Hendaye is the last town in France before Spain. It sits on the Bidasoa estuary, facing the Spanish towns of Hondarribia and Irun, with a 3 km sandy beach, a rugged Basque coastline and a relaxed seaside atmosphere.
Why visit Hendaye
For an easy-going beach holiday with two countries in one trip. The beach is safe and great for families, the coast is beautiful for walking, and Spanish Basque Country is just across the river.
Top things to do in Hendaye
The Grande Plage
A long, gently sloping beach, ideal for swimming and learning to surf, with the famous Deux Jumeaux rocks at its end.
The Château d’Abbadia
A 19th-century neo-Gothic castle and observatory built for the explorer Antoine d’Abbadie, surrounded by a protected coastal estate.
The Corniche basque
A wild coastal road and footpath from Hendaye towards Saint-Jean-de-Luz, with cliffs and folded rock layers falling into the ocean.
Pheasant Island
A tiny island in the Bidasoa that is ruled six months by France and six months by Spain, where the Treaty of the Pyrenees was signed in 1659.
Hondarribia and San Sebastián
A short boat ride takes you to Hondarribia’s old town; the Topo train reaches San Sebastián in about 35 minutes.
Best time to visit Hendaye
Summer for the beach and Basque festivals. Late spring and autumn are mild and quieter; rain is common at any time of year on this green coast.
Getting to and around Hendaye
Hendaye has a main-line SNCF station and the Basque Topo train to San Sebastián. San Sebastián airport, in Hondarribia, is about 15 minutes away, and Biarritz airport about 30. Buses and boats link the town centre, the beach and Spain.
What to eat in Hendaye
Basque cuisine on both sides of the border: piperade, axoa (veal with Espelette pepper), fresh fish, gâteau basque and, across the river, pintxos in Hondarribia.
Hendaye FAQ
Is Hendaye good for families?
Yes: the beach is wide and shallow, with lifeguards in summer and surf schools.
Can I visit Spain from Hendaye?
Yes, by boat to Hondarribia or by the Topo train to San Sebastián.
