Cambo-les-Bains Beaches

Overview

While Cambo-les-Bains itself is a charming spa town nestled inland, it serves as an excellent gateway to the stunning beaches of the French Basque Coast. A short drive, typically 20 to 30 minutes, transports you to the Atlantic shores, offering a diverse range of coastal experiences. From Cambo-les-Bains, you can easily explore vibrant surf spots and expansive sandy stretches, making it a convenient base for your seaside adventures.

The Basque Coast boasts beaches for every taste. Discover the iconic Beach Cote des Basques in Biarritz, renowned for its breathtaking scenery and as a historic surf hub. For vast sands and unique rock formations, Plage d'Hendaye is a popular choice, welcoming all. Families might also enjoy the sheltered bay of Saint-Jean-de-Luz. Experienced surfers often head to Parlementia hondartza or the pro surf zone at Les Cavaliers in Anglet. Many beaches here are celebrated for excellent surfing, a hallmark of the region.

Whether you seek the thrill of the surf or a relaxing day by the sea, the coastline near Cambo-les-Bains offers a memorable escape. This region provides a unique blend of lively beach atmospheres and more tranquil spots, allowing you to tailor your coastal experience. For a comprehensive guide to all the seaside gems, including other family-friendly shores and renowned surf breaks, be sure to explore our longer list of beaches.

FAQ

Is Cambo-les-Bains a beach town?

No, Cambo-les-Bains is a spa town located inland in the Basque Country, about 20-25 kilometers (around 20-30 minutes drive) from the Atlantic coast and its beaches. It's known for its thermal baths and the Villa Arnaga.

How far is Cambo-les-Bains from the nearest beaches?

Cambo-les-Bains is approximately 20 to 25 kilometers from the nearest beaches on the Basque Coast, such as those in Anglet, Biarritz, and Bidart. This usually translates to a 20 to 30-minute car drive.

Can you easily do a beach holiday from Cambo-les-Bains?

Yes, Cambo-les-Bains can serve as a good base for a holiday that combines thermal spa relaxation with beach excursions. While not directly on the coast, the beaches of the Basque Coast are a relatively short drive away (20-30 minutes).

What are the best beaches near Cambo-les-Bains for families?

For families, beaches like those in Saint-Jean-de-Luz and Hendaye are often recommended. They tend to have calmer waters due to being in sheltered bays, and Hendaye has the largest sandy beach in the Basque Country, considered one of the safest. Biarritz's Milady beach also has a playground and children's clubs.

Milady Beach

Are there accommodations closer to the beaches if I prefer not to drive daily from Cambo-les-Bains?

Yes, coastal towns like Biarritz, Anglet, Saint-Jean-de-Luz, and Bidart offer a wide range of accommodations, from hotels to vacation rentals, directly on or very near the beaches. Staying in these towns would provide easier beach access if that's your main priority.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

How do you get to the beaches from Cambo-les-Bains?

The most common way to reach the beaches from Cambo-les-Bains is by car, with a drive of about 20-30 minutes. Some coastal towns like Biarritz and Anglet are accessible by bus networks (e.g., Txik Txak network), which can be an option to avoid parking issues, especially in summer.

What is the water like for swimming at the beaches near Cambo-les-Bains?

The sea temperature on the Basque Coast varies. In summer (July-September), it averages between 19°C and 22°C (66°F to 72°F), which is comfortable for swimming. It can be cooler in spring and autumn. Some beaches are known for strong waves, ideal for surfing, while others in sheltered bays offer calmer waters.

When is the best time to visit the beaches near Cambo-les-Bains?

Summer (June to August/September) is ideal for beach holidays near Cambo-les-Bains, with warm weather and pleasant sea temperatures for swimming. Spring and autumn offer milder weather, which can be good for coastal walks and less crowded beaches.

People Also Ask

Is it better to stay in Cambo-les-Bains or a coastal town like Biarritz for a beach holiday?

It depends on your priorities. Coastal towns like Biarritz offer direct beach access and a livelier seaside atmosphere. Cambo-les-Bains provides a quieter, spa-town experience with easy access to both the mountains and the coast (20-30 min drive to beaches). Choose Cambo if you prefer a tranquil base and day trips to the sea.

Is parking difficult at the beaches on the Basque Coast?

Parking can be challenging at popular Basque Coast beaches, especially during peak summer months. Many towns like Biarritz have paid underground and surface parking lots. Some areas offer park-and-ride facilities. Using public transport like the Txik Txak bus network can be a good alternative to avoid parking hassles.

Are there dog-friendly beaches near Cambo-les-Bains?

Yes, but restrictions often apply, especially during summer. Outside of peak season (typically November to March/April), some beaches in Anglet, Biarritz, and Bidart allow dogs. Plage du Pavillon Royal and Plage du Métro are mentioned as pet-friendly, with some allowing dogs outside surveillance hours even in summer. Always check local regulations as they can change.

Plage du Pavillon Royal

Plage du Métro

What kind of atmosphere can I expect at the Basque Coast beaches?

The Basque Coast beaches offer a diverse atmosphere. Some, like in Biarritz, are lively and known for surfing culture. Others, particularly in towns like Saint-Jean-de-Luz or Hendaye, are more family-oriented with calmer waters. You'll find a mix of bustling town beaches with promenades and more natural, wilder stretches.

Are there alternatives to sea beaches for swimming near Cambo-les-Bains?

While the main attraction for swimming is the Atlantic coast, there are also lakes in the region, such as those at Saint-Pée-sur-Nivelle, Guiche, and Sames, which offer calmer waters, supervised swimming, and water activities. Cambo-les-Bains itself is on the Nive river, but specific swimming spots in the river would need local inquiry.

What are some local quirks or things to know about Basque Coast beaches?

The Basque Coast is famous as a surfing destination, with Biarritz often called a birthplace of European surfing. Tides can significantly change the beach landscape and swimming conditions. Some beaches have strong currents, so always swim in supervised areas. The local culture is strong, and you'll see Basque influences in towns.

Can I rent surfing equipment or take lessons at the beaches near Cambo-les-Bains?

Yes, many beaches along the Basque Coast, especially in towns like Biarritz, Anglet, and Hendaye, have surf schools offering lessons for all levels and rental shops for surfboards and wetsuits. Hendaye is often recommended for beginners.