Weekend in Guéthary, a surfer's paradise

Attention all surf enthusiasts ! Imagine waking up to the superb waves of the Basque Country, immediately putting on your wetsuit and diving into the ocean, board under your arm for a little morning surf... A paradise setting, wild beaches as far as the eye can see and incredible surf spots... No, this place is not a dream, but a real reality.

The discovery of Guéthary on the Basque coast

In Guéthary, halfway between Biarritz and Saint-Jean-de-Luz, everything encourages you to slow down and live according to the rhythm of the surf sessions. More than just a sport or a pastime, surfing is an integral part of the local culture and instills a relaxed way of life, respectful of others and the environment. You'll fall in love with the charm and bohemian atmosphere of this village, one of the most picturesque in the region.

The good vibes of the Basque coast

It's the blue hour in Guéthary. The sun rises in rosy mists, letting the sky and sea merge into a single azure blue. The morning freshness perfumes the salty air, and dawn already vibrates to the rhythm of a ballet of contemplative surfers, their gazes turned towards the horizon. The waves vanish in a spectrum of blues, perfectly capturing the natural power of the landscape. Immerse yourself in an enchanting atmosphere where a touch of "la dolce vita" lingers, inseparable from the taste of adventure and adrenaline that surfing provides…

Indeed, with its renowned waves and pleasant climate year-round, Guéthary is a highly sought-after destination for surfing. Locals surf here in all seasons, but autumn and winter are undoubtedly the best times to enjoy excellent conditions with offshore winds and a generous swell generated by large storms. The surf spots in Guéthary are numerous: reef breaks and beach breaks, lefts and rights, waves for all levels of surfers, from beginner to pro, from longboard to shortboard.

Parlementia, the mythical wave of Guéthary

Besides its relaxed lifestyle, this charming village faces the famous Parlementia surf spot. Often compared to the Hawaiian Sunset wave, this legendary wave has been the subject of discussion for decades, fueling a debate among locals: is it in Guéthary or Bidart ? The consensus among the neighborhood is that it begins in Guéthary and ends in Bidart.

At this renowned spot in France for big wave surfing, the impressive Parlementia wave offers a dream playground for thrill- seekers. The perfect shape of this massive wave is due to the rocky seabed. Reserved for very good surfers on days with a strong swell, it's best to be equipped with a gun, a long, tapered board designed for speed, to have any hope of tackling it.

Further south, Avalanche, the wave off the Alcyons beach jetty, also enjoys a good reputation among experienced surfers. A long left, reaching up to 5 meters, breaks with a steady rhythm, power, and speed. The Cenitz spot, next to Saint-Jean-de-Luz, seems the most suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers, with a beautiful, fairly long, and gentler left. Guéthary is full of surf spots, whatever your experience level!

Contemplating the waves and surfers from the Terrace: THE place to be!

Whether you're a surfing enthusiast or simply curious, a thrill-seeker or a photography buff, the "terrace" is a prime spot to contemplate the ocean and admire the spectacle! In the shade of tamarisk trees, this large terrace, built in 1912, overlooks the ocean and offers an exceptional panorama of the Basque coast stretching from Biarritz to Hondarribia, the border town of the Spanish Basque Country. A VIP viewpoint to savor the sight of surfers riding Parlementia or the sunset as it paints the horizon… a must-see during your stay in Guéthary!

Where to Eat in Guéthary?

Stroll around the port

Once renowned for whaling, the small port of Guéthary has an irresistible charm. A haven of tranquility sheltered by its breakwater dating from 1891, the dry dock harbors around twenty pretty, colorful boats used for recreational fishing : hake, squid, lobsters… A small sandy beach completes this picture-perfect scene!

Explore the magnificent coastal path on foot

Stretching 25 km from Bidart to Hendaye, the coastal path passes through Guéthary and offers breathtaking panoramas stretching from the horizon to the Pyrenees, with views of the Basque coast and mountains. A walk is a must on this route punctuated by wild headlands and natural coves. The contrast is striking between the vibrant green hills, dotted with typical Basque houses, the ocean, and vast expanses of unspoiled nature, cliffs, and jagged rocks. A truly photogenic natural setting. The risk of getting lost is minimal when walking along the coast, but if you do, ask a local for directions. Basque hospitality is no myth!

Where to stay in Guéthary?

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