Biarritz Coastal Walk: From Côte des Basques to the Lighthouse
Date Updated: January, 2026
Discover the Biarritz coastal walk, one of the most scenic seaside routes in the Basque Country. This step-by-step guide takes you from Côte des Basques all the way to the Phare de Biarritz (Biarritz Lighthouse) – passing stunning viewpoints, hidden beaches, and historic landmarks along the way. This is one of the many things you can do in Biarritz, check out my Biarritz travel guide or my 4 day Biarritz Itinerary for more info and ideas.
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Overview
Distance: ~4 km one way
Time: 2 hours leisurely pace
Difficulty: Easy–moderate (some uphill sections)
Best time: Early morning for quieter areas or late afternoon for golden light and sunset
Good to know: Check tides if you want to walk the sand between Grande Plage and Miramar
1. Start – Côte des Basques
Begin your Biarritz walk at the top of the Côte des Basques, the city’s most iconic surf beach. From the top viewpoint, the Atlantic stretches endlessly before you, with surfers dotting the waves below.
Take the winding path down to beach level and head northeast along the coastal trail toward Villa Belza (the grand mansion perched on the cliffs in the distance).
- Low tide: Watch surfers up close and stroll along the sand.
- High tide: Admire the dramatic waves crashing over the rocks below.
This first stretch gives you a perfect introduction to Biarritz’s wild coastal beauty.
4. Rocher de la Vierge (Virgin’s Rock)
Next, make your way to Rocher de la Vierge: the statue of the Virgin was placed on this rock in 1865 by fishermen as a thank-you after a terrible storm. Cross the metal footbridge and take in the sweeping views back toward the town. From here, waves crash dramatically against the rocks and can even splash you on a big day! This was a favourite stop of mine along the walk.
Up close, you’ll notice the golden sandstone cliffs, glowing warm under the sun. Just beyond, a natural rock arch perfectly frames the ocean, and if you look through it, you’ll spot our ending point, the Phare de Biarritz (lighthouse) in the distance.
After exploring, you can either take the path up and over or go through the dark tunnel. I suggest going up and over as this route offers beautiful views from the Cloche du Plateau de l’Atalaye, with benches to rest and enjoy the scenery.
As you descend back down, you’ll enter a charming area filled with hydrangeas and sea air — leading toward the old harbour.
2. Villa Belza (Belza Villa)
The Villa Belza sits dramatically on the cliffs above the ocean. The Villa Belza it’s one of Biarritz’s most recognizable buildings and has lived many lives. Built in 1882, it was a glamorous Russian restaurant and party venue in the 1920s, later a blockhouse during WWII, before finally being restored to the elegant villa you see today.
Just past Villa Belza, look over the railing below to find small tide pools visible at low tide, while at high tide waves crash into the coves and swirl up around the cliffs. There are benches and grassy spots nearby to rest and take it all in.
3. Plage du Port Vieux (Port Vieux Beach)
Continue a few steps to Plage du Port Vieux, a small, sheltered cove surrounded by cliffs. This beach is great for swimming and people-watching.
Walk down toward Eden Rock Café for a nice view back to the beach – you’ll see swimmers, cliff jumpers, and colourful umbrellas dotting the sand.
If you’re feeling thirsty, stop here for a drink, but don’t get too comfortable, there’s still plenty to see ahead!
5. Port des Pêcheurs (Fishermen’s Harbour)
+ Église Sainte-Eugénie (Saint Eugenie Church) & Rocher du Basta (Basta Rock)
Welcome to the Port des Pêcheurs, a small harbour lined with fisherman’s boats and seafood restaurants.
Take time to wander or stop for lunch on one of the sunny terraces, the seafood here is as fresh as it gets!
From the port, head up toward Église Sainte-Eugénie, the neo-Gothic church overlooking the water. The square in front often has live music under the cute little bandstand, and Délices du Moment (a small gelato kiosk) is a perfect pit stop for something sweet.
Next, you’ll pass the Fishermen’s Port Beach – not ideal for swimming because of its rocky seabed, but lovely for photos.
Cross the elegant arched bridge to reach Rocher du Basta (Basta Rock). Depending on the tide, you might find tide pools and little coves to explore before heading back over the bridge to continue along the promenade.
6. Grande Plage to Plage Miramar (Beach Promenade)
Continue along to Biarritz’s main beach: the Grande Plage, stretching all the way to Plage Miramar.
• Low tide: Walk the entire way on the sand.
• Higher tide: Stick to the promenade above the beach, as sections may be cut off.
This is the most open and breezy section of the coastal walk – a classic Biarritz stroll. Feel free to dip your feet in or relax on the beach.
7. Point de vue de l’Impératrice (Empress Viewpoint)
Before the final stretch, stop at the Point de vue de l’Impératrice for a quiet, elevated view back over the beaches and the dramatic cliffs. It’s a peaceful photo spot and a great place to catch your breath before the final climb.
8. Finish: Phare de Biarritz (Biarritz Lighthouse / Pointe Saint-Martin)
End your Biarritz coastal walk at the Phare de Biarritz (Pointe Saint-Martin Lighthouse), the crown jewel of the coastline.
From the plateau, you’ll have breathtaking panoramic views of the town, the beaches, and even the Pyrenees mountains on a clear day.
If you have energy left, end strong and climb the 248 steps to the top (entry €5, open seasonally). The view at sunset is unforgettable.
🍷 After Your Walk
You’ve earned a good meal! Check out my Biarritz Food Guide for the best local restaurants: whether you’re craving fresh seafood, Basque pintxos, or just a cold drink with ocean views.
Interactive Biarritz Coastal Walk Map
Save this interactive Biarritz Coastal Walk map to your Google Maps
