
Bay of Biscay, France
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
Wave consistency
Very Consistent
Things to do nearby