The best water activities on the Basque Coast

Renowned for its laid-back atmosphere, sunny weather, sublime stretches of fine sand, and varied landscapes between coves and cliffs, the Basque Coast attracts many vacationers every year. While sunbathing and swimming are popular, water activities on the Basque Coast are perfect fun and sporty alternatives for having fun. Follow the Basque Country guide to the waves!

Surfing, a flagship activity on the Basque coast

If there's one sport you have to try, it's surfing ! This water sport, which arrived in the Basque Country in the 1950s, has become a star among athletes and holidaymakers who take great pleasure in gliding over the waves. Whether you're an amateur or an expert, there's something for everyone in the many surf spots, some more complicated than others depending on your level, such as Bidart, Biarritz, Hendaye or Saint-Jean-de-Luz. Start by practicing flat on the beach before diving into the heart of the waves, juggling balance and support to avoid falling into the salt water. Don't worry, a few hours of practice are enough to stay on your board properly.

Jet skiing, a thrilling sport

Take to the open seas on a jet ski for an unforgettable experience far from the beaches. Alone or with a partner on your machine, you'll have the pleasure of cutting through the waves or jumping them at your own pace. Whether you're a jet skier or a jet skier with arms, this water activity, accessible to all, is a great way to boost your adrenaline, offering intense sensations for speed lovers. Want to try jet skiing on the Basque Coast? Here are some addresses to contact:

• Memphis Jet in Hendaye offers guided jet ski excursions, hourly or daily rentals, as well as flyboarding sessions and towed buoy rides.
• Paral'Aile in Ciboure, the specialist in jet skiing along the beaches of Bidart and Biarritz, also offers flyboarding and towed buoys.
• Jet Sport 64 accompanies you on a jet ski excursion and offers jet ski rental if you have a license, as well as towed buoy outings.
• Landifornia Jet 40&64 takes you on a jet ski ride to discover the Basque Coast from the ocean.

Paral'Aile

Landifornia Jet 40 & 64

Memphis Jet

Diving, an extraordinary experience

Imagine diving into the heart of the Atlantic Ocean to admire the marine inhabitants moving freely! This incredible nautical activity offered on the Basque Coast is a fabulous way to discover the seabed and all its secrets, accompanied by competent and passionate professionals. A wetsuit, fins, an oxygen tank and off you go for an unforgettable moment between stress and emotions with:

• The Hendaye Federal Base offers snorkeling trips (snorkeling excursions), introductory diving, as well as club trips and professional training.
• Mako Pako in Berméo, the shark diving specialist who invites you to swim with fish and sometimes dolphins.

Hendaye Federal Base

Mako Pako

Paddleboarding, a water activity accessible to all on the Basque Coast

Paddleboarding is a derivative of surfing, where you balance on a board (standing or kneeling) to paddle forward. While paddleboarding is practiced on calm waters, it's also popular at the seaside with an added challenge: waves. Alone, in pairs, or with others on a maxi board, rent a paddleboard for a few hours or for the day to glide over the waves. Looking for a break? Don't hesitate to take the plunge!

Water skiing, wakeboarding or longe-côte, the pleasure of having fun in the water

Many other water activities are available, especially in summer, when the sun invites you to swim and dive into the sea.

• Water skiing is a sport of strength and balance where you have to stand on your skis while being towed by a motorboat.
• Wakeboarding is similar to water skiing with a higher level that combines balance and acrobatic tricks.
• Shore walking is a water walk that involves moving forward against the waves with the water reaching halfway up.

All you have to do is choose your favorite water activity, or try them all!

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Glissadour

Wakeboard