Biarritz: Surf lessons on the Côte des Basques beach

Biarritz’s Côte des Basques is legendary among surfers and travelers alike. This stretch of rugged coastline, voted France’s most beautiful beach, is where surfing took root in Europe back in 1957. For just $53 per person, Lagoondy offers 1 hour and 30 minutes of guided surf lessons that cater to everyone — from complete beginners to seasoned wave riders.

The lessons are held by certified instructors from the French Surf Federation, ensuring safety and professionalism. The entire experience takes place right on the iconic beach, with top-quality surfboards and wetsuits provided, tailored to water temperatures and your size. We love how accessible and inclusive this tour is, welcoming ages from 7 to 97. It’s a chance to try something new and get a taste of surfing in a place that’s practically the birthplace of European surf culture.

The only thing to consider is the variable tide schedule. The lessons are only run at low tide, which means you’ll need to be flexible with timing. But for us, this constraint keeps the sessions safe and enjoyable, especially for beginners.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a fun, authentic introduction to surfing, appreciate beautiful coastal scenery, and value small-group instruction with personalized attention. If you’re looking for a memorable way to connect with the sea, Lagoondy’s surf lessons are an excellent choice.

This experience made our article of Discover 15 Great Tours In Biarritz.

Key Points

• Authentic Biarritz Experience: Surf on the famous Côte des Basques, where surfing history began in Europe.
• Expert Instruction: Courses led by qualified French Surf Federation instructors, ensuring safety and quality.
• Inclusive for All: Suitable for ages 7 to 97, with lessons adapted for all skill levels and water conditions.
• Flexible Learning Options: Options for a single discovery session or three consecutive lessons to build skills.
• High-Quality Equipment: All gear, including wetsuits and surfboards, is provided and tailored to your size.
• Ideal for Beginners and Curious Travelers: Perfect if you want a safe, guided introduction or to improve your technique.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Surf Experience in Biarritz

Location and Setting: Côte des Basques, a Surfer’s Paradise

Our journey begins at the Lagoondy surf school bungalow, situated conveniently in front of the Côte des Basques. This beach is not just visually stunning but historically significant, being the birthplace of surfing in Europe. As we walk onto the sand, the expansive waves and rugged cliffs immediately set an inspiring scene. The beach’s reputation as “la plage des Tontons Surfeurs” is well-earned, thanks to its consistent surf breaks and welcoming atmosphere.

The Structure and Flow of the Lessons

The typical 1h30 surf lesson begins with a quick meet-and-greet at the Lagoondy bungalow, where you’ll find storage bins and changing areas. The instructors, all DE-certified (diploma in surfing instruction), explain safety rules and a bit of theory, providing background on marine conditions and surf etiquette. This small-group setup, limited to 8 participants, ensures plenty of individual attention.

Once in the water, the focus is on technique, safety, and building confidence, especially for beginners. Because lessons are scheduled at low tide, students have a stable sandbar to practice on, making it easier to catch waves and stay safe. During the session, instructors stay in the water with students, guiding each person through the essentials — from paddling and positioning to standing on the board.

Equipment and Comfort

The quality wetsuits are adapted to the water temperature, with options ranging from thinner suits for summer to thicker ones in colder months. Surfboards are chosen based on your skill level, ensuring you have the right gear for progress. Lycra rash guards (yellow and red) are available for visibility, and slippers are provided if your feet feel cold — a small but appreciated touch.

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What You’ll Learn

For beginners, the emphasis is on getting up on the board, maintaining balance, and understanding safety signals. More advanced students can quickly learn to turn and row efficiently, giving them a sense of autonomy in the water. The instructors are praised for being friendly and understanding, making it easy for nervous first-timers and seasoned surfers alike to enjoy the experience.

The Three-Lesson Mini Course

For those wanting a deeper immersion, Lagoondy offers a package of three lessons, which can be scheduled consecutively or flexibly over a week. This format allows you to consolidate skills — from catching your first wave to turning and paddling confidently. The small class size and in-water supervision make sure you’re supported every step of the way.

Reviews and Authentic Feedback

Multiple reviewers speak about the friendly team and stunning views. Killian from France calls the experience “really honest,” highlighting the authenticity of the instruction. Mikaël, also from France, describes it as a “great experience” with a friendly, understanding team. Travelers appreciate the professionalism of the guides and the chance to learn something new in a safe environment.

Practical Considerations

Timing is key — lessons are only offered at low tide, which varies day to day. The tour provider recommends checking the schedule and being flexible. The small group size (max 8) ensures personalized guidance, but it also means booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak seasons. The cost of $53 is quite reasonable, considering the high quality of instruction and equipment supplied.

Who Will Enjoy This?

This tour is perfect for families, solo travelers, or groups curious about surfing but unsure where to start. The all-ages approach, combined with professional instruction in multiple languages, makes it accessible. It’s particularly well-suited for those who value authentic coastal experiences and want to connect with Biarritz’s surf heritage without the hassle of renting equipment or planning logistics.

The Sum Up: Is This Surf Lesson Worth It?

For travelers seeking a genuine surfing introduction, Lagoondy’s lessons on the Côte des Basques offer fantastic value. The combination of expert guidance, prime location, and inclusive approach makes it stand out among surf activities in Biarritz. Whether you’re a complete novice or looking to refine your skills, this experience provides a safe and enjoyable way to experience the sea.

If you’re after a small-group, personalized lesson in a location that oozes surfing history and charm, this tour is a clear winner. It’s especially appealing for those who want a memorable, hands-on introduction to surfing with the support of knowledgeable, friendly instructors.

For travelers who love stunning coastal scenery, enjoy learning new skills in a fun environment, and value authentic local experiences, this surf lesson ticks all the boxes.

FAQ

Do I need to know how to swim?
Yes, you should be able to swim. The lessons are designed for beginners, but swimming ability is essential for safety in the water.

What is the maximum group size?
The lessons are limited to 8 participants per instructor, ensuring personalized attention and safety.

Are the lessons suitable for children?
Yes, children from 7 years old and up can participate, provided they are comfortable in the water and can swim.

What should I bring?
Just a towel. All necessary equipment, including wetsuits and surfboards, is provided.

Can I book a single lesson or do I need the full package?
You can choose a single discovery session or opt for a series of 3 lessons, which helps improve skills faster.

What if the tide is not right on the day I want to surf?
Lessons are scheduled only at low tide, and the schedule may shift based on tide and wave conditions. It’s best to check with Lagoondy for the most current timing.

In summary, Lagoondy’s surf lessons on the Côte des Basques combine stunning scenery, expert instruction, and inclusive, safety-conscious teaching. Whether you’re a first-timer or just want to get a taste of surfing in a beautiful setting, this experience offers great value and genuine fun.

You can check availability for your dates here: