Things To Do
in Anglet
Anglet is a sun-drenched coastal town on the Basque coast in southwestern France, famed for its long sandy beaches and pine forests. It sits just west of Bayonne and between Biarritz and the Atlantic, offering a laid-back seaside vibe with world-class surfing. The town blends Basque culture with French charm, featuring wide promenades, dune landscapes, and a mix of traditional taverns and modern eateries.
Visitors come for the outdoors, beach life, and a gateway to the Côte Basque's cuisine and culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing stroll along the stunning Plage des Cavaliers, where the sound of the waves sets a tranquil tone. Enjoy a delightful breakfast at a nearby beach café, savoring fresh pastries and local coffee. Take in the morning sun while watching surfers ride the early waves.
Spend your afternoon sunbathing and swimming at one of Anglet’s beautiful beaches, such as Plage de la Barre, renowned for its soft sands and vibrant atmosphere. Grab lunch at a beachfront restaurant, sampling local seafood dishes while enjoying the stunning ocean view. Afterward, try your hand at beach volleyball or join a surfing lesson to feel the thrill of the ocean.
As the sun sets, head to the coastal promenade for a leisurely walk, soaking in the stunning vistas of the Bay of Biscay. Choose a cozy seaside bistro for dinner, where you can indulge in Basque cuisine paired with a glass of local wine. Finish your evening with a beach bonfire, enjoying the ambiance with friends or new acquaintances.
Begin your day at the local market in Anglet, where the vibrant colors and aromas of fresh produce and handmade goods greet you. Engage with local vendors to learn about traditional Basque ingredients and perhaps pick up some souvenirs. Enjoy a traditional Basque breakfast at a nearby café, featuring specialties like tortilla or fresh bread with local cheese.
Visit the nearby town of Biarritz to explore its rich history and beautiful architecture, including the iconic Rocher de la Vierge. Spend your afternoon at the Cité de l'Océan, an interactive museum focusing on the ocean and its ecosystems, perfect for families and ocean enthusiasts. Take a moment to enjoy the panoramic views of the Atlantic from the museum's terrace.
Head back to Anglet for a cultural evening at the Théâtre de l'Atalante, where you can catch a live performance or local music event. Enjoy dinner at a traditional Basque restaurant, where you can taste dishes like axoa or piperade. Stroll through the charming streets of Anglet, absorbing the lively atmosphere as the town comes alive at night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $3-5 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two | $50-70 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $90-180 |
| 🚆1-day public transport pass | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal beauty and beaches with easy access to Basque culture
- Strong surfing scene and outdoor activities
- Proximity to Bayonne and Biarritz for culture and dining
- Can be crowded in summer
- Prices tend to be higher during peak season
- Some amenities are concentrated in nearby towns, requiring short trips
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est la plage?" - Where is the beach?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please.
Places to Visit in Anglet
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic cliffside beach with a rock outcrop, perfect for sunset shots.
Pine forest and dunes offering textures and light for nature photography.
Wide sandy expanse with surfers and sea cliffs in the background.
A tranquil lagoon with reflections and birdlife, ideal for reflections shots.
Food in Anglet
Anglet Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A colorful Basque pepper and onion stew often served with eggs or ham.
Must-Try!
A rich veal and pepper hash typical of Basque cuisine.
Slow-cooked duck leg with crispy skin, a regional classic.
Aged cured ham from nearby Bayonne, great in sandwiches or plates.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly markets with fresh seafood, fruit, and regional produce.
Vibrant markets offering Basque specialties and local products.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say bonjour or bonsoir when entering shops or greeting people; polite and friendly interactions are valued.
French is standard; Basque presence in the region is cultural—small use of Basque phrases is appreciated but not required.
Respect personal space; avoid loud behavior in public places, especially in religious or formal settings.
Safety
Tipping in Anglet
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is often included; a small extra tip (5-10%) is appreciated for good service.
Cash and credit/debit cards are widely accepted; some small vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, sunny days with strong Atlantic breezes; peak beach season, lifeguards on duty; water is refreshing.
Mild to warm days with fresher evenings; waves remain favorable for surfers; fewer crowds.
Milder than inland France, but windy and rainy; coastal scenery with dramatic skies.
Blooming landscapes, good conditions for walking and cycling; seaside towns come to life.
Anglet at Night
Hiking in Anglet
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A system of forest trails around the Chiberta area with coastal views.
Scenic walk along dunes with pine forests and views of the Atlantic.
Airports
How to reach Anglet by plane.
Nearest airport, about 4-6 km from central Anglet, with domestic and some international routes.
A larger airport further inland, roughly 150-180 km away, with limited international connections.
Spanish airport about 40-60 minutes drive from the Basque coast; offers regional flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Families enjoying beaches and parks; quieter residential areas exist around Anglet.
Longstanding Basque families with regional customs and language influence.
Seasonal visitors from France and abroad attracted by beaches and surfing.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The Basque coast is famous for surfing; many beaches in Anglet host surf schools and competitions.
Rugby is popular in the region with local clubs and matches; fan culture thrives in larger nearby towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Anglet.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetable-rich dishes; ask for Piperade without meat or eggs; opt for fish or vegetarian plates.