Beaches of Biarritz: The 7 Best Beaches on the Basque Coast

A seaside resort since the 19th century, Biarritz stretches seven beaches along its coastline, each with its own distinct character. From the sheltered coves of Port-Vieux to the rolling waves of Côte des Basques, the Biarritz shoreline appeals to families and surfers alike. BARNES presents these seven beaches to help you find the one that suits your stay.

1) Milady Beach

Milady Beach is a large stretch of sand popular with locals, located at the southern edge of the city heading towards Bidart. It is a family-friendly and supervised beach that is also a favourite among surfers. Milady Beach is recognisable by its two massive rock formations rising from the water and its beautifully landscaped promenade.

2) Port-Vieux Beach

Port-Vieux Beach is a small cove nestled at the foot of a rocky inlet, just steps from the city centre. Sheltered from the wind and swell, it is a favourite among regulars all year round as well as families with children. The view of the Rock of the Virgin from here is stunning.

3) Grande Plage

Formerly known as Plage des Fous and later Plage de l’Impératrice, Grande Plage sits at the heart of the seaside city centre and is the most popular beach in town. Running along a promenade lined with terraces and cafés, Grande Plage spans 450 metres of fine sand. It is a picture-postcard beach, with its striped tents backed by a palace and elegant period buildings.

4) Côte des Basques Beach

Côte des Basques Beach is a legendary spot, as it is the birthplace of surfing in Biarritz and in France as a whole, dating back to 1956. Stretching nearly 1 km, this long sandy beach south of Biarritz enjoys an exceptional setting: to the north rises the majestic Villa Belza, to the south unfolds the Spanish coast, and in the background you can admire the mountains. Note that at tide coefficients above 45, the beach disappears entirely.

5) Miramar Beach

Miramar Beach is a small beach extending from Grande Plage, behind the Hôtel du Palais. An intimate spot frequented by regulars who come to swim and stroll in peace. Surfing and bodyboarding are regulated on this beach.

6) Marbella Beach

Marbella Beach is a beautiful sandy beach that extends south from Côte des Basques. Thanks to its size and wild character, it is particularly popular with surfers and bodyboarders. Marbella Beach is accessible only via stone steps.

7) Port des Pêcheurs Beach

Located between Grande Plage and the aquarium, the small Port des Pêcheurs beach is little known to visitors and a treat for those looking to escape the summer crowds. You will not find much room to lay your towel at high tide, however. The Rocher du Basta, which splits the beach in two, offers a superb view across the entire Biarritz coastline.

Living just steps from these beaches, for a summer or for good, is what BARNES Côte Basque makes possible. Whether you are looking for a holiday rental in Biarritz facing the ocean, a property for sale in Biarritz with views over the coastline or a seasonal rental investment in one of Europe’s most sought-after resorts, our team knows every neighbourhood and every corner of the Biarritz shoreline. Contact our BARNES Biarritz agency to discuss your project.

And if you wish to explore the coastline beyond the city, discover our guide to the most beautiful beaches in the Basque Country to continue your discovery.