What to do in Saint Jean de Luz: must-sees for your holiday

Published on 11/10/2021 - updated: 24 March 2026 - 4 min read - By Théo Mercier-Balaz

Contents

Key takeaways:

La Grande Plage, protected by its breakwaters, is ideal for families with young children.
The Saint-Jean-Baptiste church and Maison Louis XIV bear witness to an exceptional historical heritage.
The local gastronomy (macarons, Basque cake, pintxos) is an integral part of the experience.
The surrounding area guarantees plenty of hikes with views over the Atlantic Ocean.
Saint Jean de Luz also comes alive in the evening, with its traditional festivals and lively markets.

Are you planning a trip to the Basque Coast and wondering what to do in Saint Jean de Luz? Between its Great Beach for families, its historical heritage linked to the marriage of Louis XIV and its renowned Basque gastronomy, this seaside resort has something for all types of vacationers. Here’s an overview of the best activities to make the most of your stay from your campsite with water park.

Enjoying the Great Beach and Water Sports Activities

If you’re wondering what to do in Saint Jean de Luz as a priority, the answer is simple: head to the Great Beach. Protected from currents by three breakwaters, it offers safe swimming, particularly suitable for families. Thrill-seekers prefer the Erromardie and Lafitenia beaches, famous for their surf spots. You can also practice stand-up paddle, sea kayaking or go on a boat excursion to discover the bay from the water.

Discovering the Historical Heritage of the City

Saint Jean de Luz has remarkable historical heritage, intimately linked to the marriage of Louis XIV and the Infanta Maria Theresa of Austria in 1660. Two sites are absolutely worth visiting.

Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church

This emblematic building of Basque style is distinguished by its single nave and sculpted wooden galleries. It was here that the royal wedding was celebrated on June 9, 1660. Entry is free and the church is open every day, Monday to Saturday from 8:30am to 6:30pm and Sunday from 8am to 7:30pm.

Louis XIV House

The Louis XIV House (Lohobiague-Enea), built in 1643, welcomed the Sun King for more than a month. Guided tours last between 30 and 40 minutes. Expect 6€ for an adult and 3.80€ for ages 12-18. During the summer season, the house is open from 10:30am to 6:30pm (closed on Tuesdays).

Claire’s tip: Prefer to visit the Louis XIV House at the end of the day, when the setting sun illuminates the pink stone facade. It’s a moment that locals recommend particularly, and there’s much less crowd than in the morning.

Savoring Basque Gastronomy

It’s impossible to stay in Saint Jean de Luz without tasting local specialties. The Adam House offers its famous macarons, a recipe dating back to 1660. The Pariès House is renowned for its Basque cake, filled with cream or black cherry from Itxassou. Also treat yourself to a tour of pintxos, these small gourmet bites typical of the Basque Country, which you enjoy from bar to bar in the city center.

“For pintxos, we recommend strolling along Republic Street in the late afternoon: that’s where locals gather, in a friendly atmosphere you won’t find in the big guidebooks.” – Claire

Walking Around the Area

The surroundings are full of spectacular hiking trails for those wondering what to do around Saint Jean de Luz. The coastal path connects the city to Hendaye along the cliffs, with stunning views of the ocean. The village of Ciboure, just across the harbor, is worth a visit for its colorful streets and Socoa fort.

Participating in Local Events and Festivals

For an authentic experience, try to attend the traditional festivals of Saint Jean de Luz. The Saint John’s Festival, held every year in June, transforms the city into an open-air theater with Basque music and dances. The covered market, located near the halls, is a must-visit to discover local products: Espelette pepper, sheep’s cheese, Bayonne ham and artisanal chocolate.

Ready to book your stay? Discover our campsites with water parks in the Pyrenees-Atlantiques close to Saint-Jean-de-Luz!

FAQ – What to Do in Saint-Jean-de-Luz?

Frequently asked questions

What are the best family activities in Saint-Jean-de-Luz?

The best family activities in Saint-Jean-de-Luz include swimming at the Grande Plage, which is safe and child-friendly, a visit to the Maison Louis XIV, strolls around the harbor, and tasting gâteaux basques. The little tourist train (€9 adults, €5 children) also lets you discover the town without any effort.

Can you surf in Saint-Jean-de-Luz?

Yes, it's entirely possible to surf in Saint-Jean-de-Luz, but the best spots are the Erromardie and Lafitenia beaches, just a few minutes from the town center. The Grande Plage, which is calmer, is better suited to swimming. Several surf schools offer lessons for all levels.

What is there to visit around Saint-Jean-de-Luz?

Around Saint-Jean-de-Luz, you can visit the village of Ciboure and its Fort de Socoa, the town of Bayonne and its ramparts, Biarritz and its Rocher de la Vierge, or Espelette, famous for its peppers. The coastal path to Hendaye offers a spectacular hike.

Where can you eat the best pintxos in Saint-Jean-de-Luz?

The best pintxos in Saint-Jean-de-Luz are found in the bars of the town center, particularly around Rue de la République and Place Louis XIV. Tradition has it that you hop from bar to bar to sample a variety, pairing each bite with a glass of txakoli.

Are there campsites with water parks in Saint-Jean-de-Luz?

Yes, several 3- to 5-star campsites offer water parks in Saint-Jean-de-Luz and the surrounding Basque Country (Hendaye, Bidart). These campsites feature heated pools and slides, perfect for combining swimming with exploring the historic town center and the beach of Saint-Jean-de-Luz.

When is the best time to visit Saint-Jean-de-Luz?

The best time to visit Saint-Jean-de-Luz is from June to September, when the weather is favorable for the beach and outdoor activities. June has the added bonus of the Fêtes de la Saint-Jean festival and smaller crowds than in July-August.