The 12 best outdoor activities to do in Biarritz

Passing through this must-see town in the Netherlands, you wonder what are the best outdoor activities to do in Biarritz? Here's our selection!

Chic and prestigious for one, paradise for outdoor activities for others, Biarritz’s reputation is no longer to be done. Located on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean and only a few kilometers from the Pyrenees Mountain Range, it is not surprising that it attracts more and more lovers of nature. Its constant waves that run all year round make it a high place of surfing, but the city is also conducive to the practice of many other outdoor sports. Cycling, sea kayaking, scuba diving, ULM or yoga, discover the 12 best outdoor activities to do in Biarritz during your next stay on the Basque Coast. Whether you're travelling with family, friends, alone or two, you're not going to be bored!

1. Surf and bodyboard

This selection of the best outdoor activities to be done in Biarritz could not start by surfing, the city's iconic sport. Biarritz is no other than the cradle and the historical capital of European surfing. Considered one of the best surf spots in Europe, Biarritz attracts every year, and in all seasons, surfers from all over the world. Since the democratization of surfing in Biarritz, thanks to “tones surfers”, things have evolved well. Today we count almost 20 surf schools, nothing but in the city, and many planks!

So, great beginner or surfer, go on the waves of the Basque Coast, the Grande Plage, the Milady or Marbella! If you are more comfortable lying rather than standing on the board, you can opt for a bodyboard session, a variant of surfing.

2. Bicycle or mountain bike (electric)

What if you left the car to discover Biarritz and its bicycle beaches? Have a fun and convivial moment in total freedom or guided tour. The city offers many bike facilities, and several classic or electric bike rentals are installed. Electrical assistance can be very useful to browse Biarritz and its denivels!

Good to know. : la Bikes goes by the city of Biarritz. Take the opportunity to make a little bit of this bike route that connects Brittany to the Basque Coast along the Atlantic coastline. You will then have the opportunity to visit the cities and villages , like Bayonne, Capbreton , Anglet, Saint-Jean de Luz or Hendaye, last stage of the course.

3. Hiking

Looking for a free outdoor activity in Biarritz? Then walk on the coastline! This superb seafront hike extends over about 10 kilometers. Easy and pleasant, this walk starts and ends in the parking lot of the beach of the Chambre d’Amour in Anglet. Among the points of interest on this route are:

• Cave of the Chambre d’Amour
• Phare de Biarritz
• Grande Plage Miramar
• Fishing Port
• Plateau de l’Atalaye and the Rocher de la Vierge
• Old Port Beach
• Côte des Basques beach

Otherwise, to take height and a bowl of fresh air, the famous trail of The Rhune , in the Pyrenees chain, is only 35 minutes' drive from Biarritz.

4. Sea Kayak

Want to take the sea and explore from the ocean? Among the outdoor activities to be done in Biarritz, the sea kayak is the ideal boat to go hiking along the Basque Coast. And good news! Being easy to use, no level is required! Thus, navigate from ports to beaches, passing through bays and cliffs on a single or biplace kayak. Do not forget to open wide eyes to observe wildlife!

Sea kayaks are usually rented during the day or half day.

5. ULM

In addition to the great classics, there are activities that promote to discover Biarritz from a unique perspective! Thus, discover the Basque Country as you have never seen by realizing your air baptism or a 30-minute flight to ULM.

The Basque aeroclub, located in Biarritz, offers you a unique experience: flying to enjoy a 360° view of the surrounding landscapes. Between the coast, the forest and the surrounding hills, the wonder is guaranteed!

6. Jet-ski

If for you outdoor activity rhyme with adrenaline, the jet-ski hike should please you! Taste the joys of slipping and walk the coastline, alone or several, in an original way.

Do you have a coastal licence? It will then be possible to rent a jet-ski to move freely. This is your first time? No panic, professional teams are there to welcome you and coach you in the best conditions throughout the hike. For your safety, a number of rules to respect you will be indicated before you get to the water and drive your jet-ski. This activity is accessible as early as 16 years.

7. Stand-up paddle

Let’s continue our tour of the best outdoor activities to do in Biarritz with stand-up paddle. Indeed, this activity, especially practiced as a sport, is a must in the Basque Country! Standing on your board and using a paddle, just let yourself slide on the water and enjoy your ride. You are not at your test and have a good balance? This is the opportunity to introduce you to surfing by having fun in the small waves.

Ludique, accessible tou·te·s and friendly, the stand-up paddle will undoubtedly seduce you. However be careful, you are not immune to a fall... and a good laugh!

8. Helicopter

Embarking on a helicopter for a discovery flight or a baptism of the air is the assurance of enjoying a breathtaking panorama. Take the opportunity to admire the diversity of the landscapes of the Pyrenees-Atlantiques from the sky.

The program? The wild waves of the Atlantic Ocean, the beaches of the Basque Coast and the Landes at a loss of sight, with the imposing mountains of the Pyrenees as a backdrop. This is an air ride that you are not ready to forget!

9. Underwater diving

The submarine diving centers of Biarritz (BAB Subaquatique and USB Diving) give you an appointment to the Port of Fishermen for a baptism or a subaquatic trip. Although the waters of the south of the Gulf of Gascogne are known to be agitated, the place is full of numerous underwater treasures.

At several tens of meters deep, you will go to meet the rich underwater fauna and flora of Biarritz, and will have the chance to visit the wrecks!

10. Jump in parachute

Are you an amateur of strong sensations? Among the best outdoor activities to do in Biarritz, the tandem parachute jump is undoubtedly the most impressive! After a short ground training, you will fly on a plane or helicopter in the sky of the Basque Country. At 3000 meters above sea level, the doors will open to make you live a unique and unforgettable moment: a freefall of more than 200 km/h, hung to a biplace pilot!

This activity is supervised by professionals to ensure your safety, your preparation for your landing. So, ready for the big jump?

11. Skate

After sliding on the waves of Biarritz, why not surf the bitumen?! When it is not in the street or the local skateparks, some skater·s find themselves around a rather discreet spot: the roof terrace of the Cité de l’Océan. In the hollow of this atypical roof in the form of a wave, we discover what looks like a bowl. Thus, the view of the beach of the Milady gives this place a particular charm!

The rain comes during your stay? Go the skatepark covered in Biarritz! With an area of about 1500 m2, you will find many modules, including a large bowl.

12. Outdoor Yoga

What more soothing than practicing outdoor yoga to reconnect to oneself and nature? More and more yoga studios and teachers in Biarritz offer courses outdoors. It must be said that the framework is particularly ready!

Start or finish your day in the best ways, facing the ocean and the mountains, on the heights of the Basque Coast, feet in the grass or sand. These sessions are generally accessible at all levels. Not to be missed if you are looking for an outdoor activity to do in Biarritz!

So, by what kind of outdoor activity are you going to let yourself be tempted during your next stay in Biarritz?