Bidart is a beach break on France's Basque coast, peeling both left and right over a mix of sand and uneven reef. It has a loyal longboard following and holds up as a solid, beginner-friendly spot. Scattered rocks are the main thing to watch, and they sit exposed at low tide.
When It Works
The break draws swell from west through north (W-N), with northwest (NW) the best match. It's usable from 0.3 m / 1 ft to 1.8 m / 6 ft, and because it picks up less swell than the beaches nearby, it comes into its own on small to medium days and can close out once things get bigger. It's a consistent spot, with the best windows in spring and autumn, roughly March to May and September to October. Peaks can shift around, and the water turns rippy when it's big.
Wind and Tide
Look for a southeast (SE) offshore wind. It works across low, mid, and high tide, though a rising tide is generally the better call. The beach thins right out at high, so catch it on the drop.
Local Tips
Bidart takes just about any board, from shortboards, fish, and funboards to longboards, bodyboards, and bodysurfing, and it's a friendly place to learn. Expect a moderately busy lineup with a strong local surf club crew, so a little humility and respect go a long way.
Access
There's a car park with free parking plus roadside spots along the beachfront on Rue de la Plage. Facilities include restrooms, showers, a lifeguard, and a surf school. The nearby river can leave water quality suspect after heavy rain.
