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Things to do in Biarritz

• Relax at Port Vieux Beach

  
  

  Port Vieux Beach offers a peaceful escape within Biarritz, tucked into a small cove surrounded by rocky cliffs. The calm, clear water creates a natural swimming area that is ideal for families with young children or visitors looking for a quieter alternative to the larger surf beaches nearby. Despite being located in the heart of town, the beach feels surprisingly secluded due to its sheltered position and limited wave activity.

  The surrounding cliffs help protect the beach from wind, making it feel warmer and more comfortable throughout the day. Basic amenities such as showers and restrooms are available, and casual dining options and ice cream shops are just a short walk away. The rocky edges of the cove are perfect for light snorkeling, revealing small marine life in shallow areas. It is best to visit during low tide to enjoy more space on the sand. Port Vieux is a pleasant place for swimming, relaxing, or watching the sun reflect on the bay in the late afternoon.

  
  

• Catching Waves: Surf Lessons on Biarritz's Basque Coast

  
  

  Surf lessons in Biarritz offer an ideal way to experience one of France’s most iconic surf spots. Designed for all skill levels, from complete beginners to those looking to refine their technique, the sessions are led by the French Surf School. They provide appropriate boards and wetsuits suited to the season and the participant's ability. Lessons are scheduled according to sea conditions and tides, which helps ensure the most suitable waves for your level.

  Each two-hour lesson begins with a 30-minute introduction focused on warming up, covering safety essentials, and setting individual goals. The remaining 90 minutes are spent in the water under the close supervision of an instructor. Lessons take place along a stretch of coastline between Mylady and the Basque beaches, where the setting includes views of the Atlantic and the distant Pyrenees. The focus remains on both learning and enjoying the process, even through repeated falls, which are part of the experience.

  Group sizes are limited to a maximum of eight participants, allowing instructors to give close guidance and support throughout the session. Participants often highlight the positive energy and personalized coaching that make the lessons both effective and enjoyable. Whether standing up for the first time or fine-tuning technique, the experience offers a rewarding way to connect with the ocean and improve confidence in the surf.

  
  
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• Surf at Grande Plage

  
  

  Grande Plage stands at the center of Biarritz’s surfing culture, offering consistent waves suitable for all skill levels. Surfers from around the world gather here, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere alongside sunseekers and beachgoers. The shoreline is lined with surf schools, making it easy for newcomers to join in and experience the sport firsthand.

  Its prime location within the city adds to its appeal, with scenic views of the Hôtel du Palais and the surrounding coastline. After time in the water, visitors can easily stroll to nearby cafés and restaurants. While the beach is especially busy during summer, the lively setting enhances the experience. For a quieter moment, early mornings offer more space to surf or relax. Even for those who prefer to stay on land, watching skilled surfers at sunset is a memorable part of the visit.

  
  

• Take a food tour through Les Halles Market

  
  

  Les Halles serves as the center of Biarritz’s food culture, especially during the early hours when locals gather to buy fresh ingredients. This covered market is filled with stalls offering seafood from the Bay of Biscay, cheeses from the Pyrenees, and a variety of regional products that reflect the blend of French and Spanish culinary traditions unique to the Basque Country.

  Strolling through the market engages all your senses. Bright displays of fruit and vegetables, the scent of fresh bread, and the sounds of vendors promoting their goods create a lively atmosphere. Inside, small bars serve pintxos made with local ingredients such as Bayonne ham, sheep’s cheese, peppers, and seafood on slices of bread. The market is also a good place to find regional specialties like Espelette pepper, Basque cake, and wines to take home. Visiting before 11 in the morning offers the freshest selection and a chance to observe daily life in Biarritz at its most authentic.

  
  

• Explore the Biarritz Aquarium

  
  

  The Biarritz Aquarium, officially known as the Musée de la Mer, is located right along the rocky coastline and blends its original 1930s structure with modern updates. Unlike many aquariums, this one focuses specifically on marine life from the Bay of Biscay and the Atlantic Ocean, offering a closer look at the ecosystems directly surrounding Biarritz. The space is thoughtfully curated to highlight both local maritime history and marine biodiversity, with exhibits on Basque whaling and fishing traditions set alongside tanks filled with colorful fish.

  Among the main attractions are the seal feeding sessions and the interactive touch pools where visitors can gently explore sea urchins and starfish. A large central tank houses several species of sharks, creating a striking visual centerpiece. While not vast in size, the aquarium offers enough to fill two to three hours of exploration, making it an ideal indoor activity during cooler weather or a beach break. The upstairs café adds to the experience with a terrace that overlooks the ocean, providing a quiet spot to enjoy coffee with a view.

