Hendaye Vacation Rentals
Tips on renting in Hendaye
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Hendaye, located on France’s Basque coast, offers a perfect family getaway with its wide sandy Plage d’Hendaye, ideal for swimming and beginner surf lessons with Ecole de Surf Lehena. Stroll the scenic Boulevard de la Mer, where cafés like Battela serve local specialties. Explore Château Abbadia, a neo-Gothic castle with guided tours that fascinate both adults and kids. The port area is lively with boat rentals from Hendaye Nautique for trips along the Bidassoa River. Families enjoy the Domaine d’Abbadia nature reserve, featuring easy trails and panoramic ocean views. Take a ride on the Petit Train Touristique for a fun city overview. Visit the lively Les Halles market for Basque cheeses and pastries. Don’t miss a ferry ride to Hondarribia in Spain, just across the river, for a cross-border adventure. For relaxation, Thalasso Serge Blanco offers family-friendly spa treatments. Hendaye’s blend of culture, nature, and recreation ensures a memorable trip.
Nearby cities
Urrugne
Discover Urrugne in Basque Country—where your family can picnic by green hills, bike scenic trails, and play together under sunny skies by the sparkling coast.
Saint-Jean-de-Luz
Bring your family to Saint-Jean-de-Luz in Basque Country—build sandcastles, stroll lively markets, and savor sea breezes on sunlit beaches together.
Guethary
Bring your family to Guethary in Basque Country for sunlit beaches, gentle waves, scenic walks, and open-air markets—perfect for kids and parents to explore together.
Saint Pée sur Nivelle
Discover Saint Pée sur Nivelle in Basque Country—where your family can picnic by the shimmering lake, paddle, hike green hills, and savor sunny village days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Hendaye has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The best time to visit Hendaye, France for outdoor fun is late spring through early autumn, particularly from May to September, when the weather is warm and the Atlantic waters are inviting. During these months, Plage d’Hendaye, one of the longest beaches in the Basque Country, becomes a paradise for surfers and sunbathers. The coastal hiking trails along the Sentier du Littoral reveal breathtaking views of the Bay of Biscay and the dramatic cliffs of the Domaine d’Abbadia.
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In Hendaye, you can find trustworthy local guides and family adventure tours through the Office de Tourisme d’Hendaye, located near the picturesque Plage d’Hendaye. They partner with reputable operators like Ongi Etorri and Explore Océan, who offer guided excursions from surfing lessons on the Bay of Biscay to hiking trips in the Pyrenees foothills. These guides are knowledgeable about the Basque culture and ensure families experience the best of Hendaye’s coastal charm and natural beauty.
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Many properties in Hendaye, especially in popular areas near Plage d’Hendaye and the marina, cater to longer stays by offering well-equipped kitchens and laundry facilities. Vacation rentals and aparthotels often provide guests with stovetops, microwaves, washing machines, and even dishwashers, making it convenient for families or travelers planning extended visits. This setup allows you to enjoy home-cooked meals after a day exploring Château d’Abbadie or relaxing along the scenic Basque coast.
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A 3-day trip to Hendaye offers a vibrant mix of beach relaxation and cultural exploration. Start your adventure with a stroll along the expansive Plage d’Hendaye, famous for its golden sands and the dramatic Deux Jumeaux rocks rising from the Atlantic. Visit the Château d’Abbadia, a neo-Gothic castle perched on the cliffs, where you can tour the observatory and lush parklands. Don’t miss the lively marina area, with its Basque architecture and waterfront cafés, perfect for sampling local pintxos.
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In Hendaye, Plage d’Hendaye stands out as one of the cleanest and safest swimming areas, thanks to its gently sloping sands and regular water quality checks. Lifeguards patrol the beach during the summer, ensuring a secure environment for families and swimmers of all ages. The beach’s location near the Boulevard de la Mer offers easy access to amenities, while the scenic views of the Basque coastline and the iconic Deux Jumeaux rocks create a memorable seaside experience.
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Yes, near Hendaye you’ll find charming winter lodges and cabins in the foothills of the Pyrenees, particularly around the village of Saint-Jean-de-Luz and the Col d’Ibardin. These accommodations offer a warm, rustic atmosphere with wood-burning fireplaces and scenic mountain views. From here, you’re just a short drive from the La Rhune mountain railway, which offers snowshoeing and panoramic winter vistas, and the ski resorts of Iraty and Artouste for skiing and snowboarding adventures.
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In Hendaye, visitors can expect to pay around 10 to 20 euros for entry to prominent sites like Château d’Abbadie, where you can explore fascinating neo-Gothic architecture and panoramic ocean views. Guided tours along the scenic Basque Coast or boat trips on the Bidassoa River typically range from 15 to 30 euros per person. Surfing lessons at the famous Hendaye Plage, known for its gentle waves, usually cost about 35 to 45 euros for a group session.
