Information
Landmark: Biarritz BeachCity: Biarritz
Country: France
Continent: Europe
Biarritz Beach, Biarritz, France, Europe
Overview
Biarritz Beach stands as the town’s crown jewel, pulling in travelers from across the globe to its golden sand, where some chase waves on bright boards while others stretch out in the sun or wander the rugged coastline.People come for the sweeping ocean views and the lively buzz of the crowd, but the beach also holds a proud place in Europe’s surfing history.Biarritz Beach1’s top draws and standout features, from its golden sand to the crash of Atlantic waves.La Grande Plage, or “The Big Beach,” stretches wide along Biarritz’s coast and draws more visitors than any other spot in town.Right in the heart of town, the beach spreads out in a wide sweep of soft sand along the bay, with clear views of the Biarritz Lighthouse and the Rock of the Virgin shimmering in the sunlight.It’s perfect for stretching out under the sun, taking a swim, or wandering the promenade that traces the shoreline.In summer, the area can feel packed, but its spot in the heart of Biarritz puts you steps from cafés, shops, and restaurants.The beach sits snug beneath cliffs that block the wind, making it ideal for stretching out with a book or watching the steady flow of passersby.Plage de la Côte des Basques, another favorite, holds a special place in the town’s surfing scene.On the town’s western edge, this beach sits beneath towering cliffs where steady waves draw surfers year-round.It feels quieter and more untamed than La Grande Plage, with clear-day views stretching across the coastline to Hendaye Bay.To reach it, you follow a long staircase that snakes down the rock, each step revealing more of the glittering Atlantic below.It’s a great place for surf lovers, with plenty of schools ready to teach everyone from first-timers to seasoned riders catching long, glassy waves.Just a short stroll from the town center, Plage du Miramar waits on the peninsula-quiet, tucked away, and far from the crowds.People come here to skip the crowds at La Grande Plage yet still sink their toes into soft sand and clear water.It’s a spot made for swimming, unwinding, and soaking up the quiet.Framed by cliffs and the sweep of the coastline, Plage du Miramar feels like a quiet retreat from Biarritz’s lively heart, with elegant hotels where you can linger over a glass of wine as the tide rolls in; farther along toward Anglet, you’ll find Plage d’Ilbarritz.Tucked a little farther from the bustle, this beach offers a quiet stretch of sand where you can hear nothing but the crash of the waves.Surfers love it for the rolling swells, yet it’s just as inviting for a slow walk, a golden sunset, or an afternoon stretched out by the water.Rugged cliffs frame the view, with hiking trails winding above, making it a haven for nature lovers.Known as Europe’s surfing capital, Biarritz boasts some of the finest waves on the continent, and this spot is no exception.In Biarritz, the Côte des Basques and Grande Plage rank among the city’s most legendary surf spots, drawing riders from every corner of the globe to chase their long, curling waves.The local surf scene began in the early 1960s, when a few adventurous Americans first brought boards to Europe.Since then, Biarritz has grown into a surfing hotspot, home to the annual Biarritz Surf Festival and a steady stream of competitions.Surf schools line the sandy beaches, ready with boards, wetsuits, and lessons for everyone from first-timers to pros.Along La Grande Plage, the bustling promenade hums with chatter and the scent of grilled Basque seafood drifting from cafés, bars, and restaurants.You can savor fresh seafood, regional dishes, and a cold drink while gazing out at the glittering ocean and watching surfers carve through the waves.In summer, the promenade bursts with life as locals and visitors wander past shops, sample street food, or join lively beach festivals.Along the shore, restaurants serve Basque favorites like tapas, pintxos, tarte basque, and seafood paella-each bite carrying the salt-sweet scent of the sea.Beyond the sand and surf, Biarritz Beach offers plenty more to do, from coastal walks to exploring nearby attractions.You can spend the day kayaking, paddleboarding, or jet skiing in the clear Atlantic, then wander cliffside trails where the sea air feels cool against your skin.Cycle along paths linking Biarritz to Anglet and Bayonne, or sink into a spa’s warm, salt-scented steam at one of the town’s luxury hotels.When evening falls, the sun slips into the Bay of Biscay, and the beaches glow with music, laughter, and the hum of nightlife.Beachfront bars and clubs pour cocktails, pulse with live music, and keep the dance floors busy, drawing crowds after dark.As the sun sinks in Biarritz, it washes the ocean in streaks of gold and fiery orange.In the evenings, crowds drift to the beaches to watch the sun melt into the horizon, a glass of local wine or crisp cider in hand.Biarritz Beach isn’t just for swimming or lounging-it’s woven into the town’s character, offering everything from high-end indulgence to thrilling surf and open-air adventures.You might come to Biarritz Beach to ride a curling wave, stretch out under the warm afternoon sun, or wander its lively promenade, but whatever draws you here, you’ll find it delivers.With its sweeping golden sands, vibrant local traditions, and top-tier comforts, it stands out as one of France’s most captivating beach destinations.
