Take a trip to Biarritz's fishing port

Biarritz is best known for its not-to-be-missed surf spots, but the coastal town also has a lot to offer. The Basque city is home to a small fishermen's village made up of picturesque little huts with colourful shutters. Situated on the seafront, this friendly little place brings together the locals who come and go along the coast and tourists curious to discover the surrounding area. A friendly neighbourhood where life is good and the food is great!

Among the crampottes lining the coastline, you'll find some of the best places to enjoy a good plate of freshly caught fish. Not far from there is a small, confidential beach nestling between the rock and the ramparts that protect it from the wind and waves. What could be better than a Biarritz getaway to the old fishermen's haunt of the Basque coast?

© Pascale Gueret / Shutterstock

On the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, just behind Biarritz's main beach, you are plunged into another era. Here, time seems to stand still, and you can imagine the fishermen returning from their night fishing in the early hours of the morning to unload the fish, sold at the market a few hours later. The Port des Pêcheurs is a small village typical of the Biarritz coastline. The port was built in the 19th century. The very first breakwater was 7 metres long, before being extended a few years later to 30 metres. At the time, more than 300 fishermen worked here.

From the 1950s onwards, sailors deserted the profession, which now numbers just thirty or so professionals. Today, it is above all a small marina where life is good. Mostly frequented by local residents, diving schools have also set up in the area. It's a great opportunity to discover the seabed of the Basque coast.

© Elena Ska / Shutterstock

This walking area has retained its old-world charm. Authentic and colourful, the area is lined with crampottes. These are typical little fishermen's huts with painted shutters. They face a sublime panorama, punctuated by the rustle of the waves in the background. An ideal place to relax, this harbour area is perfect for strolling around, reading a book and letting your mind wander to the rhythm of the tides. There's nothing like a breath of sea air to recharge your batteries on holiday!

© Thomas Dutour / Shutterstock

The best places to eat fresh fish

Chez Albert

This fish restaurant is a firm favourite with the locals. The menu features fresh fish (of course!), shellfish, seafood and delicious paella! Boasting a prime location, you can enjoy your shellfish on the terrace while taking in the breathtaking ocean views.

👉Address: 51 bis, allée Port des Pêcheurs, Biarritz (64200)

Times: open every day from 12.15pm to 2pm and from 7.30pm to 10pm

Casa Juan Pedro

Here you'll be greeted by Jean and Paul, twin brothers who have taken over the family restaurant. The speciality here is grilled meats! The dishes are cooked on the spot. A veritable institution on the Basque coast, the restaurant offers typical cuisine based on fresh produce. With its warm atmosphere and friendly staff, it's the perfect place to spend a pleasant moment in the port of Biarritz.

👉Address: 51 bis, allée Port des Pêcheurs, Biarritz (64200)

Opening times: open every day from 12.15pm to 2pm and from 7.30pm to 10pm

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The Port des Pêcheurs beach

Just a few steps away is a pretty sandy beach protected by ramparts and a rock in the shape of a cove. This small, secluded beach is frequented by local residents all year round. As it is sheltered from the wind and waves, the sea is calm (most of the time) and perfect for bringing children.

The designer night market

During the summer months, the Port des Pêcheurs hosts an evening craft market from 7pm to midnight. Discover the creations of local artisans for a digestive stroll in the evening, lulled by the sound of the waves breaking on the beach.

Practical info

How do I get there?

Situated along the coast, the port can be reached on foot from the Biarritz Aquarium or after a stroll near the Cloche du Plateau de l'Atalaye. Accessible by bike, a two-wheeled stroll with your hair blowing in the wind seems an excellent option on sunny days. If you prefer to go by car, the Indigo - Saint Eugénie car park is nearby. And if you don't want to take a car, two buses (N10; N11) stop at Bellevue car park.

👉Address: allée Port des Pêcheurs, Biarritz (64200)

There's nothing like getting on board a little train to take you along the Biarritz coast.

👛 Price (from): €7 Duration: 30 minutes

Find all the information about the town on the Tourist Office website.

Where to stay?

You can stay at this magnificent hotel, just 3 minutes from the beach.

Hôtel De L'Océan Biarritz
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Hôtel De L'Océan

Hotel located a stone's throw from Place Sainte-Eugénie
8 Very good
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© Hotel De L'Océan/ Booking.com
by Editorial Team
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