Grande Plage at a glance
Located in the heart of Biarritz, an upscale town in the Basque Country where surfing and golf dominate, Grande Plage offers a view of the Cap Saint-Martin lighthouse and serves as the primary spot to enjoy the Atlantic Ocean during the warmer months. In the off-season, the beach takes on a rugged, natural character. Overlooked by the hydrangea-covered hillside, the area features a public garden, a swimming pool, and the Art Deco Casino Barrière. Sipping a coffee here while watching the sunset over the water is a local ritual.
Steps away from shops, cafes, and restaurants, Grande Plage draws heavy crowds in peak season but maintains a family-friendly vibe. Its signature striped tents and various kids clubs make it a go-to destination for families.
Often called the queen of beaches or the beach of kings, Grande Plage gained fame in the 19th century when Napoleon and Eugénie made it their preferred summer retreat, drawing European high society along with them. They built the iconic Villa Eugénie, now the Hôtel du Palais, with its signature red facade lit up day and night. Awarded palace status in 2011, the Hôtel du Palais remains a symbol of Biarritz elegance.
In 1865, the royal couple also developed the Rocher de la Vierge (Virgin's Rock), where the famous statue stands today. The project originally aimed to build a dike to protect the harbor, which included a wooden footbridge connecting it to the shore. If you have time, walk along the esplanade that leads to the Rocher du Basta. In any season, the view of the Spanish mountains is clear, and the sea spray is bracing. If you choose to walk along the base of the cliffs, keep a close eye on the tide charts.
In Biarritz, the beach is right in the city center. No need to plan on using your car to get there! It faces the casino and the Hôtel du Palais, which was the vacation residence of Empress Eugénie, the wife of Napoleon III. It is a beach where you will run into surfers from all over the world as well as vacationers from France and elsewhere. But it is hard to run into a local there!