A good beach holiday for me is fresh sea air, long walks by the water, good food and places where I can have fun without spending too much money. Biarritz, on the south-west coast of France, combines all these.
This beautiful seaside town in the French Basque Country is famous for its surfing, sandy beaches, coastal views and relaxed atmosphere. Whether you are planning a short weekend break or a longer summer holiday, there are plenty of things to do in Biarritz.
I like the concept of Biarritz because you don’t have to have a lot of money to enjoy it. You can spend the morning walking beside the Atlantic, find a local bakery for lunch and watch the sunset without paying for an expensive activity.
This is the kind of travel inspiration we want to share with you guys at Low Cost Vibes: simple ideas, helpful local tips and how to enjoy a place without spending more than it should cost to be there.
Here are my recommendations for the best beaches, surf spots, local experiences and cheap activities to add to your Biarritz itinerary.
1. Visit Côte des Basques, the Famous Surf Beach
Côte des Basques would be high on my list if I was making my first day in Biarritz.
It is one of the most popular beaches in town and has a long history of association with the introduction of surfing into Europe. It is located below spectacular cliffs and overlooks the Atlantic Ocean towards the Spanish coast.
Imagine arriving early, when the air is still cool and surfers are carrying their boards towards the water. You can hear the waves breaking, watch people preparing for their lessons and watch the coastline slowly come to life.
This is not a place for surfers only. A stroll along the beach or a seat at the top of the cliffs may be sufficient to make the visit worthwhile.
The best thing is that you can enjoy the view without paying a dime.
My budget tip: Take a water bottle, a snack and comfortable shoes. You can enjoy the scenery without spending money on a café or paid activity.
One thing to keep in mind. At high tide, Côte des Basques can be completely covered by the sea, depending on the tide conditions. Please consult tide times before visiting and adhere to local safety guidelines. The official Biarritz tourism website offers up-to-date beach details.
2. Try Biarritz Surfing, Even If You Are a Beginner
One of the main reasons people visit this part of France is Biarritz surfing.
The town is known for its surf culture, and you’ll find people walking around with surfboards under their arms. The Atlantic coast is full of action for the more advanced surfer. Local surf schools offer lessons and equipment for beginners.
I believe that one of the best ways to make a holiday memorable is to try something new. It’s okay if you fall off your board in the first part of a lesson, that’s part of learning. It can be a small victory to stand up for a few seconds.
For those who have never surfed before, try a group lesson. It may be less expensive than a private lesson and provides an opportunity to learn with other novices.
When booking, find out what is included in the price. Some lessons will have a wetsuit and board available, others may have other arrangements. The prices are different from school to school and season to season, so check the current offers before deciding.
Is surfing in Biarritz expensive?
It doesn’t have to be. A lesson is an additional charge, but you can still enjoy the surf without taking one.
Here are a few ways to keep costs down:
- Watch surfers from the beach instead of paying for a lesson every day.
- Compare group lessons with private sessions.
- Ask whether equipment is included in the lesson price.
- Visit outside the busiest holiday periods if your dates are flexible.
- Bring your own towel, water bottle and snacks.
My top tip for anyone wanting to learn to surfing in Biarritz is to select a lesson appropriate to your skill level and the conditions of the day. The sea is strong, so obey your teacher and take local safety precautions.
3. Discover the Best Beaches in Biarritz
One thing that makes Biarritz special is that its beaches are not all the same. Some are near shops and restaurants, others feel more natural or are better known for surfing.
If I was planning a beach day, I would select the beach for what I wanted to do, not just the most popular beach.
These are six beaches you should know about.
Côte des Basques
Best for: Surfing, coastal strolls and sunset watching.
This is the beach to consider if you want to experience the surf culture of Biarritz. The cliffs provide a lovely backdrop and the views across the ocean are lovely for a walk.
Be sure to check the tide, as access to the sand may be lost at high tide.
Grande Plage
Best for: A central beach day and convenient access to cafes and shops.
Located in the heart of Biarritz, Grande Plage is near the town’s shops, restaurants and famous seaside buildings.
I would recommend it to anyone who wants to spend a few hours by the sea and have lunch or a stroll around the town. It’s a full day without much travel.
During the summer months it can be busy, so coming early could mean a quieter morning.
Port Vieux
Best for: A small beach close to the town centre.
Port Vieux is a small cove surrounded by rocks. It is not as crowded as the larger beaches and is a good choice for those who wish to visit another section of the coast.
Always check the swimming conditions before entering the water, even if the sea appears calm.
Miramar
Best for: Sea views and a more relaxed vibe.
Miramar is near the Hôtel du Palais and has a sea view. It may be a good option if you are looking for something different from the busiest part of town.
