Southwestern France, France
Summer (June-August): This is the warmest period. Average temperatures range from 18-25°C (64-77°F). Temperatures reach over 30°C (86°F). Expect high sunshine hours and moderate humidity. Occasional summer thunderstorms occur, bringing brief but intense rain.
Autumn (September-November): Autumn presents mild and pleasant weather, with temperatures between 12-20°C (54-68°F). September often feels like an extension of summer, with warm sea temperatures. Rainfall grows towards late autumn. This period is notably good for surfing, as the water stays warm, and ocean swells grow more consistent.
Each season presents different advantages and disadvantages.
High season brings warmth and full activity, alongside crowds and peak prices. Shoulder seasons balance pleasant weather with fewer visitors and better value. Low season finds few crowds and low prices, though many seasonal businesses close.
July-August
Warmest weather, full capacity attractions, swimming, sunbathing.
Most crowded, highest prices, packed beaches, challenging traffic.
May-June, Sept-Oct
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, lower prices, excellent for surfing.
Weather less predictable, beach facilities might have reduced hours.
Nov-April
Fewest crowds, lowest prices, good for experienced surfers, thalassotherapy open.
Cooler temperatures, more rain, strong winds, many seasonal businesses closed.
Biarritz experiences an oceanic climate. You will not encounter monsoons or hurricanes. However, Atlantic storms bring considerable rainfall and strong winds, especially outside of summer.
Coastal paths may close during severe weather for safety. Always check local forecasts.
May-June for learning, Sept-Oct for experienced surfers.
July-August for best conditions.
May, June, Sept, Oct for comfortable temperatures.
Available year-round, appealing in cooler months.
Shoulder seasons for balanced experience.
France, as part of the Schengen Area, has specific entry rules. Understand these requirements before your trip.
Schengen Visa: Citizens of countries not part of the EU/EEA/Switzerland generally need a Schengen visa for stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This visa covers tourism or business. Apply at the French embassy or consulate in your country of residence well in advance of your trip.
Visa-Free Entry: Citizens from many countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Japan, South Korea, and most Latin American countries, can enter France visa-free for stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This permits tourist visits without prior visa application.
The ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is expected to launch in mid-2025.
Prepare these documents carefully for smooth entry.
Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date from the Schengen Area. It also must have been issued within the last 10 years. Proof of Onward/Return Travel: Have your airline tickets or confirmed travel itinerary. Proof of Accommodation: Provide hotel reservations or an invitation letter. Proof of Sufficient Funds: Show bank statements or credit card statements.
Validity
Valid for 3 months beyond departure, issued within 10 years.
Check passport expiry and issuance date.
Onward/Return
Airline tickets or confirmed itinerary.
Demonstrate intent to leave Schengen Area.
Accommodation & Money
Hotel reservations or invitation letter.
Show financial means to cover your visit.
No general entry fees apply for tourists entering France. Upon arrival, go through standard immigration procedures, including passport control. Customs checks also occur.
No special permits are generally needed for standard tourist activities or to visit specific areas within Biarritz or the surrounding region.
France does not impose specific health entry requirements.
Routine vaccinations should be up-to-date.
Consult a healthcare professional prior to departure.
EU/EEA/Swiss citizens, carry your European Health Insurance Card.
Highly recommended for all travelers. Check policies from World Nomads or SafetyWing.
Biarritz can fit various budgets, from frugal to luxurious. Plan your spending to match your travel style.
The currency in France is the Euro (€). Automatic Teller Machines (distributeurs automatiques) are widely available throughout Biarritz for cash withdrawals. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. American Express is less common.
Always inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to prevent card suspension due to unusual activity.
These figures offer a guide; individual spending habits vary. (Excludes International Flights)
Biarritz presents as a generally safe destination. However, planning for health and safety aids a trouble-free trip.
No specific vaccinations for entry from most countries.
Routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP, Polio, Varicella). Hepatitis A and B are generally recommended.
Consult a healthcare professional well before travel to discuss personal health needs.
Tap water is safe to drink. Food hygiene standards are high.
Sunburn/Heatstroke: Use Broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear hats, seek shade, stay hydrated with a Reusable water bottle.
Minor Cuts/Scrapes: Bring a Basic first aid kit for immediate care from beach activities.
Food/Waterborne Illnesses: Generally not a concern due to high hygiene standards.
Use for any emergency (medical, police, fire).
For medical emergencies requiring an ambulance.
For crime reporting or immediate police assistance.
Biarritz is a very safe city with low crime rates. Most visits occur without incident.
Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended for all travelers. A good policy covers:
Medical emergencies, hospitalization, emergency medical evacuation.
Trip cancellation or interruption, lost or delayed luggage.
Atlantic storms bring strong winds and heavy rain, especially outside summer. Coastal paths may close.
