Diving the Cote des Basques

Site Overview

Cote des Basques is a reef and macro dive site in Atlantic Coast, France, reached from the base town of Biarritz. The Cote des Basques is the birthplace of Basque surfing, and its rocky reefs also hold octopus, cuttlefish and nudibranchs. It is a gentle shore dive for macro lovers, with the famous beach just above. The site reaches a maximum depth of 14 m with an average profile around 9 m and a shallow start near 3 m, which places it firmly in the beginner category and means divers should hold at least an Open Water certification. Conditions are typical of the French coastal coast: visibility generally runs from 6 to 16 metres, the current is mild, and the water temperature ranges between 14 and 21 degrees Celsius with moderate surge exposure. The marine community is centred on Common Octopus, Common Cuttlefish, Conger Eel, European Lobster, Two-banded Seabream, Dusky Grouper, and the full species list is detailed below for divers planning a trip. Cote des Basques is a strong representative of why Atlantic Coast diving is so highly regarded, blending the geology, history and biodiversity that define French underwater exploration. It pairs naturally with the other sites of the Atlantic Coast region for a varied holiday, and with the right thermal protection and, where relevant, the correct specialist training, it offers a memorable dive for photographers, naturalists and wreck or reef enthusiasts alike.