Best time to swim in Biarritz in the French Basque country Sea temperature by month

The town of Biarritz is known for its long sandy beaches and rolling waves. Beach holidaymakers come either to swim in Biarritz or to surf. This coastal town in the Aquitaine region, known as the European surf capital, buzzes like no other during the summer season and the Indian summer. That's because the climatic conditions, notably the sea temperature in Biarritz, are particularly favourable for seaside activities. Yet, like most coastal towns facing the Atlantic, Biarritz experiences periods that are unfavourable for seaside tourism.

Best times to enjoy the beach in Biarritz

The period from May to October is a great season to enjoy the beach in Biarritz. The climate is mild and the sun gently warms you all day. However, May is still cool for comfortable swimming. The water is indeed cold, with temperatures ranging between 14°C and 18°C.

If you want to enjoy the quiet of the beach for surfing, equip yourself with a wetsuit suited to the cool water. Even though the sea temperature in Biarritz gradually warms over time, June and July bring a certain mildness unless you time your swim for the warmest hours of the day.

As August is the hottest month of the year, expect crowds of holidaymakers coming to enjoy the seaside pleasures.

And even if the weather cools in September and October, the climatic conditions will give you what is poetically called an “Indian summer”. This is the period surfers choose to flock to the beaches.

Periods unfavourable for beach activities in Biarritz

Toward the end of autumn, the climatic conditions deteriorate and the days become cool. Air temperatures are mild and swimming in Biarritz is no longer comfortable because of the cool water.

From December to March, the beaches are no longer suitable for seaside getaways because of the cold and increased rainfall, especially since during this period the sea temperature in Biarritz is freezing. The weather is more for walking and playing Basque pelota, which has the merit of warming you during winter.