La Grande Plage is the main town beach of Biarritz, with golden sand along the Bay of Biscay and a long promenade beside the ocean. It lies next to the old town, so cafes, restaurants, shops and public pools are a short walk away. Stroll the promenade, watch surfers on the waves, and look up at the Belle Époque buildings that frame the sand. Swimmers should stay between the lifeguard flags, since currents along this coast can be strong.
The Belle Époque seafront
The seafront took its shape when Biarritz was a fashionable seaside resort for an international clientele. The Hôtel du Palais, formerly the Villa Eugénie, overlooks the beach and is often seen as a symbol of the French art of living.
The Villa Belza sits on its rock nearby, and the Russian Orthodox Church of Alexander Nevsky is a reminder of the guests who came from abroad. Along the promenade, the Casino has a facade from the 1920s that stands out from the rest of the front.
Walking the sand and the promenade
The promenade runs for a long stretch beside the ocean, and it is a good place to walk slowly and watch the water. Surfing is kept to certain sections, while the surf-free bathing zones suit swimmers and people who want a calm dip.
In summer the sand fills quickly. You can hire a sun lounger or the striped tents, try the watersports on offer, or simply sit in the sun. Umbrella hire is listed at about €15 per day.
Free toilet facilities are available on the beach, which makes a full day here easier to plan.
Nearby on the coast
At noon, the Halles market fills with conversation, the smell of coffee, fresh fish and products from the Basque Country. It is a short walk away and makes a good stop before or after the beach.
Côte des Basques, south of the city, is where surfers gather, and it hosts one of the world's biggest surf festivals every July. The beaches here are best for learning to surf.
At night, the coastline is artistically lit from the Pointe Saint-Martin to the Port Vieux, all year round. The lighthouse, built in 1834, offers a wide view of the Atlantic from its esplanade.
Häufige Fragen
Is there parking near La Grande Plage?
Some spaces are free for up to an hour. Paid parking is available in Indigo managed car parks.
Are there toilets on the beach?
Yes, free toilet facilities are available.
Is the sea good for swimming?
Some people find the water too cold for swimming. Keep between the lifeguard flags and follow their signs, as currents along the coast can be strong.
Can you rent umbrellas and sun loungers?
Umbrella hire is listed at about €15 per day, and sun loungers are available to hire on the beach.
