Biarritz: surfing, history and spots for all levels
Do you dream of surfing the legendary waves of Biarritz, but find yourself spoilt for choice? Surfing in Biarritz isn’t just an activity: it’s an immersion in the cradle of European surfing, where every spot tells its own story. Discover the best spots for all levels, from the Côte des Basques to the demanding waves of Miramar, the locals’ secrets for taming the tides and why autumn hides legendary waves.
Ready to write your own saga, have a drink at Les 100 Marches after a session, or learn from the advice of certified surf schools? Your board is waiting for you, and so is the perfect wave.
Biarritz, the cradle of European surfing where it all began
A story of waves and legends
What turned a small Basque town into Europe’s surfing capital? It all began in 1956, when Californian screenwriter Peter Viertel spotted the waves on the Côte des Basques while filming “Le Soleil se lève aussi” (The Sun Also Rises). Intrigued, he had a surfboard delivered from the United States. Despite an initial setback (his board slipped and broke on the rocks), the Biarrote Georges Hennebutte, nicknamed “Géo Trouvetout”, repaired the equipment. In 1957, Viertel returned with three boards, initiating Georges, Jacky Rott and Joël de Rosnay, the future “Tontons Surfeurs”. These pioneers instilled a passion that was to become a culture. Did you know that Joël de Rosnay, now in his eighties, still surfs daily, proving that surfing in Biarritz crosses generations?
More than a sport, a Biarritz state of mind
Surfing in Biarritz isn’t just a pastime: it’s a way of life. You’ll come across surfers in wetsuits dragging their boards through the streets, cafés where ocean anecdotes are exchanged, and surf shops that smell of salt. On the Côte des Basques, the cradle of European surfing, the spirit of the 1950s lives on. The Waïkiki Surf-Club, founded in 1959, and the Maison du Surf perpetuate this history with exhibitions. Biarritz remains a place where surfing embodies freedom and authenticity, a jewel of surfing in France that attracts novices and purists alike. The Surfrider Foundation, born of the ideals of surfers in the 1970s, reminds us that protecting the waves is an integral part of local culture.
Which surf spot to choose in Biarritz? The complete guide
The Basque Coast: a paradise for beginners
Want to learn to surf in an idyllic setting? The Côte des Basques is your destination. Here, long, gentle waves on a sandy bottom allow you to progress without stress. You’ll enjoy postcard-perfect views of the mountains and Villa Belza. But be warned: this spot only operates at low tide, between 3 hours before and after low tide.
You won’t want to miss the many surf schools on site. They offer lessons and equipment hire, often in English and French. For more details on this Côte des Basques spot, don’t hesitate to consult this detailed guide. It’s also one of the best beginner spots in France.
La Grande Plage: the vibrant heart of surfing in the city
If you’re looking for adrenalin in the heart of Biarritz, head for the Grande Plage. Its powerful waves attract intermediates and experts alike. The spot, framed by the Hôtel du Palais and rocks, offers perfect rolling waves at mid-tide. In summer, the promenade becomes a theater: spectators applaud the acrobatic figures.
Beware, the atmosphere is electric. In high season, the spot is packed with experienced locals. To avoid the crowds, opt for early morning or late afternoon sessions. The sunset over the Pyrenees is worth it, isn’t it?
Marbella and La Milady: for more experienced surfers
Looking for challenging waves? Marbella, south of Biarritz, is a powerful beach break. Fewer tourists, but more technical. The fast, hollow waves reward experienced surfers. La Milady, more family-friendly, offers a versatile mid-tide spot, ideal for varying training sessions.
Surfing calendar - Biarritz
3 colors: Great / Good / No.
Biarritz: variable conditions depending on swell and wind. Côtes des Basques ideal for beginners; spots at Marbella, Grande Plage, Parlementia or Guéthary for more advanced levels.
When can you surf in Biarritz?
Biarritz offers waves all year round, but conditions vary greatly according to the season. Choosing the right time depends on your level and what you’re looking for: gentle learning, regular sessions or thrills.
Spring (March to May) – The perfect warm-up
The first westerly swells return after winter, and the beaches become a little emptier. The waves are cleaner, the winds often offshore in the morning and the water temperature rises to around 15°C. It’s a perfect time to make progress without the summer crowds.
Summer (June to September) – Small waves and surf camp atmosphere
Summer is the most accessible season for beginners. Waves are milder, temperatures oscillate between 18°C and 22°C and surf schools are in full swing. The downside: lots of people in the water, especially in July and August. To avoid the crowds, opt for early morning or sunset sessions.
Autumn (October to November) – The best of Biarritz
It’s a dream season for intermediate and advanced surfers. The Atlantic swells are back, powerful, regular and well-directed, often accompanied by stable weather conditions. The water remains warm until mid-November (18°C), and the spots take on a more local atmosphere.
Winter (December to February) – For experienced surfers only
Basque winter is the season of big swells. Waves can exceed 2-3 m, sometimes more on reef breaks like Miramar. The water drops to 12-13°C and storms are frequent, but calm sessions between two lows can be magical. A good level of proficiency and a 4/3 or 5/4 mm wetsuit are essential.
Learn to surf in Biarritz: how to choose the right school?
