Surfing Guide to Biarritz, France

 

• Summary

• When to go

• Surf Camps

• Where to stay

• Getting there

• Safety/Things to know

• Surf spots

   

Summary

The surf in France has built a great reputation for itself over the last few decades. Biarritz is a charming surf town located in the Basque Country region, on the south west part of France. The surfing culture in Biarritz is very present and remains the number one reason why people come down here every summer.

 

Located less than an hour away from Hossegor, another mythical French surf town, Biarritz will charm you with its stunning beaches surrounded by cliffs and rocks.

 

Most surf spots here are beach breaks which can be perfect for all skill levels, as long as waves aren’t too big. On larger swells, rip currents become quite powerful and such conditions should be surfed only by experienced riders.

 

Typically, the summer months offer beautiful weather and friendly waves which attracts a lot of people from all over Europe. Having several surf spots in the area, the crowd is definitely spread a bit, but remains a factor to consider.

 

 

 

When to go

The best time to surf Biarritz, France depends on your skill level and what kind of waves your are looking for. From May to September, Biarritz offers less consistent waves with warmer temperatures and a lively social life in town. This period is good for families and surfers looking to improve their skills.

 

From October to April, waves become much more consistent and also bigger in size which will be suitable for experienced surfers.

 

 

Surf Camps in Biarritz

7-day Surf Camp and French Course in Biarritz, France
US$924 includes:

• 5-day surf sessions
• 20 French course sessions
• Free of use surfboards rental
• Airport and train station transfers
• Free of charge wetsuits rental
• 6 nights’ accommodation
• Daily meals

 

 

Where to stay in Biarritz

Browse our interactive map to find the best accommodation deals in Biarritz!

 

Best surf hotels in Biarritz:

Best value : Hotel Au Bon Coi

High-end : Hotel du Palais Biarritz

 

 

 

Getting there

Biarritz has an international airport located about 10 minutes from the ocean. It is also the main entrance point to Hossegor and San Sebastian, two other popular surf towns in the area.

You may also like to read our full surf guide to San Sebastian, Spain

 

 

Safety/things to know

Although Biarritz is a very safe environment for locals and tourists, the surf can quickly get rough and rippy. Beach breaks usually move a lot of water and around and it can put inexperienced surfers in danger. If you are a beginner, make sure to do your homework before getting in the ocean, either by hiring a surf coach or checking with lifeguards for any rip currents etc.

 

 

Surf spots in Biarritz

Grande Plage

Grande Plage is Biarritz main beach. It is a fairly consistent beach break that tends to get super crowded in the summer months. When conditions are small, it is suitable for all skill levels.

Wave direction : Left and right
Bottom : Sand and rocks
Best tide : Any
Skill level : Any
Optimal swell direction : W
Optimal wind direction : E

 

 

Côte des Basques

This is the beach just south of Grand Plage, on the other side of the headpoint. Being a little more sheltered, waves here are more mellow, especially in summer. Great for longboarders and beginners.

Wave direction : Left and right
Bottom : Sand
Best tide : Low to mid
Skill level : Any
Optimal swell direction : W
Optimal wind direction : E

 

 

Milady

Wave direction : Left and right
Bottom : Sand and rocks
Best tide : Mid
Skill level : Intermediate and Advanced
Optimal swell direction : W
Optimal wind direction : E

 

 

Miramar

Wave direction : Left and right
Bottom : Sand and rocks
Best tide : Mid
Skill level : Any
Optimal swell direction : W
Optimal wind direction : E

 

 

Marbella

Wave direction : Left and right
Bottom : Sand
Best tide : Mid to high
Skill level : Intermediate and Advanced
Optimal swell direction : W
Optimal wind direction : E