Living in San Sebastian we’re very lucky that we have everything on our doorstep.
Sea, sand, mountains, incredible food! Heck, we even have ski resorts less than 3 hours drive away.
But another luxury is the border with France.
One of my favourite plans on a weekend after work is to drive to one of the beach bars in Iparralde in the French Basque Country.
I’ve never been to Ibiza, but this is what I imagine it to be like at some of the beach bars there.
Sipping a cocktail as you watch the sun go down. You instantly feel like you’re on holiday!
If you have a car whilst in the area, then you won’t regret visiting one of these on a nice afternoon.
Amazing beach bars in Iparralde, France
There are plenty of beach bars dotted around the coast from Saint Jean de Luz, all the way up to Biarritz.
Below are some of my favourites that are easy to reach from San Sebastian in around 30-45 minutes (by car). If you don’t have a car, I’d recommend checking out our post on the best hidden bars in San Sebastian.
1. Bibam Bar (Saint Jean de Luz)
Bibam Bar is a bar-restaurant located near Mayarco Beach in Saint Jean de Luz.
Set up high, it has amazing views out over the Bay of Biscay. It’s an incredible spot to watch the sun set!
They have an extensive food and drinks menu including platters to share.
They also host regular live music events which you can find more about from their Instagram profile.
2. Ti Cabanon (Saint Jean de Luz)
Just down the hill from Bibam Bar, you’ll find a number of other beach bars.
Amongst them is Ti Cabanon. We single this one out as it’s the bar closest to the seafront and has unrivalled views of the Mayarco Beach.
A more rustic vibe compared to Bibam Bar, it’s ideal for an afternoon or sunset beer whilst looking out over the sea.
Aside from the local beers, they offer cocktails, pintxos and tapas and a full restaurant menu.
3. Le Bel Endroit (Saint Jean de Luz)
Le Bel Endroit is on the other side of the bay to Ti Cabanon and Bibam Bar, just a 5 minute walk away.
From the cliff tops it looks out over the Cenitz Beach with incredible views.
The bar has a very hipster vibe. Set on grass, there are deck chairs for taking some time out and loads of benches and barrels used as tables.
Burgers, poke bowls, salads and platters to share are served from the food truck alongside some of the region’s best local drinks.
4. Chez Nadyne (Guéthary)
Overlooking Cenitz beach from the other side of the bay is Chez Nadyne.
Open from 08:00 until late, it’s an idyllic spot for everything from a spot of breakfast to a late night cocktail.
The bar has amazing views of the bay and also serves great food throughout the day.
5. Bela Gorri / La Voile Rouge (Bidart)
If you’re looking for a chilled vibe where you can kick back with a cocktail and view over the beach, then Bela Gorri / La Voile Rouge is the place to be!
The bar is situated on the l’Uhabia Beach which makes for amazing sunset views!
There’s also plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, making it ideal if the sun is shining or if it’s a cooler evening.
6. Anaia Restaurant Snack (Bidart)
Just up the road from Bela Gorri / La Voile Rouge is Anaia.
It’s located just a short walk from the centre of Bidart and on the front of the Centre Beach. (When we visit we usually park at the bigger car park near l’Uhabia Beach and walk up).
The snack bar has a huge terrace which is a sun trap! There are also some great coastal walks nearby.
They serve everything from breakfast through to evening meals and cocktails.
7. Blue Cargo (Bidart)
Further north in Bidart on the Ilbarritz Beach is Blue Cargo.
This beach bar combines authenticity and elegance with Basque and contemporary cuisine. It’s the perfect place for those searching for a little more luxury!
It offers a relaxed, friendly atmosphere by day and a sophisticated dining experience on its sea-view terraces by night.
In the evenings, it transforms into an open-air dance floor with events and live music until 2 AM!