What really makes the difference
Want to start surfing in Biarritz? Not all surf schools are created equal. State-certified instructors ensure safe learning. Without them, you risk wasting time… or acquiring bad habits.
Groups are limited to 8 students per instructor, guaranteeing personalized attention. With larger groups, you could find yourself alone in the waves!
Tides influence wave quality. A good school adapts its lessons to the best conditions. The right equipment (foam board, wetsuit) is essential for your safety and comfort.
- State-certified instructors: professionalism and safety guaranteed.
- Small groups: Maximum 8 students for personalized attention.
- Tide adaptation: Courses planned according to weather conditions.
- Suitable equipment: Foam board and quality wetsuits supplied.
In Biarritz, the cradle of European surfing since 1957, when it was first introduced by the pioneers, every detail counts to ensure you learn with complete peace of mind.
From introductory to advanced courses
Whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate, Biarritz’s schools offer a range of adapted formulas. Group lessons (1h30 to 2h) are ideal for beginners, with groups of 6 to 8 people. To accelerate, private lessons (100€/h on average) offer targeted follow-up.
Training courses (3 to 5 days) are ideal for immersion. Intensive courses with 2 sessions a day help you surf green waves. Children (aged 5-9) can enjoy a playful “wave garden”. The “Free Ride” formula combines lessons and equipment rental for the day.
Times depend on the tide: surfing 2 to 4 hours before/after low tide is ideal. At Côte des Basques, the essential spot for regular waves, you’re bound to find what you’re looking for.
Our surfcamps recommendations
What else is there to do in Biarritz?
Biarritz has a thousand things to offer if there are no waves. Take a walk to the Rocher de la Vierge for a breathtaking view of the ocean. Climb up to the Biarritz lighthouse for a 360° panorama of the Basque coast.
Stroll through the elegant streets of the city center, between chic boutiques and lively cafés. For a moment of chill, head for the Jardins publics or a stroll along the seafront to the Atalaye plateau.
The Halles market is a must for sampling Basque specialties. Looking for a bit of culture? TheAquarium or the Cité de l’Océan are perfect. And in the evening, enjoy a tapas aperitif on the terrace or an intimate concert in a local bar. In Biarritz, every moment is a good excuse to enjoy life.
All guided activities in Biarritz
Around Biarritz: other must-see spots in the Basque Country
Biarritz lies at the center of a coastline with one spot after another, from the north of Anglet to the Spanish border. In less than an hour, you can go from a powerful right to a gentle beach break. Here are the best spots to explore around the town.
Anglet – Basque power just around the corner
Just five minutes to the north, Anglet boasts 11 consecutive surf beaches, from the spot at La Barre to Les Cavaliers.
The waves here are more powerful and regular than those at Biarritz, especially when the westerly swell gets in. Intermediate and advanced surfers particularly appreciate Les Cavaliers, Les Sables d’Or and La Madrague.
Hendaye – the place to be for beginners
Just south of the Basque country, on the Spanish border, Hendaye is a huge bay protected from heavy swells.
It’s the perfect spot for beginners or advanced surfers, even when other beaches are impassable. The waves here are long, regular and not too powerful, ideal for learning to stand up or working on your style. The beach is vast, the atmosphere relaxed and family-friendly, with numerous surf schools all along the promenade.
Guéthary – the mythical loader wave
Twenty minutes south of Biarritz, Guéthary is a monument to Basque surfing. Here, the surf is deep and powerful: Avalanche and Parlementia attract experienced surfers as soon as the big winter swells set in. Even without going in the water, the view from the waterfront is worth the detour: you’ll see some of Europe’s best surfers taking on these walls of water.
Other surfing destinations in France
Preparing your surf travel to Biarritz
Is Biarritz suitable for beginner surfers?
Yes, that’s right. Biarritz has a number of renowned surf schools, notably around the Côte des Basques, an ideal spot for beginners thanks to its gentle waves at low tide. Local instructors know the conditions perfectly well and adapt their lessons to suit the level of surfers. The beach at Marbella, a little more challenging, is also accessible to intermediate surfers. In short, it’s an excellent destination for learning to surf in a safe and friendly environment.
When is the best time to visit Biarritz?
Can you enjoy Biarritz without a car?
Yes, it’s even recommended in high season. Biarritz is a compact city, with the majority of spots and activities accessible on foot, by bike or via the free shuttles in summer. The airport and train station are nearby, and you can even reach neighboring towns (Bayonne, Anglet, Saint-Jean-de-Luz) easily by public transport. To explore more remote areas (such as Guéthary or the Basque mountains), a car may be useful, but it’s not essential for a surf and chill holiday.
What to do in Biarritz when it rains?
Where to stay in Biarritz to make the most of your stay?
The Côte des Basques district is perfect if you want to be just a stone’s throw from the surf spots, with a magical view in the morning. For a more urban and lively atmosphere, the city center (around Les Halles) is ideal, with restaurants, bars and stores close by. If you’re looking for more peace and quiet, the heights of Biarritz or residential areas such as Saint-Charles or Milady offer a peaceful setting while remaining close to the beaches. There’s a choice of hotels, surfhouses, apartments and campsites to suit your budget and mood.