  
  

• Visit the Cité de l'Océan Museum

  
  

  The Cité de l'Océan is a contemporary, interactive museum designed to engage visitors with the science of the sea and the culture of surfing. Unlike Biarritz’s traditional aquarium, this museum offers high-tech exhibits housed within an architecturally striking building inspired by the shape of a wave. The experience is immersive and educational, making it appealing to all ages.

  Visitors can explore oceanography and surf culture through activities such as virtual wave surfing, simulated deep-sea dives, and interactive displays about climate change and marine ecosystems. The surfing simulator, where guests lie on a board and balance while waves play on a screen, is a favorite among guests. One notable exhibit traces Biarritz’s surfing legacy, highlighting its origins in the 1950s when American filmmaker Peter Viertel introduced the sport. This museum is an excellent choice for a rainy day or for those seeking an indoor break from the coastal sun, especially in summer when additional outdoor events may be available.

  
  

• Biarritz Food Tour: A Taste of Local Cuisine

  
  

  This three-hour food tour offers an engaging way to explore the flavors and charm of Biarritz. As you walk through the city’s picturesque streets, you will sample a range of local specialties including pintxos, truffle ham, cheeses, grilled sardines, and sweet treats like Basque cake and macarons. With a small group of no more than eight participants, the experience feels intimate and relaxed, making it easy to connect with fellow guests and enjoy the casual pace of the tour.

  The experience blends culinary discovery with local culture. Between tastings, guides share insights into Biarritz’s history and everyday life, leading you through vibrant markets and welcoming cafés. There is even a short pause at the beach, where you can enjoy pastries with a view of the ocean. The tour is thoughtfully designed to accommodate different dietary preferences, including vegetarian options.

  By the end of the tour, most participants leave not only satisfied but also with a deeper appreciation for the city and a list of new places to explore. The guides are known for their warm personalities and sense of humor, and many past visitors have said the tour helped them uncover hidden gems they might have otherwise missed. It serves as both an introduction to Biarritz and a memorable culinary experience.

  
  
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• Coastal E-Bike Adventure: Biarritz & Basque Villages Tour

  
  

  Exploring the Basque coastline on an electric bike is a scenic and relaxed way to experience Biarritz and nearby villages. This 4-hour tour starts from either Guéthary or Bidart and follows a well-maintained route along the coast, offering striking ocean views throughout. The electric bikes make the ride accessible for all fitness levels, and a short safety briefing ensures that even beginners feel comfortable on the path.

  The experience is enriched by a local guide who shares cultural and historical context along the way. Stops are made at panoramic viewpoints where you can take in the landscape and photograph the cliffs, coves, and coastal architecture. One of the highlights is the lighthouse overlook, which offers a sweeping view of the rugged shoreline and open sea.

  With a group size limited to eight people, the ride remains personal and easygoing. The tour suits individuals, couples, and families, with special bike setups available for children. The guides maintain a balance between informative commentary and quiet moments for enjoying the scenery. By the end of the tour, you will have gained a deeper sense of the Basque coast’s natural beauty and cultural character, all while riding with ease.

  
  
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• Biarritz Culture & Food Tour: Taste the Basque Coast

  
  

  This walking tour offers a deeper understanding of Biarritz beyond its well-known beaches. As you move through the town’s narrow streets, the guide shares stories that trace the transformation of Biarritz from a modest fishing village to a refined destination favored by European royalty. The city’s nickname, often referred to as the queen of resorts and resort of kings, reflects its layered history and enduring charm.

  Along the route, several stops focus on local food traditions. Highlights include a visit to a 300-year-old pastry shop where original recipes are still used, followed by tastings at a chocolatier that offers samples of cocoa pulp in its raw form. The market visit adds variety with both sweet and savory Basque delicacies, accompanied by regional wine or cider, with alternatives available for those who prefer non-alcoholic options.

  The tour maintains a relaxed pace thanks to its small group format, allowing for questions and interaction with the guide. You are introduced to lesser-known spots and local anecdotes that bring Biarritz to life. By the end of the experience, you gain both cultural insight and a selection of trusted dining recommendations for the remainder of your visit.

  
  
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• Visit the Rocher de la Vierge

  
  
  
  
  

  The Rocher de la Vierge is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Biarritz, offering striking views along the Basque coastline. This rocky promontory, crowned with a statue of the Virgin Mary dating back to the 1800s, is connected to the mainland by a metal bridge engineered by Gustave Eiffel. The setting provides a dramatic introduction to the area’s coastal beauty and maritime atmosphere.