Marbella
Best for: A more natural environment and advanced surfers.
Marbella is more wild and is a popular spot for surfers. Conditions can be challenging, so it is important to check the sea and follow local advice before swimming or surfing.
Milady
Best for: Families, open space and a beach walk.
Milady is a large beach with amenities, a promenade and children’s play areas. It’s a good choice if you’re travelling with family or want to venture beyond the main beaches.
I would prefer to see two or three of these places on the trip instead of trying to see all the beaches in one day.
4. Explore the Best Biarritz Surf Spots
If you are primarily interested in surfing, it is worth knowing a little about the various beaches before you arrive.
The best Biarritz surf spots will vary with the tide, swell, wind and your experience. One surfer’s ideal beach is not another’s.
Côte des Basques is a well-known surfing spot, but the tide plays a significant role in its use. Marbella is more natural and has more local surfers, while Grande Plage is more central. Under certain circumstances, Milady may be appropriate for various levels.
Here is a simple guide:
| Surf spot | What to know |
|---|---|
| Côte des Basques | Famous surf beach; check tide times carefully. |
| Grande Plage | Central location; surf zones can change with conditions. |
| Marbella | More natural setting, popular with experienced surfers. |
| Milady | Conditions vary with tide and sea state; ask local instructors for advice. |
I would not choose a surf spot based on photographs alone. Waves can look small from the beach but behave differently in the water.
If you are a beginner, ask a qualified instructor where to surf that day. For experienced surfers, please consult the forecast, take local advice and stay out of conditions that are too challenging.
You can also visit the beach without surfing. It’s a part of the experience to watch the waves and see how the local surf community spends their time by the sea.
5. Walk Along the Coast and Visit the Rocher de la Vierge
Not all activities have to be on the beach.
One of the most famous landmarks in Biarritz is the Rocher de la Vierge. A footbridge leads to this rocky outcrop, which provides views across the Atlantic and along the coast.
I would put it in a walking route as it gives you the opportunity to see the scenery without having to pay for an organised tour.
Envision taking the time to stop for photos and watch the waves crash against the rocks below. The views are particularly beautiful on a clear day.
Please wear comfortable shoes, be careful in windy or wet conditions and stick to the marked paths.
For a low cost day, make the visit a walk around the old port and the surrounding streets. There are a number of highlights of the town that can be enjoyed without the use of a car or spending money on attractions.
6. Explore the Old Port and Try Local Food
A beach holiday should not be only about the beach. One of my favourite kinds of travel experience is discovering local food and exploring streets away from the busiest tourist areas.
Port des Pêcheurs is a small harbour and traditional fishing huts in Biarritz that are worth visiting. It provides a different vibe from the main beach and provides an opportunity to explore more of the town.
Basque Country is also famous for its cuisine. Be sure to try local cheeses, seafood and gâteau basque, a traditional cake from the region.
A bakery lunch or picnic may be a good alternative to eating in a restaurant for every meal if you are trying to keep your holiday affordable.
Purchase fresh bread, fruit and some local goodies, then find a spot to enjoy them after a walk along the coast. Save restaurant meals for the dishes you particularly want to try.
With a little planning, it’s easier to enjoy local food without breaking the bank.
7. Enjoy a Free Sunset by the Sea
There are some of the best things to do in Biarritz that are free.
One simple idea is to walk towards the cliffs above Côte des Basques in the late afternoon. From here, you can gaze across the Atlantic and see the sky’s colour changes.
This is a relaxed way to end the day if you’ve been walking around town or taking a surf lesson all day.
I would pack a light jacket, particularly during the cooler summer months, as the sea breeze can be chilly.
It’s not necessary to reserve a table at a restaurant with an ocean view to see the sunset. You can get the same feeling of being near the sea without the added expense by walking along the coast.
Look at the time of sunset before you depart and avoid cliff edges.
8. Find More Things to Do Beyond the Beaches
Although the sea is the main attraction, Biarritz has plenty to offer when you want a break from the sand.
You might go to the Biarritz Lighthouse, walk around the town centre, shop around or enjoy the Les Halles market.
If it’s wet or you’re travelling with kids, the Aquarium is another option. Please verify the current hours and ticket prices before coming.
If I wanted a casual day, I would pick one paid activity and add in some free walking and sightseeing. This keeps the budget in check without limiting the holiday experience.
If you are staying for several days, you can also use Biarritz as a starting point for exploring more of the Basque coast.
If you want more ideas, check out our France holiday destinations guide, which will help you find other destinations to add to your next trip.
9. When Is the Best Time to Visit Biarritz?
The best time to visit is dependent on the type of holiday you are looking for.
