Plage de la Cote des Basques
4.4 / 5 Famous Biarritz surf beach that disappears at high tide in Biarritz, Basque Coast
Photo: Rundvald, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
A long sandy beach beneath tall cliffs on the south side of Biarritz, known for surfing and for its dramatic sunsets. At high tide the sand disappears, so tide times matter here.
Practical info for Plage de la Cote des Basques
| Access | Down stairs from the clifftop, or along the beach from the old port. |
|---|---|
| Car parking | Limited nearby; town car parks are better. |
| Sunbeds & umbrellas | None to speak of. |
| Food & drink | Cafes at the top of the cliff. |
| Good to know | The beach is covered at high tide; check tide times. Lifeguards April to October. |
Last verified: October 2026. Compiled from official tourism pages, visitor guides and recent reports. Prices, fees and rules change by season, so confirm locally before you go.
Planning your visit to Plage de la Cote des Basques
Sand beaches are usually gentle underfoot and easy for swimmers and children, though they can be exposed to wind and waves, so check conditions on the day. Bring a hat and extra water, as shade can be scarce away from facilities.
Access is rated moderate: expect stairs, a short walk or a rough road, and wear proper shoes rather than flip-flops.
The usual season runs June–September. Visiting near the start or end of that window usually means fewer people, but the sea is cooler and some facilities may not be open yet or may have closed for the year.
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View Plage de la Cote des Basques on the map · Compare with all beaches
Best months to visit Plage de la Cote des Basques
The swimming season here runs from June to September. July, August are the warmest and busiest, with the sea around 19 °C, so arrive early for parking and a good spot. June and September are quieter and cooler: good for walking and photos, though some beach bars and lifeguard posts may not be open yet or may already have closed for the year.
Who Plage de la Cote des Basques suits
Sand makes it comfortable for sunbathing, building sandcastles and long walks along the water line. Expect a short walk or uneven ground, so it suits most visitors with sensible footwear. Food and drink close by make it easy to stay for the whole day.
Getting there and nearby
Limited parking nearby; the town car parks are a better option than the roadside. The beach sits at about 43.475, -1.569 on the map, so use the map link above for directions. If you are planning a day around it, the closest other beaches on our list are Biarritz Grande Plage (1 km), Bidart Beach (5 km), Dune du Pilat (127 km).
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Plage de la Cote des Basques?
Plage de la Cote des Basques is best visited June to September. The sea is typically around 19 °C in season. Check the tide table before you go, since the exits vanish on a rising tide. Access is down steps from the cliff or along the beach from the old port.
How do I get to Plage de la Cote des Basques?
Access is rated moderate. Limited parking nearby; the town car parks are a better option than the roadside.
What facilities does Plage de la Cote des Basques have?
Lifeguards in season, surf schools and cafes at the top.
Where is Plage de la Cote des Basques?
Plage de la Cote des Basques is in Biarritz, Basque Coast (approx. coordinates 43.4749, -1.5688).
Is Plage de la Cote des Basques good for children?
Access is rated moderate, so check that it suits young children before you go. Our family guide lists easier options.
What should I bring to Plage de la Cote des Basques?
Facilities: Lifeguards in season, surf schools and cafes at the top. A hat and sun protection are useful. Bring water and snacks if there is no kiosk or restaurant.
Is there parking at Plage de la Cote des Basques?
Limited nearby; town car parks are better. Fees and rules change, so confirm locally.
Are there sunbeds at Plage de la Cote des Basques?
None to speak of. Prices are approximate and change by season.
Beaches near Plage de la Cote des Basques
Biarritz Grande Plage
Biarritz, Basque Coast, France · 4.3 / 5 · 1 km away
Bidart Beach
Bidart, Basque Coast, Nouvelle-Aquitaine · 4.3 / 5 · 5 km away
Dune du Pilat
Arcachon Bay, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France · 4.7 / 5 · 127 km away
La Baule Beach
La Baule-Escoublac, Pays de la Loire · 4.4 / 5 · 428 km away
Plage des Grands Sables
Groix, Brittany · 4.6 / 5 · 485 km away
Plage de Piemanson
Salin-de-Giraud, Camargue · 4.4 / 5 · 516 km awayBrowse all beaches in France or compare every beach.
Scores are editorial ratings from the EuroShores team. Last updated 2026-10-18.