Saint-Jean-de-Luz Vacation Rentals
Tips on renting in Saint-Jean-de-Luz
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Saint-Jean-de-Luz in Basque Country is a vibrant coastal town perfect for family travelers. Start your journey at the Grande Plage, a sandy beach ideal for swimming and picnics. Wander the lively Rue Gambetta for local boutiques and the famed Maison Adam, known for its Basque macarons. Visit the historic Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church, where Louis XIV married Maria Theresa of Spain. For a taste of maritime history, the Port de Saint-Jean-de-Luz offers boat tours like Nivelle V Croisières, which provide scenic views of the bay. Families will love Parc Ducontenia for its playgrounds and shaded walks. Explore the Basque Ecomuseum to learn about regional traditions and crafts. Don’t miss a stop at Les Halles Market for fresh seafood and local cheeses. Enjoy a family surfing lesson with H2O Surf School, or take a day trip to the fishing village of Ciboure across the Nivelle River.
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.
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.
Bidart
Discover Bidart in Basque Country, France—where your family can play on sandy beaches, hike green hills, and savor seaside picnics in the fresh Atlantic breeze.
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 Saint-Jean-de-Luz has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
-
Saint-Jean-de-Luz offers an exquisite gateway to the Basque Country’s natural marvels. Just a short drive away, the dramatic cliffs and lush forests of the Corniche Basque provide breathtaking views of the Atlantic, while the Pyrénées National Park beckons with its pristine alpine lakes and soaring peaks. The Rhune Mountain, accessible by charming cog railway, offers sweeping panoramas over the coastline and into Spain, making it an unforgettable highlight for those seeking both tranquility and adventure.
-
For an ideal blend of nature and proximity to Saint-Jean-de-Luz’s main attractions, consider staying near the historic Port de Saint-Jean-de-Luz. This area places you steps from the golden sands of Grande Plage, the scenic Pointe Sainte-Barbe coastal path, and the bustling Place Louis XIV, where you can enjoy lively markets and Basque cuisine. You’ll also be close to the lush Parc Ducontenia, perfect for morning walks surrounded by greenery.
-
In Saint-Jean-de-Luz, many holiday rentals and apartment-style accommodations cater to travelers planning longer stays by offering fully equipped kitchens and laundry facilities. While traditional hotels along the Grande Plage or near Place Louis XIV may not always provide these amenities, self-catering options in the vibrant fishing port area or close to the historic rue Gambetta often include modern conveniences. This makes it easy for visitors to prepare local Basque specialties and enjoy the comfort of home during their stay.
-
During a 3-day winter stay in Saint-Jean-de-Luz, immerse yourself in the Basque Coast’s charm by strolling the historic harbor and admiring the colorful boats. Explore the lively Place Louis XIV, where cafés offer warming hot chocolate and local pastries. Visit the Maison de l’Infante and Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church for a taste of history, then enjoy brisk walks along the Grande Plage, where the Atlantic waves crash dramatically against the seawall, creating a stunning winter spectacle.
-
Absolutely, Saint-Jean-de-Luz is renowned for its family-friendly sandy beaches, especially the Grande Plage, which is sheltered by sea walls creating calm, shallow waters perfect for children. The beach is right in the heart of town, close to the picturesque fishing port and the lively Place Louis XIV, making it easy for families to enjoy both the seaside and local Basque culture. Lifeguards are present in peak season, ensuring safety for young swimmers.
-
The closest ski resort to Saint-Jean-de-Luz is La Pierre Saint-Martin, located in the French Pyrenees. It’s about a two-hour drive inland, offering scenic mountain views as you travel from the Basque coast toward the Béarn region. La Pierre Saint-Martin is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, panoramic vistas of the Pyrenean peaks, and a variety of slopes suitable for beginners and experienced skiers alike, making it a fantastic winter getaway for visitors to Saint-Jean-de-Luz.
-
Absolutely, Saint-Jean-de-Luz offers several affordable family-friendly restaurants and cafés where you can enjoy delicious Basque cuisine without breaking the bank. Head to Place Louis XIV, the lively heart of town, where you’ll find casual bistros serving fresh seafood and local specialties like Basque cake. Along Rue Gambetta, charming cafés welcome families with outdoor seating, perfect for savoring crêpes or ice cream after a visit to the picturesque Port de Saint-Jean-de-Luz.