Spring: A good option for walking, sightseeing and exploring the town. Weather can change and the sea may still be cold.
Summer: Perfect for a classic beach vacation, bustling streets and lots of action. Popular surf lessons and accommodation, however, may be more costly and booking in advance is advisable.
Autumn: Consider if surfing is a priority. Atlantic swells may increase in consistency, but may also become more difficult for beginners.
Winter: A more peaceful time for coastal strolls, stunning views of the sea and town exploration. It is not as well suited to a holiday centered around warm weather swimming.
For budget-conscious travelers, consider dates during less busy summer weeks. Consider the overall price of the accommodation, transport and activities, not just the price of the accommodation.
Our guide to Best Time to Visit France can help you plan your dates around the type of holiday you want.
10. My Low-Cost Two-Day Biarritz Plan
If I wanted to make the most of a short trip without spending too much, I would keep the plan simple and leave room for a few spontaneous stops.
Day one: Surf, sand and sunset
Morning: Start with breakfast from a bakery, then head to Côte des Basques. If you want to surf, book a lesson in advance and check the tide and local conditions.
Afternoon: Walk towards the town centre and visit Grande Plage. Find an affordable lunch or pick up food for a picnic.
Evening: Head back towards the coastal paths for sunset. Enjoy the views before finding a casual place to eat.
Day two: Local streets and coastal views
Morning: Visit the Rocher de la Vierge and explore the surrounding coastal paths.
Afternoon: Wander around Port des Pêcheurs and look for local food at a market or bakery. If the weather is poor, consider the aquarium or another indoor attraction.
Evening: Choose another beach for a walk, depending on the tide and weather, then enjoy a relaxed final meal.
The idea is to mix free activities with one or two paid experiences. That way, you can enjoy Biarritz without feeling that you need to spend money at every stop.
11. Practical Tips for a Budget-Friendly Biarritz Holiday
A few simple choices can help you save money while making the trip more enjoyable.
- Plan beach visits around the tide. This is especially important at Côte des Basques.
- Compare surf lessons. Check group sizes, lesson length and equipment included before booking.
- Walk when possible. Many central attractions and beaches can be explored on foot.
- Pack snacks and water. Small purchases throughout the day can quickly add up.
- Travel outside peak periods if you can. Compare accommodation and transport costs across several dates.
- Check beach safety information. Follow the flags, lifeguard instructions and local swimming advice.
- Keep your plans flexible. Weather and sea conditions may affect surfing, so have an alternative activity ready.
For more inspiration, explore our guide to Atlantic coast beaches in France. They can help you compare Biarritz with other seaside destinations and plan a longer trip along the French coast.
Is Biarritz Worth Visiting?
The charm of Biarritz for me is the mix of activity and relaxation. You can surf, visit other beaches, taste Basque cuisine and enjoy the beautiful coastal walks without having to book an expensive trip.
It’s a place where a day can be as fun as a well-planned one. A morning by the waves, a cheap lunch and a sunset walk can make a trip special.
If you are thinking about a holiday from the UK, do some research on travel dates, accommodation and activities before you leave. Invest in experiences that are important to you and take advantage of the free stuff the coast has to offer.
Our goal at Low Cost Vibes is to provide travellers with practical suggestions for fun holidays, including how to visit beautiful destinations without breaking the bank.
Biarritz is a beautiful place to begin: take your curiosity, consult the tides and allow yourself time to enjoy the coast at your own pace.
FAQs About Things to Do in Biarritz
Two to three days is a good amount of time to explore Biarritz. A weekend gives you time to visit the main beaches, enjoy local food and walk around the town. If you want to take several surf lessons or explore nearby coastal towns, consider staying for four to five days.
Biarritz can be more expensive during the summer, especially for hotels close to the beach. You can manage your budget by visiting outside peak season, booking accommodation early and choosing local bakeries or markets for some meals. Beach walks and coastal viewpoints are also free to enjoy.
Yes, you can explore much of Biarritz without a car. The town centre, main beaches, shops and restaurants are accessible on foot, although some beaches involve steep paths or steps. Local buses can help you reach places farther away, while regional transport offers options for exploring nearby towns.
Pack swimwear, a quick-drying towel, comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, sun cream and a reusable water bottle. A light waterproof jacket is useful because Atlantic weather can change quickly. If you plan to surf, check whether your school provides a wetsuit and other equipment before packing extra gear.
Yes, Biarritz can be a great destination for teenagers who enjoy outdoor activities. Surf lessons, bodyboarding in suitable conditions, beach walks, shopping and exploring the town provide plenty of variety. Families should choose activities that match their teenagers’ experience and always follow local beach safety advice.
Sources & Further Reading
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