Below the Rocher de la Vierge, the Port des Pêcheurs is the oldest and most charming corner of Biarritz, a miniature harbour tucked into a rocky cove where fishing boats still rest and the colourful little huts known as crampottes cling to the foot of the cliff. In earlier centuries Biarritz was a whaling and fishing village, and this was its heart. Today the huts hold artisans and small restaurants, and the neighbouring Port Vieux beach offers calm, shallow water in a cove protected from the swell. A walk down the winding ramp from the plateau to the quay is an essential Biarritz experience, especially at the end of the day when the sun lights the cliffs gold and the restaurant terraces fill with the smell of grilled fish.
How the visit works
The harbour is reached on foot from the Plateau de l’Atalaye by a steep ramp or by a set of stairs, so it is better in comfortable shoes than in sandals with slippery soles. It is free and open at all times, though the restaurants have their own opening hours and often close on certain days of the week outside summer. The Port Vieux beach beside it is the town’s gentlest swimming spot because the cove blocks most of the swell, making it popular with families and with older swimmers who prefer calm water.
What to look for
The crampottes are the highlight, small wooden huts once used by fishermen to store their gear that are now painted and lived-in or used as shops. Along the quay you will see the boats, nets and lobster pots, and the cliff above is topped by the statue-crowned rock.
The location is a reminder that Biarritz grew from a Basque fishing and whaling village long before it became a resort, and a few plaques and displays tell the story. Behind the harbour, the narrow lanes of the old town lead back up to the market area and the church, which are lovely for wandering.
Making the most of it
Come in the afternoon for a swim at the Port Vieux, then stay for a seafood meal or a glass of local white wine as the light changes. If you eat here, book ahead in summer, because the harbour restaurants are small and popular, and ask what the catch of the day is.
In winter the harbour is quiet and atmospheric, and during storms you can watch big waves smash against the outer rocks from a safe distance. Take care on the wet stones, keep an eye on the tide, and do not climb on the rocks below the plateau.
Good to know
The steps are steep and uneven, so the harbour is not ideal for wheelchairs or heavy pushchairs, though the upper terraces still give a good view. Tides alter the look of the cove, and at high water the waves can splash over the outer wall, so keep back from the edge. The area is photogenic at every hour, but the best light comes in the late afternoon. Bring cash or a card for the small stalls and cafés, and ask restaurants about vegetarian options, since the menus lean heavily to seafood.
What to expect
The experience
A free self-guided wander down to a small fishing harbour, with a sheltered beach next door and seafood restaurants on the quay.
Best time
Late afternoon for swimming and golden light, with dinner afterward.
How long
One to two hours, longer if you swim or stay for a meal.
Tips
The ramp is steep and the stones are slippery, so wear shoes with grip. Book harbour restaurants ahead in summer.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Atmosphere, calm swimming and seafood in the oldest corner of Biarritz.
- Families
- Excellent for children thanks to the sheltered water, though the ramp is steep for pushchairs.
- Couples
- Dinner on a harbour terrace as the sun sets behind the rock.
- Pair with
- The Rocher de la Vierge, the Cité de l’Océan and the Grande Plage.
- Time needed
- Ninety minutes, more with a meal.
Good questions
What are the crampottes?+
They are the small wooden huts at the foot of the cliff, once used by fishermen to store their gear and now painted and used as homes or shops.
Is the Port Vieux good for swimming?+
Yes. The cove shelters it from most of the swell, so it is the calmest swimming spot in central Biarritz, popular with families.
Is the walk down difficult?+
The ramp and steps are steep, so wear shoes with grip and take care with pushchairs. The return climb is the harder part.
Is it free?+
Yes. The harbour and the beach are free. You only pay for food, drinks or equipment rental.
Should I book a restaurant?+
In summer, yes. The harbour restaurants are small and fill quickly in the evening, so reserve ahead.
