Milady Beach

Plage de Milady sits at the southern end of Biarritz's beach chain, beyond the dramatic cliffs of Côte des Basques, in a gently curving bay that catches Atlantic swells at an angle which reduces their power slightly compared to the more exposed central beaches. The result is a consistently lively but somewhat more manageable surf environment that has made Milady the preferred destination for families and beginner surfers within the Biarritz area — the beach has a convivial, democratic energy quite different from the more fashion-conscious Grande Plage.

The beach is wide and golden, backed by a beachfront café strip and a good car park, with lifeguard supervision through summer. Multiple surf schools operate from the sand offering lessons in both French and English, and the gentle gradient of the beach makes it excellent for young children even on days without surfing ambitions. The wave quality for learning is among the best in Biarritz on any given day — the consistent but manageable swell produces the kind of gently peeling waves that beginners dream of.

In the evening, Milady transforms into one of Biarritz's favourite sunset-watching spots: the western aspect of the beach means the sun descends behind the Atlantic horizon in an often spectacular display. After a day in the water, the cafés behind the beach serve cold Basque beer, pintxos, and the excellent regional charcuterie and cheeses that make the Basque Country one of France's great culinary destinations. The Piste Cyclable coastal cycle path continues south from here towards Anglet and Bayonne for cyclists seeking longer journeys.