Biarritz & Anglet · France
Surfing Alcyons
A reef in Biarritz & Anglet, France, for advanced and pro surfers.
- TypeReef
- LevelAdvanced / Pro
- Size3-10 ft
- Best monthsOct-Mar
- Crowd3/5
The wave
A quality reef break at the southern end of Biarritz, considered by many locals the best left in the area when a big N or NW swell wraps in. Alcyons handles size well and produces long, well-shaped walls over its reef bottom.
It's a step up in commitment from the Grande Plage or Côte des Basques, favoured by more experienced surfers wanting real quality rather than a crowded beginner beach. Wait for a solid N-NW swell, and expect a skilled, protective local crew.
43.475, -1.565 · Solid N-NW swell · Open in Google Maps
When to surf Alcyons
Alcyons is at its best from October to March. Conditions it likes: Solid N-NW swell. This is how the year looks across Côte Basque:
| Months | Verdict | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| October to March | Prime | Big, powerful swell, mild Basque winter |
| April to June | Good | Reliable swell, festival season starts in October |
| July to August | Quiet | Smaller swell, packed beaches, festival crowds |
In season: January · February · March · October · November · December
Waves near Alcyons
| Wave | Area | Type | Level | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Côte des Basques | Biarritz & Anglet | Beach Break | Beginner / Intermediate | under 1 km |
| La Grande Plage | Biarritz & Anglet | Beach Break | Beginner / Intermediate | 1 km |
| Anglet Jetties | Biarritz & Anglet | Beach Break | Intermediate / Advanced | 5 km |
| Sainte-Barbe | Guéthary & Hendaye | Reef | Advanced / Pro | 6 km |
| Avalanche | Guéthary & Hendaye | Reef | Pro | 7 km |
| Lafitenia | Guéthary & Hendaye | Right Point | Intermediate / Advanced | 8 km |
Straight-line distances. By road it is usually further.
Getting there and staying around Biarritz & Anglet
Transport, costs and the rest of the waves in the area are in the Biarritz & Anglet surf guide →
A week here costs from about $390 with flights from Europe, or around $1,032 travelling comfortably. See other surf trips under $500 →
Alcyons: common questions
When is the best time to surf Alcyons?
Alcyons works best from October to March. Ideal conditions: Solid N-NW swell.
Is Alcyons good for beginners?
No. Alcyons is a wave for advanced and pro surfers. The closest beginner-friendly spot we cover is Côte des Basques in Biarritz & Anglet, under 1 km away.
How crowded is Alcyons?
Alcyons is usually moderate: 3 out of 5 on our crowd scale.
Where is Alcyons?
Alcyons is in Biarritz & Anglet, in the Côte Basque region of France (43.475, -1.565). The nearest wave we cover is Côte des Basques, under 1 km away.
Last updated October 2026. Seasons, costs and conditions change, so check the details before you book.
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