The best spots in the Basque Country for learning to surf

When you’re just starting out, it’s not easy to know which beaches offer waves that are accessible and suited to your skill level. You don’t want to find yourself surrounded by experienced surfers, risking your life—and the lives of others—in dangerous waters with strong currents. That’s why we’ve listed the best beaches for beginner surfers. Read this article to find out which spots are right for you!

Bidart centre

Bidart’s central beach is a great spot for beginners. It is a beach break—meaning the waves break over a sandy bottom—which is ideal when you are just starting out and want to avoid unnecessary risks. We recommend visiting at low tide (so you can touch the bottom everywhere) and when the swell is no higher than one meter.

Hendaye

Located right near the Spanish border, this beach is perfect for beginners. Its northerly orientation makes it harder for swell to roll in, resulting in smaller waves; furthermore, the flat seabed produces relatively gentle waves, allowing plenty of time for the take-off. The beach is vast (3.5 km), ensuring plenty of personal space, and the sandy bottom makes it an ideal spot for learning to surf.

Cenitz

This surf spot in Guéthary offers something for everyone, with conditions that allow surfers of all levels to enjoy themselves. Beginners should stick to the southern end of the beach. It is a reef break—meaning the waves break over a rocky seabed—so caution is required. Cenitz is surfable only at high tide; this unique characteristic is a major draw for many surfers. We therefore recommend visiting only at high tide and when the swell is no higher than one meter.

Parlementia

Parlementia Beach is also located in Guéthary, a 20-minute drive from Biarritz. This spot is generally suited to more experienced surfers, but when the waves are small, it is perfectly suitable for beginners. However, be careful of the rocks at low tide; the spot is accessible to beginners when the swell does not exceed one meter.

Côte des basques

This Biarrote beach is highly coveted by both beginners and more experienced surfers. In fact, many surf schools are located there in the northern part. Its idyllic setting, its beach break and its surf culture have made it one of the most well-known beaches and renowned by surfers in the region. Find out about the tides before going. It is only necessary to go there at low tide because during high tide the beach disappears and it is difficult for surfers to get out of the water.