  From the outcrop, visitors enjoy sweeping views in all directions. To the south, the rugged shoreline extends toward the Spanish border, while to the north, Biarritz’s beaches and elegant architecture come into full view. The spot is particularly atmospheric in the early morning or at sunset when the light casts a warm glow over the ocean. Admission is free, making it an ideal stop for travelers looking to enjoy one of the city’s most scenic highlights without spending anything.

  
  

• Visit the Historical Lighthouse (Phare de Biarritz)

  
  
  
  
  

  The Biarritz Lighthouse has stood at the northern edge of the city since 1834, rising 73 meters above sea level with commanding views over the Atlantic. Visitors can climb its 248 steps to reach the top, where an expansive panoramic view unfolds. From this height, the entire coastline stretches into view, from the distant pine forests of Les Landes in the north to the Spanish border in the south.

  At the summit, the scenery includes Biarritz’s main beach, grand hotels, and the rugged shoreline that defines the area. The lighthouse is set within a peaceful grassy park, where locals gather for games and picnics. Its location, slightly removed from the town center, means fewer crowds and a quieter experience. The modest entry fee provides access to one of the best viewpoints in the region. Informational panels inside offer a brief look at maritime history, though the main highlight remains the sweeping coastal landscape.

  
  

• Wander through St. Jean de Luz

  
  

  Just a short drive from Biarritz, Saint-Jean-de-Luz offers a more relaxed atmosphere with the charm of a traditional fishing town. The pedestrian streets are lined with Basque-style buildings and filled with small shops selling local linens, espadrilles, and regional goods. Cafés and pintxos bars provide plenty of inviting spots to stop and enjoy the slower pace. The town feels distinctly different from Biarritz, offering a more authentic glimpse into everyday Basque life.

  The calm bay, sheltered by seawalls, is ideal for swimming, especially when the Atlantic waves are high elsewhere. A visit to the Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste reveals a beautifully preserved interior where Louis XIV was married in 1660. The wooden galleries inside add a unique architectural element. For fresh seafood, the port area is the best place to enjoy a leisurely lunch with a view of the boats. A walk along the seafront promenade at sunset completes the experience, offering peaceful views of the coastline.

  
  

Where to stay in Biarritz

Best hotels in Biarritz:

• Hôtel Au Bon Coin (budget hotel)

  
  
  
  
  
  book now on booking.com

  Hôtel Au Bon Coin is a delightful place to stay in Biarritz, located just a short walk from the beach. The rooms are inviting and equipped with modern conveniences like flat-screen TVs and free WiFi, ensuring a comfortable experience. What sets this hotel apart is the genuine hospitality—the staff go out of their way to make sure guests feel welcome and cared for.

  The location is ideal, offering easy access to Biarritz's top attractions while maintaining a peaceful atmosphere on a quiet street. Guests often praise the breakfast, which features a delicious selection of local treats to start the day. With its friendly atmosphere and thoughtfully designed accommodations, Au Bon Coin is an excellent choice for a relaxing seaside escape in this charming Basque destination.

  
  

• Hôtel du Palais Biarritz (luxury hotel)

  
  
  
  
  
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  The Hôtel du Palais Biarritz is a breathtaking beachfront hotel that exudes the elegance of the Belle Époque era. Once an imperial residence, it has been meticulously restored to combine historic grandeur with modern luxury. The spacious and refined rooms offer a sophisticated ambiance, with many providing stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Guests can enjoy both an indoor pool, open year-round, and a seasonal outdoor pool that overlooks the sea.

  Situated right on the Grande Plage, the hotel is within walking distance of Biarritz's shops and main attractions. Dining options include several on-site restaurants serving exquisite French cuisine. With its exceptional service and unique historic charm, the Hôtel du Palais is an ideal choice for a memorable getaway where you can truly indulge in the finer things.

  
  

• Le Garage Biarritz Hôtel (medium range hotel)

  
  
  
  
  
  book now on booking.com

  Le Garage Biarritz Hôtel offers a stylish stay just steps from the beach in Biarritz. With its bold, modern decor and playful design details, the hotel has a fresh, contemporary atmosphere. The rooms are inviting and well-appointed, featuring cozy beds and handy extras like coffee makers to make your stay even more comfortable.

  The location is fantastic, putting you within easy walking distance of the beach and the lively streets of Biarritz. If you prefer to relax on-site, there's a seasonal outdoor pool to enjoy. The restaurant serves delicious European dishes, making it a great spot for a casual meal. The friendly staff go above and beyond to provide recommendations and ensure you have a memorable stay. This chic, relaxed hotel is a perfect choice for couples or anyone wanting a breezy coastal escape with modern comforts.