aventuro Back to map A
Beaches and ponds #7 in Biarritz

Plage de l'Uhabia

4.4 · 1,717 reviews
Active, family-friendly, and surf-oriented.
Plage de l'Uhabia, Rue de l'Uhabia Plage de, 64210 Bidart, France
Interesting facts
1

The Uhabia River serves as a natural administrative boundary between the towns of Bidart and Guéthary.

2

The beach is part of the 'Sentier du Littoral', a continuous hiking trail that runs along the Basque coastline.

3

The name 'Uhabia' derives from the Basque language, meaning 'the river mouth'.

4

Coastal erosion periodically alters the beach's profile, leading to seasonal changes in the width of the sand dunes.

5

The beach hosted professional surfing competitions during local surf festival events.

Overview

Plage de l'Uhabia is a significant sandy beach located at the estuary of the Uhabia River in Bidart, south of Biarritz. It features a distinct landscape where the river meets the Atlantic Ocean, creating shifting sandbanks and varying surf conditions. The beach is primarily known for its popularity among intermediate surfers due to its consistent wave breaks. Lifeguard stations are operational during the peak summer months to oversee safety in designated swimming zones. The shoreline is bordered by a paved promenade that connects the beach area to the wider Basque coastal trail. Facilities include public showers, toilets, and several beachfront restaurants offering views of the coastline. The beach maintains a more rugged, natural aesthetic compared to the highly developed urban beaches of central Biarritz. Access is provided via a parking area situated directly adjacent to the beach entry point.

Photo spot

The elevated path at the northern end of the beach looking south toward the Guéthary coastline.

Insider tips

Check the tide charts before visiting, as high tide significantly reduces the available sand area.

Use the coastal path for a scenic walk toward the neighboring beach of Parlementia.

Stick to the marked flags for swimming, as the river mouth can create unpredictable currents.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to swim in the river mouth area, as the confluence of currents can be hazardous even for strong swimmers.

Good to know

Lifeguard supervision is limited to the summer season; off-season swimming is at one's own risk.

Etiquette

Respect the 'no smoking' zones on the sand; nudity is strictly prohibited.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-4 hours
Best time to visit
Low tide during early summer mornings to avoid peak crowds and capture calmer water conditions.
Address
Plage de l'Uhabia, Rue de l'Uhabia Plage de, 64210 Bidart, France
43.432, -1.600
Get directions
Details
Surface typeSand
Water activitiesSurfing and swimming

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-4 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Low tide during early summer mornings to avoid peak crowds and capture calmer water conditions..

The elevated path at the northern end of the beach looking south toward the Guéthary coastline.

Close by you'll find Rocher de la Vierge, City Ocean, Biarritz Aquarium.