The most beautiful beaches in the Basque Country

35 km of coastline, barely ... Small in size but of great beauty, that's how we imagine this land of character ! And that's what you find when you land on this Labourd territory. Wild of course, sometimes steep…, but it is a generous and authentic country ! As dual as its inhabitants, its coast can be soft and bucolic, in places.

White sand beaches , rocks and pebbles , wild or disciplined, there is something for everyone. Whether you are an athlete, a surfer , with your family or with your partner , the Basque coast will charm you… No official classification, we start from Biarritz towards the South to Hendaye.

Golden Sands beach

Just above Biarritz, near Anglet , you will find many beaches . If we only have to name one, it will be Sables d'Or beach . At the edge of the city center , secure and fully equipped , it is a family beach with a friendly atmosphere . On site, you will have all the shops and restaurants available , but also a beach volleyball court , surf schools and rental of all kinds of equipment : buoys , paddles, canoes and canoes , sea fishing ...

For a romantic stroll , another beach will surely please you: La Petite Chambre d'Amour beach !

• In the town of Anglet, an exceptional natural site awaits you: the Pignada forest . For an unusual ride, we suggest you travel it in giant electric scooters !

Since you are right next door, it's impossible not to stop in this magnificent city of Bayonne ! To discover on a guided tour or just for a walk , in a family , festive or romantic version , without forgetting the essentials: its museums , its local crafts ...

The big beach of Biarritz

It is a must-see beach in the Basque Country: the Grande Plage de Biarritz ! More popular, it is located between the Casino, the Hotel du Palais and the Villa Belza . It is also a renowned surf spot , where many competitions are held.

For a more authentic setting , choose the Port Vieux beach in Biarritz . And for the more athletic , it will be the Côte des Basques beach .

Fancy an extended stay in the area? The seaside resort of Biarritz welcomes you, with its aquarium , its Cité de l'Océan , and its lively evenings according to your desires . To take care of yourself in a different way, you can also have your feet eaten by small fish !

Photo: La Grande Plage in Biarritz Source: Fred Romero CC BY 2.0

Ibarritz beach

In Bidart , we change atmosphere. Here, the setting is picturesque and the attendance more local. You will appreciate its natural environment and the spectacle of surfers , in complete tranquility. For families , swimming is supervised . On site, schools are at your disposal for an initiation or an improvement . Surf'Set 64 rents you paddles or electric skateboards.

Are you looking for a little piece of nature? The beach of Erretegia , enclosed between the cliffs , is even wilder .

Departing from Bidart, a family hike allows you to discover the Basque coast beautifully: the coastal path . And for an unusual activity , we suggest you discover the Cesta Punta , a Basque pelota game .

Do the children need to let off steam? It's at Bid'a Parc that it happens ...

Photo: Ilbarritz beach in Bidart source: OT de Bidart

The beach of the Port of Guéthary

Nestled in a pretty cove , lies the beach of Port de Guéthary . Very small, she has an intimate side. Its setting is both wild and village . It is an atypical beach , which does not lack charm.

Photo: Guethary port beach, source: Guétary Tourist Office

Cénitz beach

Sand and pebble beach, Cénitz beach will satisfy all tastes. Its wild side will appeal to nature lovers , but it is less suitable for families. Even if swimming is supervised, the rocks make it dangerous. If you want peace and quiet , it is for you because it is only accessible after a good walk .

Nearby, the Parlementia beach is a very famous surf spot . To find out more, follow our blogger, in surfer's paradise .

Photo: Guethary Beach

The big beach of Saint-Jean-de-Luz

The Grande Plage at Saint-Jean-de-Luz is typical of seaside resort beaches. Surf schools , stand-up rentals , paddles , etc. Comfort, activities, equipment , everything is there to make families happy.

In Saint-Jean-de-Luz , you will also find the Maison Louis XIV on the history of the city and the Maison de l'Infante , the Urtubie castle , a botanical garden , and for children , the Luzi park and the Trampoline park .

Socoa beach

In Ciboure , near the fort , Socoa beach is very popular with families for its quiet and supervised swimming . On site: stand up, paddle, Hawaiian canoe, wave ski… , jet ski , but also sailing courses , fishing …

Ciboure has a beautiful heritage: its port , its fort and its Villa Leïhorra , a magnificent “art deco” villa , private but which can be visited! ;

For an original gift or to treat yourself, come to Egiategia : a wine made under water ...

Nearby, don't miss the Abbadia Observatory Castle . To tempt you a little more, here is our report on this incredible castle .

Photo: Socoa Beach

The big beach of Hendaye

We finish our tour of the beaches in Hendaye . Its Grande Plage is the last in France on the Atlantic coast . Several kilometers of fine sand stretch as far as the eye can see . You will not lack space to put your towel! A multitude of activities are available on the beach and surroundings: jet skiing , fishing and boat trips , sailing , surfing , diving , ...

Following it, the beach of Deux Jumeaux , bears the name of its two rocks fallen from the cliff. The view is well worth this long walk with your feet in the water ...

Do you want to discover Hendaye differently? Between mountain and beach , hiking and idleness , here is our report . If you are a good walker, a hike in the area is worth a little detour on the Spanish side : the Jaizkibel climbs up and the ascent is tough, but the panorama is breathtaking!

Photo: Hendaye beach, source: Gergely Csatari CC BY SA 2.0

We hope you enjoyed this fan-toe getaway . Like the tastes and the colors, that cannot be judged… This list is not exhaustive and the beaches are classified according to their geographical situation and not their beauty !

If you are looking for activities to do with children, here is our report on family activities in the Basque Country .

Did you like our article? Find more on our Blog .

Follow us on the Guide du Pays Basque Facebook page and on Instagram @guidedupaysbasque

Article written by Stéphanie Tempier for the Guide du Pays Basque.

Back to "Rest and relaxation"