Where to surf in Biarritz when the waves are too big

After a generally flat summer, surfers were eagerly awaiting September and the “Indian summer” to enjoy great conditions. September and October usually offer the best swell and wind conditions for fantastic sessions in the Southwest—with the added bonus of still-warm water and (slightly) fewer crowds in the lineup. For now, however, a series of storms is bringing large, wind-swept swells. So, while hoping for that famous October Indian summer, where can you surf if you’re on vacation in Biarritz during a storm? Below, you’ll find some tips on where to surf when the waves at Biarritz’s usual spots are too big or too windy.

FALLBACK SPOTS ON THE BASQUE COAST

HENDAYE

During storms, the often powerful swell arrives from the west, accompanied by strong winds from the same direction. Because Hendaye Bay faces north, it is less exposed to westerly swells, and the wind (also coming from the west) blows cross-shore, limiting its impact on the waves. The best time to surf there is at low tide (within a three-hour window before and after low tide); the larger the swell, the closer you need to be to the breakwater on the western side of the bay.

SAINTE BARBE (SAINT JEAN DE LUZ)

La vague de Sainte Barbe, située au Nord de la baie de Saint Jean de Luz est une vague assez longue qui possède plusieurs sections. La section du fond, collée à la digue est plus conseillée aux surfeurs expérimentés avec un take off assez creux. La section du milieu offre une vague assez plate, idéale pour le longboard et enfin la reforme plus proche du bord forme un beau triangle mais sans trop d’épaule.

LAFITENIA

Lafitenia is one of the best right-hand point breaks on the Basque coast, making it highly sought after by both local and visiting surfers. When the surf is big and windy, the Lafitenia wave is often a good option at low tide; you can usually find a reasonably clean wave face on the inside section.

The North Coast of Spain

If you don’t mind driving a bit and want to go explore the waves in the Spanish Basque Country, this could be a great option. The coastline faces north, meaning the spots pick up less swell, and the onshore wind found in France becomes sideshore there (which is always better). Now you know that all is not lost, even if the forecast predicts a storm right during your surfing holiday in the Basque Country.

See you soon,

Marty