Guéthary is a small Basque fishing village on the Atlantic coast of France, close to Biarritz. Its setting is what draws most visitors: a compact village with a working harbour, and a coastline where the sea arrives over rocky reefs.
Waves and surfing
The village is known to surfers for its reef breaks, which run to both the left and the right. The waves tend to be at their best on bigger swells, when they break over the rock and give long, powerful rides. These conditions suit experienced surfers, and anyone less confident should be sure of their ability and the day's conditions before paddling out. Watching from the shore is a good way to see how the swell behaves.
Visiting the village
- Walk the short distances between the harbour and the coast, which are easy on foot.
- Watch the surf from the rocks or the headland, especially when the swell is up.
- Combine a stop here with a wider visit to Biarritz, a short distance away.
Guéthary suits a visitor who wants a quiet coastal base, a view of the Atlantic at work, and a taste of Basque village life rather than a busy resort. Check conditions locally before you go, as the surf changes with the weather.