Counting the waves…
Counting the waves…
Plage de Sokoburu occupies the quiet flank of Hendaye, pressed between the Bidasoa River mouth and the town's compact marina. The sand here is fine and tawny, leveling out at low tide to reveal shallow pools where toddlers wade while their parents eye the jagged silhouette of Jaizkibel across the water. Unlike the broad Atlantic-facing sweep of Hendaye's main beach, Sokoburu feels protected, almost lacustrine, its modest waves lapping rather than crashing. The marina's pontoons and bobbing yachts lend the beach an unpolished, lived-in character. Fishermen mend nets in the morning; by afternoon, families claim patches of sand beneath striped parasols, and the air smells of sunscreen and salt. A promenade runs behind the beach, lined with tamarisks that lean landward from the prevailing wind. Walk east along the riverbank and within minutes you'll reach the international bridge to Irun—the frontier marked only by a change in pavement and the sudden appearance of pintxo bars. This is not a postcard beach; it's a neighborhood one. The water stays calm enough for confident swimmers to stroke out toward the channel markers, and the shallow gradient makes it forgiving for children. When the tide recedes, the wet sand reflects the sky in pewter tones, and the distant Pyrenean foothills seem to float above the haze.
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Plage de Sokoburu.
Photos
Plage de Sokoburu is generally safe for swimming with calmer conditions than the main Atlantic-facing beaches due to its eastern position near the Bidassoa estuary. The urban beach setting means better accessibility and nearby facilities, making it family-friendly. However, always check current conditions and tide times, as the proximity to the estuary can affect water quality and currents. During summer, the beach may have seasonal surveillance, but verify before assuming lifeguard presence. The sandy bottom and gradual slope suit families with children.
Visit between June and September for warm weather and best swimming conditions, though the beach is accessible year-round. Summer mornings offer pleasant temperatures before afternoon crowds arrive. Spring and autumn provide comfortable weather for beach walks and marina strolls with fewer tourists. The beach's eastern location means it can be slightly cooler than south-facing beaches but offers some shelter from prevailing Atlantic winds. Weekdays are quieter than weekends. Check tide schedules as the beach experience changes significantly between high and low tide.
Plage de Sokoburu is located in eastern Hendaye near the marina and Spanish border, easily reached by car with parking available nearby. From Hendaye train station, it's accessible by local bus or a 15-20 minute walk toward the marina area. The beach is well-signposted from the town center and Boulevard de la Mer. If arriving from Spain, it's just across the Bidassoa River. The urban location makes it one of the most accessible beaches in Hendaye, suitable for visitors without cars using public transport.
The area around Plage de Sokoburu and the nearby marina offers several restaurants, cafés, and bars serving French and Basque cuisine, seafood, and casual dining. The marina district has waterfront establishments perfect for post-beach meals. Hendaye town center, a short distance away, provides extensive dining options. Accommodation ranges from beachfront hotels to vacation apartments and guesthouses throughout Hendaye. Nearby amenities include shops, bakeries, and supermarkets. The Spanish border town of Irun is also close for additional dining and lodging choices.
Plage de Sokoburu occupies a distinctive position as Hendaye's eastern beach near the marina and Spanish border, offering a different character from the famous Grande Plage. Its location provides views toward the Bidassoa estuary and Spain rather than the open Atlantic. The proximity to the marina creates a nautical atmosphere with boats and water activities. It's less crowded than the main tourist beaches while still offering urban amenities and easy access. The beach serves locals and visitors seeking a convenient beach day combined with marina strolls and cross-border exploration.
