Biarritz: Surf lessons on the Côte des Basques beach

Biarritz’s Côte des Basques beach is famous for its stunning scenery and as the birthplace of European surfing in 1957. The Lagoondy école de surf offers surf lessons for all levels here, with sessions lasting 1 hour and 30 minutes and prices starting at $53 per person. This school is accredited by the French Surf Federation, ensuring a high standard of safety and professionalism. With small groups limited to 8 participants, you’ll receive plenty of individual attention from qualified instructors. The tours are flexible enough to suit beginners, intermediate, and advanced surfers alike, and lessons are available in French, English, and Spanish.

The experience is designed to be accessible for a wide age range, from 7 to 97 years old, as long as you can swim. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a safe, fun introduction to surfing or a chance to improve their technique in a friendly environment. While the tour focuses solely on lessons and equipment, it offers an authentic connection with a renowned surf spot, with the added convenience of high-quality, seasonally adapted gear and liability insurance.

Key Points

• Professional surf lessons led by DE instructors with extensive experience
• Small group size of up to 8 participants ensures personalized coaching
• All equipment provided, including wetsuits and surfboards suitable for every season
• Lessons take place only at low tide, optimizing wave conditions
• Suitable for ages 7 to 97, no prior experience required
• Multiple languages available: French, English, and Spanish

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Legendary Côte des Basques Beach in Biarritz

The tour takes place on Côte des Basques, voted France’s most beautiful beach. Recognized as “la plage des Tontons Surfeurs”, this spot is historically significant as the site of Europe’s first surfing waves. The beach’s beautiful scenery and consistent surf make it an ideal location for both learning and practicing surfing. Lagoondy’s bungalow serves as the meeting point, directly in front of the beach, making the start effortless.

The beach’s gentle slopes and sandbars create safe zones for beginners, while more experienced surfers can challenge themselves in the waves. The area is fully accessible, and storage bins are available in the changing rooms for convenience. The surf school only operates during low tide, when wave conditions are optimal, so the schedule adjusts accordingly.

What Surf Lessons Include

Participants are guided through 1 hour and 30 minutes of tailored instruction. The discovery session begins on the sand, where instructors provide basic theoretical explanations and safety instructions. The focus is on technique, safety, and autonomy in the water. During the lesson, you’ll learn to gear up with a wetsuit and leash, lie on the board, and stand up confidently.

The instructors limit class size to 6 students per instructor, ensuring close supervision and individual feedback. The lesson takes place on a sandbar or safe wave zone, offering ample opportunities to catch waves and practice skills while maintaining safety. For those looking to build on this foundation, mini courses of three lessons are available, allowing for consecutive days or alternate sessions over a week.

Equipment and Gear for All Seasons

Lagoondy provides high-quality surfboards and wetsuits suited to all levels and seasonal water temperatures. Wetsuits are available in various thicknesses to keep participants comfortable, and all necessary accessories, including yellow and red Lycra, are included. For colder days, slippers are provided for added warmth. The focus on adapted gear ensures that participants stay comfortable regardless of the season.

How the Lessons Are Delivered

The lessons are delivered in French, English, and Spanish, catering to diverse visitors. Each session is led by certified instructors with professional expertise and a passion for teaching. The small group setting creates a friendly atmosphere, where each participant receives personalized guidance. The theoretical component on the beach prepares you for what to expect in the water, with safety as a priority.

More Great Tours Nearby

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

Participants need only the ability to swim to join the lessons, making it accessible to most. The lessons are designed to accommodate all ages and skill levels, from complete beginners to those looking to refine specific techniques. The wheelchair accessibility ensures that this experience remains inclusive for individuals with mobility needs.

Meeting Point and Practical Details

The meeting point is directly at the Lagoondy bungalow located in front of Côte des Basques beach in Biarritz avenue du Prince de Galles. The school provides slippers for cold feet and storage bins in the changing rooms for convenience. To participate, bring a towel and dress appropriately for water activities.

Since lessons are scheduled only at low tide, it’s wise to check the timing beforehand, as these may vary depending on wave and sandbank conditions. Booking is flexible, with options to reserve now and pay later, and cancellations are permitted up to 24 hours in advance.

Who Will Enjoy This Surf Experience?

This tour is perfect for anyone eager to try surfing in Biarritz, whether it’s their first time or they wish to improve their skills. The small group format and qualified instructors ensure a safe, supportive environment. The multilingual instructions make it accessible to international visitors, and the beautiful location adds to the enjoyment.

While the focus remains on learning and safety, visitors should be comfortable with getting wet and being in the water. The lessons run only during appropriate tide conditions, which might require adjustments to your schedule if you’re planning multiple activities.

Comparing Lagoondy with Other Surf Courses

Lagoondy’s accreditation by the French Surf Federation and certification since 1995 signify established professionalism. The small group size of 8 or fewer means more individual attention than many larger surf schools. The all-season equipment and multilingual instructors further enhance the experience.

Other options in Biarritz offer longer or private lessons, but Lagoondy’s value for money at $53 and focus on safety and quality make it an attractive choice for newcomers and seasoned surfers alike.

Final Thoughts on Biarritz Surf Lessons with Lagoondy

This tour delivers high-quality surfing instruction in the heart of Biarritz’s most iconic beach. The experienced instructors, professional equipment, and small group sizes provide a supportive environment for learning or improving surf skills. The location at Côte des Basques, with its historic significance and stunning scenery, adds a special touch.

While it’s limited to low tide hours, the lessons’ flexibility and inclusiveness make it an excellent option for travelers seeking a fun, safe, and authentic surf experience. Perfect for families, beginners, or those wishing to refine their technique, this surfing package offers a solid introduction to the sport in a legendary setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do the surf lessons last?
The lessons are 1 hour and 30 minutes long, providing ample time for instruction and practice.

What ages can participate in the lessons?
Participants range from 7 to 97 years old, with no prior experience necessary, as long as they can swim.

Are equipment and wetsuits included?
Yes, all equipment, including surfboards, wetsuits, and accessories like Lycra and slippers, are provided during the lessons.

Can I book a private or group session?
The lessons are offered in small group sizes limited to 8 participants, but private lessons are not specified in the current details.

What should I bring for the lesson?
Participants should bring a towel and wear appropriate swimwear under their wetsuit. The school supplies all necessary safety gear.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the lessons are wheelchair accessible, allowing broader participation.

When are the lessons scheduled?
Lessons occur only at low tide, with times varying based on wave and tide conditions. It’s best to check in advance for specific schedules.

What languages are available for instruction?
Lessons are conducted in French, English, and Spanish, catering to international visitors.

This Biarritz surf lesson experience by Lagoondy offers a reliable, enjoyable way to learn or improve surf skills in a beautiful and historic setting, making it a top choice for surf enthusiasts visiting the coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby