Biarritz: Surf lessons on the Côte des Basques beach

If you’re dreaming of catching your first wave or refining your surf skills in a scenic corner of France, the Lagoondy surf lessons at Côte des Basques could be just the ticket. With a reputation for friendly, professional instruction and breathtaking coastal scenery, this experience promises a memorable way to get into surfing — whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to improve your technique.

What we love about this tour? First, the experienced, qualified instructors ensure safety and solid guidance. Second, the high-quality surf and wetsuit equipment is adapted perfectly to all seasons and sizes — so you can focus on riding waves. Lastly, the location on the legendary Côte des Basques offers stunning views and a genuine surf vibe, making your session not just instructional but also genuinely scenic.

Of course, a potential consideration is that lessons are only run at low tide, which could limit flexibility depending on the timing of your trip. Still, for those eager to learn or improve, this setup ensures optimal wave conditions and safety. This experience is especially suited for travelers of all ages and levels who want easy access to professional instruction in a beautiful setting — whether you’re visiting solo, with friends, or family.

Good To Know

• Expert instruction from qualified DE instructors in a safe environment.
• Top-tier surf equipment suited to all levels and seasons.
• Perfect location on Côte des Basques, France’s most beautiful beach.
• Inclusive for all ages from 7 to 97, with lessons available in multiple languages.
• Flexible packages including single discovery sessions or multi-day courses.
• Limited group sizes ensure personalized attention and safety.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An inside look at the surf lesson experience in Biarritz

The iconic Côte des Basques setting

Starting at the Côte des Basques, you’ll find yourself on a beach renowned for its stunning beauty and historic significance. Voted France’s most beautiful beach, it’s a spot where surfing has been practiced since 1957 — the beginning of European surfing. The scenery alone makes every moment on the water feel special, with sweeping views of the Atlantic, cliffs, and a lively surf community that’s welcoming for newcomers.

Meeting point and facilities

You’ll meet at the Lagoondy bungalow, conveniently located in front of the beach on Avenue du Prince de Galles. Here, the team supplies lockers for your belongings and offers wetsuits, Lycra, slippers, and surfboards of all types and sizes. The setup ensures you’re comfortable and prepared, regardless of water temperature or season—so you won’t be left shivering in the Atlantic breeze.

The teaching approach

The sessions are tailored to various skill levels, with small groups limited to 8 students, ensuring plenty of individual attention. The instructors are fluent in English, French, and Spanish, making this accessible to a broad international audience. Each lesson lasts 1.5 hours, a perfect length to learn and practice without fatigue.

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What happens during the lesson?

The beginner’s session begins with a quick theoretical overview on the sand, covering safety and wave etiquette. From there, you’ll head into the water, where your instructor will be right there with you, guiding your every move. They limit the number of students to ensure safety and personal guidance, providing a relaxed environment where everyone can learn at their own pace.

If you’re more experienced, the instructors focus on refining techniques like quick stand-ups, maintaining balance, and turning, with tips on paddling efficiently and catching waves. Reviewers mention that for the more advanced, the team offers helpful feedback to improve skills like positioning and wave reading, making this suitable for a wide range of surfers.

The actual surf

Depending on wave and tide conditions, lessons are organized on a sandbar with a good foothold, so you have stability and safety. You’ll be equipped with a wetsuit and board suited for your size, so you’ll stay warm and afloat no matter the water temperature. The focus is on technique, safety, and autonomy—building confidence in the water.

The mini course option

For those who want to really get their surfing going, the Mini Stage offers three lessons designed to build on each other. This is perfect if you want a more structured learning experience over consecutive days or on alternating days, with the same small group and expert supervision. Reviewers point out that this approach helps solidify basics like standing up quickly and maintaining balance, boosting confidence for future waves.

The reviews speak volumes

Multiple reviewers praise the friendly, knowledgeable guides who create a safe and encouraging atmosphere. One reviewer noted, “Great experience, friendly team, understanding and fun,” highlighting how instructors make learning enjoyable. Another mentioned that the setup allows for catching many waves, which is ideal for beginners eager to get as much practice as possible.

What makes this surf lesson in Biarritz worth it?

The quality of instruction

Having DE-certified instructors guarantees a high level of safety and expertise. Many reviews emphasize their patience, clarity, and ability to adapt to different skill levels. Their presence in the water, often sharing tips and encouragement, ensures you’re never left feeling overwhelmed or unsafe.

The equipment and safety

The surfboards and wetsuits are of high quality, adapted to your size and water temperature. The inclusion of Lycra and slippers adds comfort, especially in colder months. This focus on gear means you can concentrate on your technique without worrying about equipment issues.

The location and timing

Choosing Côte des Basques means being in one of France’s most scenic and historic surf spots. Lessons are scheduled at low tide, which is when the conditions are most suitable for learning, though this does mean some flexibility in your schedule is necessary.

Group size and language options

Limited to 8 students, the small group setting ensures personalized attention, even in a busy season. The multilingual guides make the experience accessible to a diverse crowd, whether you’re a beginner or more advanced.

Value for money

At $53 per person for 1.5 hours, the price reflects a high-quality lesson with top instructors, equipment, and safety assurances. Considering you get personalized guidance, gear, and a beautiful setting, this is a solid investment for anyone serious about starting or improving their surfing.

Who should consider this surf lesson?

This experience is perfect for beginners wanting to get their first wave in a safe, supportive environment. It’s also excellent for intermediate surfers looking to refine technique or gain more confidence. Travelers who enjoy scenic coastal settings and cultural experiences will appreciate being in Biarritz, a town with a deep surf heritage.

Families and small groups will find the small group size and flexible scheduling ideal, especially if traveling with children or non-surfing companions. The multilingual instruction makes it accessible for international visitors, and the inclusive age range (7 to 97) means everyone can join in the fun.

However, if you’re already an advanced surfer looking for challenging, high-performance waves, this might be more of a foundational session than an advanced coaching experience.

The Sum Up

The Lagoondy surf lessons on Côte des Basques offer a well-rounded, professional introduction to surfing in a breathtaking setting. The combination of expert guides, quality equipment, and scenic views makes this a valuable experience for anyone wanting to learn or improve their skills. The small group format ensures you’ll receive plenty of personal attention, and the flexible packages suit both quick learners and those wanting a deeper dive into the sport.

For travelers seeking a blend of culture, natural beauty, and active fun, this experience hits all the right notes. It’s particularly ideal if you want to gain confidence on the water, surrounded by stunning scenery and expert advice. Whether you’re in town for a day or planning a longer stay, this surf lesson provides a memorable, authentic taste of Biarritz’s famous waves.

FAQ

How long is each surf lesson?
Each session lasts 1.5 hours, providing enough time for instruction, practice, and catching waves without fatigue.

Can I join if I’ve never surfed before?
Yes, these lessons are suitable for complete beginners, with a focus on safety and learning the basics.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the 1.5-hour surf lesson, all necessary equipment (surfboard, wetsuit, Lycra, slippers), and liability insurance.

Are the lessons suitable for children?
Absolutely, the minimum age is 7 years old, making it family-friendly.

What languages are lessons offered in?
Guides speak English, French, and Spanish, accommodating diverse travelers.

Are wetsuits provided?
Yes, wetsuits of different thicknesses are available depending on water temperature and season.

Where do I meet for the lesson?
Meet directly at the Lagoondy bungalow in front of Côte des Basques beach, on Avenue du Prince de Galles.

Do lessons happen every day?
Lessons are scheduled at low tide, which varies daily, so check availability and tide times when booking.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the activity is accessible for wheelchairs, ensuring inclusivity for all participants.

This surf lesson offers a practical, enjoyable way to dive into the world of surfing amid some of France’s most stunning coastlines. With expert guidance, excellent gear, and a welcoming community, your Biarritz surf adventure is set to be both fun and rewarding.

You can check if your dates are available here: