Biarritz surf spot

Biarritz

Bay of Biscay, France

BeginnerIntermediate

Historic French surf hub with waves for all and vibrant culture.

Biarritz is the birthplace of European surfing, offering several beach breaks along France's Basque Coast that pick up consistent west and northwest swells from the Bay of Biscay. Grande Plage, the main city-center break, produces walling and occasionally hollow waves over sand at 1-2.5 meters, best at low to mid tide with easterly offshore winds, while Cote des Basques to the south delivers mellower, longer rides favored by longboarders at mid to high tide. Autumn, particularly October, brings the most consistent clean swells, though summer sees warm water and rideable waves paired with extremely heavy crowds of beginners and experienced surfers alike. The sandy bottom shifts constantly, creating new peaks and channels, and strong currents can develop near the rocky outcrops at each end of the beaches. The town's elegant Basque architecture, world-class dining, and vibrant surf culture make it one of Europe's most appealing surf destinations.

Best months to surf Biarritz

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
SeasonShoulderOff Season

Wave consistency

Very Consistent

Things to do nearby

  • Visit the Biarritz Aquarium and explore marine life
  • Stroll along the Rocher de la Vierge for stunning ocean views
  • Explore the town's many museums, including the Asiatica Museum
  • Enjoy the local Basque cuisine in one of the many restaurants
View surf forecast on Surfline

Flights

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Accommodation

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Quick facts

Wave typeWave typeBeach, Point
Crowd levelCrowd4 / 5
Safety levelSafety9 / 10
Price levelCostLuxury