Biarritz is also a charming seaside resort that nestles in the cradle of the Atlantic ocean, and acts as a gateway to Spain. The town turned from quiet fishing port into elegant holiday resort when the monarchy began to holiday here, in the early 19th century. Now you can find top quality seafood restaurants and tapas bars here.

The Biarritz lighthouse has a viewing platform that offers spectacular views where you can see as far as the Virgin’s rock and even to the beaches of Spain. There are over 200 steps to the top however and you might want to bring a baby carrier or take turns going to the top if there are more than 2 of you visiting. Biarritz’s Rocher de la Vierge is also worth a visit. This is a statue situated on a small island that is accessible by footbridge, with magnificent views of the surrounding coastline.

Biarritz Sea Museum  is an absolute must-see for all those who love the ocean.Discover, in this centre of marine activity, a display of fish and invertebrate species from the Gulf of Gascoigne, learn about the different fishing techniques of the region, and all about marine history from the Basque coast and come face to face with the sharks in the shark cave and see seals on the terrace.

You can learn to surf in one of the surf schools or just sit back and watch the pros battle it out during the Gotcha Marbella Tag Team. Biarritz celebrates the extraordinary power of the sea at the Biarritz Ocean Festival.  In August the Rip Curl Pro Music Festival on the Plage d’Ilbarritz hosts rising international music stars and also promotes environmental awareness.

August also sees Les Têtards (‘Headstrong’), a competition for rising stars aged 5–14.

Because of its exceptionally mild winter climate, Biarritz has sea-swimming and even sunbathing for much of the year. For golf lovers, there are no less than 10 golf courses in the 20 kilometres around Biarritz and anyone and everyone can get involved. Biarritz has a tourist train which toddlers will love. It departs from the Plage Ouest at the Esplanade du Casino and Rocher de la Vierge. The ride is every 30 minutes and costs 5,50€ adults.

If you are based here, there are plenty of day trips that you can take from Biarritz such as to the pretty port town of Saint-Jean-de-Luz, or Bayonne, the capital of the Basque region.