Biarritz is a year-round destination, but each season has its own character, and the best time depends on what you want from the trip. The Atlantic climate means you can see sun and rain in a single day, so flexibility matters more than a perfect month. This guide describes what each season feels like.
Spring
From March to May the town wakes up. Temperatures climb slowly, flowers appear in the gardens and the beaches empty of crowds. The sea is still cold, but the air can be pleasant, and the surf is often good. Hotel prices are lower than in summer, and restaurants are relaxed. Spring is a fine time for walking the coastal path, visiting Bayonne and seeing the green hills of the interior. Pack layers, because showers are common.
Early summer
June is among the best months, with warm days, long evenings and fewer people than in July and August. Beach clubs open, surf schools are in full swing and the sea is warming. It is a good moment for boat trips, the cog railway and the hill villages, all in settled weather. Book accommodation in advance, since the season has started.
High summer
July and August are hot, crowded and lively. The beaches are full, restaurants are booked and prices peak. Biarritz hosts music, sport and cultural events, and the nearby festivals of Bayonne and Saint-Jean-de-Luz add to the mood. If you come now, reserve everything early, start your days early to beat the heat and the crowds, and use the evenings for dining. The sea is at its warmest, though still refreshing.
Early autumn
September is a local favourite. The sea is at its warmest, the beaches are quieter and the light is golden. Surf is often at its best as swells arrive, and the weather is often settled. Prices fall, and the pace slows. Espelette begins to hang its red peppers, and the harvest atmosphere appeals to food lovers. If you can choose one month, many residents would choose September.
Late autumn
October and November are mixed. Some days are warm and clear, while others bring storms and heavy rain. The beaches are almost empty, some restaurants and shops close for the season and hotels offer their lowest prices. The pepper festival in Espelette takes place around the end of October, and the bigger Atlantic swells draw expert surfers. It is a good time for spa breaks and for travellers who like dramatic weather.
Winter
From December to February Biarritz is quiet and often mild, with storms that send huge waves crashing against the rocks. Watching them from the promenade is thrilling, but keep a safe distance. Many seasonal businesses are closed, and the lighthouse, boat trips and some tours may not run, so check ahead. Hotel prices are low, and spas, museums and restaurants offer a cosy alternative to the beach. Pack a proper coat and waterproofs.
Surf through the year
Beginners do best from late spring to early autumn, when the waves are smaller and the water warmer. Experienced surfers often prefer autumn and winter, when the swells are larger. The Côte des Basques is gentle for longboards, while other breaks are more demanding. Whatever the season, follow local advice and the lifeguards.
Crowds and costs
The cheapest months are November to March, apart from the Christmas and New Year period. The most expensive are July and August. May, June and September offer the best balance of weather, atmosphere and price. If your dates are fixed, book the things you care about most first, such as your hotel, a table at your favourite restaurant and any special tours.
Practical weather tips
Always check the forecast and the tide times. Bring layers, a light waterproof, sun cream and a swimsuit in any season. Sea temperatures stay cool until midsummer, so a wetsuit helps for surfing. The mountains inland can be shrouded in cloud even on sunny days, so plan the cog railway for a clear forecast. Keep an indoor plan for rain.
Events and festivals
The calendar is busy in summer, with sport, music and food events across the coast, and the end of October brings the pepper festival at Espelette. Bayonne holds its big festival at the end of July or the start of August, and Saint-Jean-de-Luz and neighbouring towns hold their own fêtes. Dates change each year, so check with the tourist office. Festivals are fun but push up prices and fill hotels, so book early or choose a quieter week.