A Captivating Coastal Community Styled as France's 'Surfing Haven' Showcases Remarkable Beaches
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Nestled on the beautiful Bay of Biscay in the French Basque Country, Biarritz is a charming seaside town that offers more than just its renowned surfing scene. From sunbathing and shopping to exploring history and culture, Biarritz is a stroll back in time with its Belle Epoque grandeur and elegant history.
One of the town's most popular attractions is La Grande Plage, a sandy arc that overlooks the Casino Municipal de Biarritz, an art deco building constructed in 1929. This bustling beach is a favourite for sunbathing, swimming, people-watching, and shopping right on the promenade. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
For those seeking a more tranquil swimming experience, Port Vieux, an intimate cove in Biarritz, offers a peaceful haven sheltered from currents and waves.
Biarritz is super walkable, but public transit options also make it easy to get around. The town is packed with surf shops, fresh seafood spots, bars with panoramic views, and iconic markets such as Les Halles. The north side of Côte des Basques has a sandbank suitable for beginners, while the south end offers stronger waves for advanced surfers.
For those looking to learn or improve their surfing skills, Biarritz is home to around 20 surfing schools. Some of the best include Lagoondy Surfcamp, Biarritz Paradise Surf School, Ecole du Surf Français Eric Garry, and Private Surf School. These schools are located around Côte des Basques and La Grande Plage, the primary surfing beaches in Biarritz.
Lagoondy Surfcamp is highly regarded for its patient instructors who help beginners surf quickly and effectively while catering to advanced levels as well. Biarritz Paradise Surf School is known for its thoughtful, bilingual instruction and personalized coaching that can improve surfers of any skill level, including advanced techniques to smooth out riding style.
Ecole du Surf Français Eric Garry offers private lessons with experienced staff, suitable for beginners starting on easy waves and also more advanced surfers. Private Surf School provides lessons for all age groups and skill levels, with options for private lessons on the best beaches in Biarritz, including hotel pick-up and drop-off.
For advanced surfers, schools like Lagoondy and Biarritz Paradise focus on refining technique and style, while private lessons from Eric Garry and Private Surf School allow for tailored improvement. Additionally, tide timing is important to consider when planning lessons, especially at Côte des Basques where low tide offers the best surf conditions for learning and practice.
Biarritz's appeal extends beyond surfing, offering sun-drenched promenades, historical villas, and charming peaks like the Rocher de la Vierge. The town's port history is showcased at the Port des pêcheurs, where fisherfolk still bring in early morning catches.
The town's rich surfing history dates back to the 1950s when Californian filmmakers first rode its waves. Today, Biarritz is often referred to as the "Surfing Capital of France." The Cité de l'Océan et du Surf, an immersive museum, marries science, interactive exhibits, and local oceanography, providing a fascinating insight into the town's surfing culture.
Biarritz offers a range of accommodations for all budgets, with dining and food options catering to various tastes and preferences. The Hôtel du Palais, a palatial home to Napoleon III and Empress Eugenie, is a popular choice for luxury travellers.
L'Impertinent, Cheri Bibi, La Table d'Aurélien Largeau, AHPĒ, Auberge 22, and La Casa Juan Pedro are popular restaurants in Biarritz, often mentioned by locals and travelers alike.
Phare de Biarritz, a lighthouse built in 1834, offers excellent views of the entire region from 240 feet above sea level. The Biarritz Aquarium offers a close-up look at marine life in Biarritz, making it a must-visit for nature lovers.
In summary, Biarritz is more than just a surf town. It's a stroll back in time with its narrow lanes, preserved historical villas, and charming peaks. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced surfer, Biarritz offers a range of surf schools to help you ride its legendary waves. And when you're not surfing, you can enjoy the town's rich history, delicious food, and breathtaking views.
[1] Lagoondy Surfcamp, Biarritz Paradise Surf School, Ecole du Surf Français Eric Garry, Private Surf School
[2] Biarritz Tourism
[3] Surfing Biarritz
- Travel guides often recommend visiting surf schools like Lagoondy Surfcamp, Biarritz Paradise Surf School, Ecole du Surf Français Eric Garry, and Private Surf School for those wanting to learn or improve their surfing skills in Biarritz.
- For those who enjoy sports beyond surfing, Biarritz has a vibrant history and a rich culture, making it ideal for those seeking travel guides that offer a mix of sports and sightseeing experiences.
