The Beaches of Bidart
Discover the beaches of Bidart, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the dramatic cliffs of the Basque Coast. From long sandy stretches to small sheltered coves, each beach has its own character and atmosphere.
Bidart has several beautiful beaches, each with its own atmosphere. From the family-friendly Uhabia Baeach to the more intimatecoves along the coast, there is a perfect spot for everyone to enjoy the Atlantic.
Six beaches, six different atmospheres
With nearly 5km of coastline and six beaches, Bidart offers some of the most beautiful coastal scenery in the French Basque Country. Dramatic cliffs, golden sand and the waves of the Atlantic create a landscape where every beach has its own character and atmosphere.
Some beaches are perfect for families, others are well known for surfing, while some remain more wild and untouched. Together, they make Bidart’s coastline one of the places we most love to share with our guests at Hôtel Itsas Mendia.
Centre Beach : a few steps from the hotel
Centre beach is the closest beach to Hôtel Itsas Mendia. A pedestrian path through the cliffs takes you there easily, with beautiful views over the ocean along the way.
This beach is popular with local families and offers a lovely setting for enjoying the Atlantic. At low tide, the seawall and rocks are revealed, while the beach is also a well-known surfing spot. Whether you come for a swim, a walk or simply to admire the scenery, Centre Beach is one of the easiest beaches to discover from the hotel.
Erretegia Beach : a natural gem on the Basque Coast
Close to the centre of Bidart, Erretegia Beach lies at the bottom of a beautiful green valley. This remarkable natural area, between the cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean, is one of the most beautiful spots on the Basque Coast.
Erretegia is also a great place to discover surfing. The beach is home to a surf school, L’école de la Glisse, where beginners can learn in a friendly and professional atmopsphere.
Uhabia Beach : the largest beach in Bidart
Further south, Uhabia Beach is the largest beach in Bidart. It stretches out at the mouth of the Uhabia River, with a wide expanse of sand that makes it particulary easy to access and popular with both visitors and local residents.
Uhabia is also a well-known surfing spot. Its wide beach and lively atmosphere make it a great place to spend time by the ocean, whether you want to swim, relax on the sand or watch the surfers.
Parlementia Beach : a legendary surf spot
Further south, on the border between Bidart and Guéthary, Parlementia Beach is home to one of the most famous surf spots on the Basque Coast. Parlementia is renowned for its powerful waves and is mainly suited to experienced surfers.
At low tide, the rocks also reveal small natural pools. They are lovely place to take a closer look at the marine life or simply enjoy a quieter moment by the ocean.
Ilbarritz Beach : between ocean and heritage
To the north of Bidart, Ilbarritz Beach stretches along the foot of the cliffs. Above the beach, the Château d’Ilbarritz adds a distinctive touch to the landscape and gives this part of the coast its unique character.
The beach is popular with families and has a lively atmosphere, with restaurants and activities nearby. It is also close to the Ilbarritz golf course and training centre, making it an interesting stop for visitors who want to combine the ocean with other activities.
Pavillon Royal Beach : wild and spectacular
More secluded and wild, Pavillon Royal Beach offers a spectacular setting on the Bidart coastline. The beach takes its name from the Château built for Nathalie of Serbia, which overlooks the coast and provides a remakable panorama of the Atlantic Ocean.
With its natural surroundings and open views, Pavillon Royal is particulary appreciated by surfers and bodyboarders. It is a beautiful place to experience the wilder side of the Basque Coast.
Staying in Bidart, close to the beaches
Staying in Bidart means enjoying a preserved coastline while being ideally located between Biarritz and Saint-Jean-de-Luz. From Hôtel Itsas Mendia, several of Bidart’s beaches are easily accessible, making it easy to combine time by the ocean with coastal walks and discovering the Basque landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Beaches of Bidart
How many beaches are there in Bidart?
Bidart has six beaches : Centre Beach, Erretegia Beach, Uhabia Beach, Parlementia Beach, Ilbarritz Beach and Pavillon Royal Beach. Each has its own character, from family-friendly beaches to famous surfing spots and more wild, natural areas.
Which beaches are best for surfing in Bidart?
The best-known surfing beaches in Bidart are Parlementia, Uhabia and Centre Beach. Parlementia is particulary famous for its powerful waves and is mainly suited to experienced surfers. Erretegia Beach also offers surfing lessons for beginners at L’Ecole de la Glisse.
Which beach is closest to Hôtel Itsas Mendia?
Centre Beach is the closest beach to Hôtel Itsas Mendia. It can be reached easily on foot via pedestrian path through the cliffs, with beautiful ocean views along the way.
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