Surfing in Hendaye
Located in the far south-west of France, on the Spanish border, Hendaye is a little corner of paradise for surfers looking for gentle, accessible waves. It’s the safest surf spot in the Basque Country, ideal for beginners, families or those who want to progress at their own pace.
With its long, sandy beach, friendly surf schools and peaceful atmosphere, Hendaye offers a more zen-like alternative to neighboring Biarritz or Saint-Jean-de-Luz. Perfect for a first surf trip or a slow vibes holiday between nature and the ocean.
Surfing in Hendaye - Practical information
Surfing
- Level: Beginner to intermediate
- Wave type: gentle, long, regular
- Bottom type: Sandy
- When to go: May to October
- Best period: June to September
- Average water temperature: 13°C (winter) to 22°C (summer)
- Average ground temperature: 10°C (winter) to 26°C (summer)
- Swell direction: Northwest / West
- Wave orientation: left & right
Before you leave
- Time zone difference: None from France
- Flight time from Paris: 1h20 to Biarritz
- Nearest airport : Biarritz Pays Basque (BIQ)
- Journey time to site: 30 to 40 min by car or train
- Documents required: Identity card or passport
- Vaccines required: None
- Recommended vaccinations : None
On site
- Spoken languages: French, Basque (a few speakers), very current Spanish
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Cost of living: Moderate
- Safety: Very good
- Getting around: On foot, by bike, mini-train, shuttle bus, boat crossing to Spain
Surf spots in Hendaye
Surfcamps in Hendaye
What's there to do in Hendaye apart from surfing?
Hendaye is an invitation to relax. Start with a stroll along the long seafront promenade, facing the famous Deux Jumeaux rocks.
Then take the shuttle to the Spanish town of Fontarrabie (Hondarribia), ideal for sampling tapas and strolling through the cobbled streets. Hiking enthusiasts can climb to the Domaine d’Abbadia, a protected natural site between cliffs and meadows. If you want to relax, head for the family beach or a thalasso treatment.
In summer, the little tourist train takes you effortlessly around the town. And the market on Place de la République is well worth a visit for its local produce. Here, time slows down… and that’s good for you!
Other surfing destinations in France
Preparing your surf travel to Hendaye
Is Hendaye a good place to learn to surf?
In fact, it’s one of the best on the Basque coast! Gentle waves, wide beach, sandy bottom: everything you need to learn in complete safety.
Can you get there without a car?
Yes, Hendaye is accessible by train (TER or TGV) and is easy to visit on foot or by bike. No need for a car once you’re there.
Unless you want to discover the region and go into the hinterland. Much easier to get around than public transport.