Last updated on February 13th, 2024 at 06:40 pm
If you plan to surf in Biarritz, you came to the right place. In this surf guide, you will find all the information you need for your next surf trip, including surf seasons, surfer tips, and the best surf spots in Biarritz, France.
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About Surfing in Biarritz, France
Biarritz is a spectacular surf destination with a magical European style. This French town is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world. It offers luxury hotels, amazing nightlife, and, most importantly, fantastic waves.
Biarritz is situated in the Bay of Biscay, on the Southwest Coast of France, only about 35 KM from the Spanish border. Facing the Atlantic Ocean, it receives year-round swells with remarkable consistency. Throughout the years, Biarritz established a pretty developed surf scene and became an attraction for summer beach vacationers, especially among Europeans. Therefore, surfing in Biarritz is a natural choice for those looking to escape life for a week or two.
The surf in Biarritz is outstanding. It offers 5 different surf spots and many more in the surrounding areas. From beach breaks to reef breaks, Biarritz provides all types of waves. So, whether you are a beginner who wants to take surf lessons or a pro surfer after some punchy barrels, you will find your place here. Moreover, Biarritz can handle any swell or wind direction, as each one of its beaches is exposed to the ocean from a different angle. Therefore, when surfing in Biarritz, you guarantee yourself almost 365 days a year of pure pleasure.
Surf Seasons in Biarritz
Fortunately, you can surf Biarritz at any time of year, and you will almost always score great waves. The consistency of this French town is incredible, and as long as there is at least a minimal swell, one of the beaches along the coast will pick it up.
The French winter, between November and April, is the best time for professional surfers to surf Biarritz. During these months, the swell is huge, powerful, and consistent. However, the water is freezing, and the overall conditions can be too challenging.
During the spring, in May and June, the surf conditions become much more appealing. The swell is still consistent but not as massive as in winter. However, keep in mind that the water is still very cold.
If you are a beginner who wants to take his first steps in the surfing world, July and August are the best months for you. During these summer months, the swell is small and perfect for learning. Moreover, the water is much warmer at this time of year. Due to summer vacationers, the beaches are crowded in summer, but as a beginner, it shouldn’t bother you too much.
Finally, the fall, which takes place during September and October, is the best time to surf in Biarritz. The water is still warm after summer, but most summer crowds are gone, and the swell is clean, consistent, and beautiful.
As for the air temperature in Biarritz, it ranges from 13 degrees in winter up to 24 in summer. Accordingly, the water temperature ranges from 12 to 25 degrees.
To clarify, from July to September, you can surf in Biarritz with your shorts only or a vest if you are extra sensitive. From January to March, on the other hand, a thick 4/3 wetsuit is required to keep you warm during these cold months. During the rest of the year, with a 3/2 wetsuit, you will be just fine.
Surf Spots in Biarritz
The Silver Coast of France is abundant with wonderful surf beaches. You can find world-class breaks like Hossegor, Lafitenia, and many others within a reasonable driving distance. However, if you don’t feel like moving too much, you can stay just in the Biarritz area, and you will have more than enough good waves.
So, in detail, these are the best surf spots in Biarritz:
La Grande Plage:
This beach is the pumping heart of Biarritz and definitely the most popular one. Due to its location right in the center of town, it is always crowded, especially during summer. However, this beach offers such fantastic waves that it is a super fun place to surf. The waves here break pretty softly over a sandy bottom mixed with some rocks, and it is protected from the winds. The clean shape of this break makes it a very easy one to ride and suitable for any skill level.
Le Miramar:
You will find this beach about 300 meters north of La Grande Plage. The waves here break next to a huge rock with a hole in the middle. This rock, called “La Roche Percee” (pierced rock in English), contributes significantly to the quality of the waves. By blocking some of the swells, it turns this beach into the perfect solution for big or messy days. Moreover, down the beach, there is another good peak, just in front of the Du Palais Hotel.
La Cote Des Basques:
Here, you will probably get the longest rides in the Biarritz area. This fabulous beach offers a fat and mellow wave, which piles itself slowly and lasts a few hundred meters. Due to this type of break, it is the favorite spot among longboarders. Also, at the southern part of the beach, there is another peak that is steeper and better for short boards.
Marbella:
This beach is situated a bit south of La Cote Des Basques. Since it is very exposed to the swell, it works best on small to average days. On big days, however, it tends to close out too often. Many locals are always in the lineup, so be careful not to drop into other people’s waves.
La Milady:
Can Beginners Surf in Biarritz?
Yes, Biarritz offers a beginner-friendly beach.
Just in front of town, La Grande Plage offers waves suitable for all skill levels, including beginners. Since the waves are mellow, anyone can surf here without danger.
If you are an intermediate or an advanced surfer, you can either surf on this beach or explore the other surf spots in Biarritz to find more challenging waves.
In short, surfers of all skill levels can surf in Biarritz.
Surf Camps in Biarritz
If you are a beginner making his first steps in the surfing world or even an intermediate seeking improvement, you can explore the best surf spots in Biarritz at a surf camp. These are the most recommended ones in town:
1. Biarritz Paradise Surf Camp.
2. Biarritz Surf Training.
3. Surf Hostel Biarritz.
For more details about surf camps in France, click here.
Surf Hotels in Biarritz
When coming on a surf vacation, you want to stay as close as possible to the best surf spots in Biarritz. So, these are some of the most recommended surf hotels in town:
1. Sofitel Biarritz Le Miramar Thalassa– Just a few steps from downtown Biarritz, the Sofitel Biarritz le Miramar overlooks one of the most beautiful beaches of the Basque Coast. As each season has its own sweetness, all 126 rooms and suites have a terrace with a view of the ocean or the architecture of Biarritz. For infinite serenity, you have direct access to the Thalasso.
2. Hôtel du Palais Biarritz, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt– Previously a palace built by Empress Eugénie on Biarritz’s beach, this luxury 5-star hotel has 2 large pools and a spa and fitness center with hammam, hot tub, and massage treatments.
3. Carlina Lodge– Carlina Lodge is a hotel residence located on the Biarritz seafront. It offers rooms with a terrace, views over the sea, and free WiFi access in public areas.
For more surf hotels in Biarritz, check out the best deals on Booking.com.
Biarritz- Travel Information
Language– French, Basque.
Population– about 25,000.
Currency– Euro.
Calling code– +33.
Time zone– GMT +2.
Pros– consistent waves, great nightlife.
Cons– cold water, extremely crowded lineup.
Conclusion- A Few Final Words
To sum up, Biarritz is one of Europe’s best destinations for a surf trip. It offers several great surf spots, incredible consistency, and plenty of fun things to do out of the water, which is not less important. This French beach town offers a wonderful time for surfers, travelers, and anyone who knows how to enjoy life.
We hope you liked this guide to the best surf spots in Biarritz. Have a great surf trip!
