Port Vieux Beach
A charming, horseshoe-shaped beach in Biarritz known for its calm waters, perfect for swimming and relaxation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful and less crowded
Port Vieux Beach
Best Time
Peaceful and less crowded
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming, horseshoe-shaped beach in Biarritz known for its calm waters, perfect for swimming and relaxation.
"This is the swimmers’ beach. My favourite place in Biarritz."
🎯 Go Early or Late
Avoid peak crowds by visiting before 11 AM or after 6 PM for a more manageable experience. :clock1:
🏊♀️ Perfect for Swimmers
Ideal for swimming due to calm waters; not suitable for surfing. Locals swim to the island! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Calm Swimming Waters
Port Vieux Beach
Enjoy serene, protected waters perfect for a relaxing swim, away from strong waves. Ideal for all ages.
Sunset Views
Port Vieux Beach
Witness magical sunsets over the ocean, painting the sky with vibrant colors. A truly romantic setting.
Oceanfront Dining
Restaurants surrounding Port Vieux Beach
Dine with stunning ocean views, enjoying local cuisine as you watch the waves.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at Port Vieux
Swim Smart at Port Vieux
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Go Early or Late
Avoid peak crowds by visiting before 11 AM or after 6 PM for a more manageable experience. :clock1:
🏊♀️ Perfect for Swimmers
Ideal for swimming due to calm waters; not suitable for surfing. Locals swim to the island! :athletic_shoe:
🌅 Sunset Magic
Experience breathtaking sunsets over the ocean, a truly magical sight.
🍽️ Dine with a View
Enjoy meals at surrounding restaurants with fantastic ocean vistas. :forkandknife:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Go Early or Late
Avoid peak crowds by visiting before 11 AM or after 6 PM for a more manageable experience. :clock1:
🏊♀️ Perfect for Swimmers
Ideal for swimming due to calm waters; not suitable for surfing. Locals swim to the island! :athletic_shoe:
🌅 Sunset Magic
Experience breathtaking sunsets over the ocean, a truly magical sight.
🍽️ Dine with a View
Enjoy meals at surrounding restaurants with fantastic ocean vistas. :forkandknife:
🌊 Check Water Quality
While generally good, water can sometimes be dirty. Keep an eye on conditions. :droplet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Port Vieux Beach is praised for its calm, swimmable waters and beautiful setting, making it a favorite for families and relaxed swimmers. While charming, it can get very crowded, especially in August, and water quality can occasionally be a concern. Visitors recommend early mornings or late evenings for a more peaceful experience.
"A small but calm point to relax and swim, without worrying about continues waves. There are hotels all around so you can sit there, eat and enjoy the ocean view."
MAKAROVE
"This is the swimmers’ beach. 🏊🏼 Locals change on the concrete on the right for easy sea access and getting less sand all over. Many people swim out to the island, some with fins. Not for surfing 🏄🏾 Lots of swimming with hats and goggles ..even in April. My favourite place in Biarritz."
Mari Williams
"beautiful but insane like everything else in Biarritz in August. go before 11am or after 6pm for less or more manageable crowds"
Addie W
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Port Vieux Beach is centrally located in Biarritz, making it easily accessible. You can walk from many hotels and the town center. Public transport options are also available, with bus stops nearby. Parking can be challenging, especially during peak season, so consider walking or using public transport if possible.
Parking near Port Vieux Beach can be difficult and expensive, particularly during the summer months. It's advisable to look for parking garages in the vicinity or consider alternative transportation methods like walking or public buses.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Port Vieux Beach is a public beach and does not require an entrance fee. You can visit and enjoy the beach freely.
Port Vieux Beach is accessible at all times. However, seasonal lifeguards are present during specific hours in the summer months for safety.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Yes, Port Vieux Beach is excellent for swimming due to its calm, sheltered waters. It's a popular spot for locals and families who enjoy swimming out to the small island.
Port Vieux Beach is not suitable for surfing. Its calm waters are designed for swimming and relaxation, not for wave riding.
To avoid the busiest crowds, it's recommended to visit Port Vieux Beach either early in the morning (before 11 AM) or later in the evening (after 6 PM).
While specific facilities can vary, public beaches in Biarritz often have nearby restrooms and changing areas, especially during the peak season. It's best to check local signage upon arrival.
Absolutely! Port Vieux Beach is known for being a family-friendly spot due to its calm waters and protected environment, making it safe for children to play and swim.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are numerous restaurants and cafes surrounding Port Vieux Beach, offering a variety of dining options with beautiful ocean views.
Picnicking is generally allowed on public beaches. You can bring your own food and drinks to enjoy on Port Vieux Beach, but remember to clean up after yourself.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire beach offers picturesque views, especially during sunset. The horseshoe shape provides a unique frame, and the surrounding cliffs add to the scenic beauty. Don't miss capturing the swimmers heading out to the island.
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography at Port Vieux Beach. Early mornings also provide a quieter setting for capturing serene shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of sunscreen and perhaps some beach toys. While there are restaurants nearby for convenience, bringing your own snacks and drinks is also a good idea. Visiting in the morning ensures a less crowded experience, making it easier to keep an eye on children.
❤️ Couples and Relaxed Travelers
The real magic happens during sunset. Watching the sky transform into a canvas of colors over the ocean is an unforgettable experience. Follow your beach time with a delightful dinner at one of the many oceanfront restaurants surrounding the bay, making for a perfect evening.
🏊♀️ Avid Swimmers
While not for surfing, this beach is a paradise for lap swimmers and those who prefer a tranquil water experience. Consider bringing goggles and fins if you plan to explore further out. The concrete access points on the right side are also noted by locals for easier entry and exit from the sea.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Port Vieux Beach
This beach offers a unique perspective of Biarritz, away from the bustling surf scene. It’s a place to relax, soak in the sun, and enjoy the gentle lapping of waves. The surrounding hotels and restaurants provide convenient options for dining with stunning ocean vistas, enhancing the overall experience. Whether you're a seasoned swimmer or just looking for a peaceful spot to unwind, Port Vieux Beach delivers.
While beautiful, it's worth noting that the beach can become quite crowded, especially during the peak summer months. To truly appreciate its tranquility, planning your visit during the shoulder seasons or opting for early morning or late evening hours is highly recommended. This allows you to experience the beach at its most peaceful, capturing its true charm.
Experiencing Biarritz's Coastline
If you're interested in the surf culture that Biarritz is famous for, Côte des Basques is a must-visit. While it can disappear with the tide, it's a prime spot for surfers and offers a different beach experience compared to the calm waters of Port Vieux.
Other notable beaches include Plage Marimar, known for its calm and romantic ambiance, and the Grande Plage, Biarritz's main beach, which is larger and more active. +1Exploring these different coastal spots provides a comprehensive taste of Biarritz. From the tranquil swimming of Port Vieux to the energetic surf of Côte des Basques, each location offers a unique facet of this vibrant French seaside town. Don't forget to wander through the charming streets and discover hidden gems like the Port des Pêcheurs (Fishermen's Port).
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit