Ferry Port
St Malo
650 km, 6-7 hours
Airport
Biarritz Pays Basque
From Calais
11-12 hours
Est. Tolls
£75-£90
About Biarritz
France's surf capital on the Atlantic coast, Biarritz is a glamorous seaside resort with Belle Époque architecture and Basque culture. Once the playground of Napoleon III and European royalty, today it blends elegant beaches, world-class surf breaks, excellent Basque cuisine, and proximity to the Spanish border. It's the gem of the Basque Coast.
Best for
Tips for Getting to Biarritz
Flying to Biarritz is strongly recommended — budget airlines serve the airport from several UK cities.
If driving, Portsmouth-St Malo or Portsmouth-Bilbao (northern Spain) ferries are far better than via Calais.
The Basque Coast road (Corniche Basque) to San Sebastián in Spain is spectacular.
Biarritz has excellent surf year-round, but summer (June-September) offers warmest water and best beach weather.
Explore Basque cuisine: pintxos, piment d'Espelette, Bayonne ham, and gâteau basque are all must-tries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to get to Biarritz from the UK?
Fly direct to Biarritz from London, Bristol, or other UK airports. If driving, use Portsmouth-St Malo ferry (6-7 hours to Biarritz) rather than Calais route (11-12 hours).
Is Biarritz good for surfing?
Excellent. Biarritz is France's premier surf destination with consistent Atlantic swells year-round. Grande Plage and Côte des Basques are the most famous breaks. Surf schools abound.
How far is Biarritz from Spain?
Just 30 minutes from the Spanish border. San Sebastián (excellent food capital) is 45 minutes away, making day trips to Spain very easy from Biarritz.
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