Grande Plage, Biarritz, Sandy beach in central Biarritz, France
The Grande Plage stretches along the Bay of Biscay with fine white sand and clear water for swimming and surfing. The beach slopes gently and is lined with a promenade featuring cafés and restaurants.
In the early 1800s this beach was a destination for medical bathing treatments before Empress Eugénie's frequent visits in the mid-1800s transformed it into an elegant resort. Her patronage made it fashionable among Europe's wealthy travelers.
The beach shapes Biarritz's character through traditional blue and white striped cabanas that recall the elegant bathing culture of the early 1900s. These distinctive tents remain part of daily life and show how deeply locals value their French Basque coastal heritage.
Lifeguards are on duty from April through November with extended hours during summer months. The beach offers changing rooms, showers, and equipment rental at several locations.
A children's club offers supervised activities and swimming instruction during summer months. This program makes the beach especially welcoming for families who want their young ones to play and learn safely.
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