Located where the Boudigau and Bourret rivers flow into the North Atlantic Ocean, Capbreton is a picturesque resort town famed for its beaches. It’s on the doorstep of a protected wetland with exceptional birdwatching and the pine forests of Landes de Gascogne Regional Natural Park.
Things to do in Capbreton
Spend your days relaxing on Plage Centrale, Plage du Prévent or Plage du Santocha, which stretch almost continuously along the waterfront of Capbreton. There are plenty of rock pools where you can fossick for marine life while the Sentier de la Dune footpath offers an excellent introduction to the native flora and fauna of the coastal region.
Overlooking the river mouth is l’Estacade, a jetty originally opened by Napoleon in 1858. It’s a popular spot to stroll at sunset while enjoying the sweeping views across the coastline in both directions. The jetty is a short walk from Capbreton’s lively port and fish market where you can pick up the catch of the day. Extending to the north of the river mouth is Hossegor, which is a popular surfing destination due to its reliable waves.
On the outskirts of Capbreton sprawls the Réserve Naturelle Nationale du Marais d’Orx, a protected wetland and mecca for birdwatchers. This former polder was drained for agricultural purposes under Napoleon III and has been restored to its natural mosaic of willow groves, meadows and reed beds. It provides an important resting habitat for a variety of migratory birds, as well as a wintering site for ducks.
Getting there
Capbreton is a 30-minute drive from Biarritz and Biarritz Pays Basque Airport, which has seasonal flights to destinations across Europe. Buses connect from towns and cities across Landes to Capbreton and also travel throughout the city.