurants overlooking the beach.
- Gâteau Basque — Traditional almond or black cherry cake available in local bakeries up the cliff.
Facilities
- Surf schools
- Board rentals
- Showers
- Toilets
- Lifeguard (summer)
- Promenade cafes
Events nearby
- Queen Classic Surf Festival annually mid-September · annual
A free inclusive longboard surf festival held directly on the Côte des Basques beach, gathering top female surfers for competitions, conferences, art installations and performances. Recent editions ran in mid-September (12-14 September 2025). Source - Rat's Cup Festival 2026-09-04 to 2026-09-06 · annual
A three-day event on the Côte des Basques beach combining high-level surf competitions, skateboard demonstrations and live concerts, running from morning into the night. Source - Biarritz Pays Basque Maider Arosteguy annually around Easter (late April) · annual
Created in 1984, Europe's oldest surf competition marks the official opening of the French surf season, held in Biarritz (on the Grande Plage) around the Easter weekend with around 250 surfers across all categories. Source - Le Temps d'Aimer la Danse 2026-09-11 to 2026-09-20 · annual
An international dance festival in Biarritz, created in 1990 and held each September, featuring dozens of classical, contemporary and traditional Basque dance performances by leading companies. Source
Tips
- Always check the tide tables before visiting; the beach vanishes at high tide.
- Use the free local shuttle buses to avoid parking frustrations.
- Book surf lessons well in advance during peak summer weeks.
- Watch the sunset from the retaining wall at the top of the cliff for spectacular views.
FAQ
Is it dangerous when the tide comes in?
Can beginners surf here?
Are there places to eat directly on the sand?
Can I bring my dog to the beach?
Places nearby
- Anglet 4 km
- Bidart 5 km
- Bayonne 8 km
- Boucau 9 km
- Saint-Pierre-d'Irube 9 km
- Tarnos 11 km
- Mouguerre 12 km
- Saint-Jean-de-Luz 12 km
- Ustaritz 12 km
- Ciboure 13 km