Ondarraitz beach

Ondarraitz beach

AccessibleNaturist

Ondarraitz beach, also known as the Grande Plage d'Hendaye, is a spectacular three-kilometer stretch of fine golden sand located at the southwestern tip of France, right on the Spanish border. As the longest beach on the Basque coast, it offers an incredible sense of space. The backdrop is simply stunning, featuring the majestic Pyrenees mountains meeting the Atlantic Ocean and the iconic 'Les Deux Jumeaux' (Twin Rocks) standing in the water at the eastern end of the bay.

The beach is bordered by a beautiful promenade, the Boulevard de la Mer, lined with charming neo-Basque villas that give the area an elegant character. Unlike wilder surf spots further north, Ondarraitz is naturally protected by the shape of the bay. This sheltered position results in gentle, manageable waves, making it an internationally renowned destination for beginner surfers and families seeking a safe seaside environment.

Whether you want to take a sunrise walk with views of Hondarribia across the water, ride your first wave, or relax on the soft sand, this beach is perfect. The unique combination of Basque culture, dramatic coastal landscapes, and family-friendly facilities ensures Ondarraitz remains a beloved destination in Nouvelle-Aquitaine.

Practical info

Beach typesandy
WaterThe water quality is generally excellent, and the seabed slopes very gently, creating a vast area of shallow water. This makes entering the ocean very safe, even though it is the Atlantic.
Getting thereEasily accessible by car, on foot from the town center, or via the scenic coastal path. The terrain is flat along the promenade, making it effortless to reach for everyone.
ParkingThere are large paid parking lots directly along the Boulevard de la Mer and near the marina, just a few steps from the sand.
EntranceAccess to the beach is completely free for everyone.
LifeguardLifeguards are on duty and patrol the swimming zones from mid-June to mid-September.
ShadeThere is no natural shade on the wide sandy beach, but visitors often bring their own umbrellas or beach tents.
Best timeSeptember is ideal for pleasant weather and warm ocean water without the peak summer crowds.
NearbyThe historic town center of Hendaye and the imposing Château d'Abbadia are nearby. You can also take a short boat ride across the bay to visit Hondarribia in Spain.

Family-friendly & For kids

It is extremely family-friendly due to its vast size, which means it never feels overly crowded, and the naturally calm waves. The flat, wide beach provides plenty of space for playing games and building sandcastles.

Kids will love the shallow entry, where they can splash safely for dozens of meters. In the summer, seasonal beach clubs for children operate directly on the sand with games and supervision.

Food & drink

Facilities

Events nearby

Tips

FAQ

Is this beach good for surfing?
Yes, it is highly recommended for beginners and longboarders due to its naturally sheltered position and gentle waves.
Are dogs allowed on the sand?
Generally, dogs are not permitted on the beach during the busy summer season to maintain cleanliness.
Is there a designated naturist area?
Yes, there is an authorized naturist section located at the easternmost end of the beach, near the 'Deux Jumeaux' rocks.
Are there public restrooms and showers?
Yes, public toilets and outdoor showers are available at various points along the Boulevard de la Mer during the season.

Places nearby

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