Things To Do
in Capbreton
Capbreton is a small coastal town in the Landes department, perched at the mouth of the Adour river near Hossegor. It is known for its fishing harbor, long sandy beaches, and Basque influences that flavor its markets and cuisine. The town blends traditional maritime life with a vibrant surf culture, drawing visitors to seafood markets, sunsets, and pine-fringed shores.
Its promenade and harbor-side atmosphere make Capbreton feel peaceful and easy to explore on foot.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in the charming seaside town of Capbreton, where the sun kisses the sandy shores. Settle into your accommodation and take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque coastline, breathing in the fresh ocean air. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at a local café as you plan the adventures ahead.
Explore the vibrant local market, where fresh seafood and artisanal products abound. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach, savoring the flavors of the region while taking in the stunning views. Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun or indulging in some water sports.
Indulge in a seafood dinner at a beachfront restaurant, where you can taste the catch of the day. As the sun sets, take a romantic walk along the waterfront, watching the sky turn shades of pink and orange. Wind down your first day with a glass of local wine, enjoying the soothing sounds of the waves.
Start your day with an invigorating surf lesson at one of Capbreton's renowned surf schools. Feel the rush of the ocean as you ride the waves, surrounded by skilled instructors. Afterward, enjoy a hearty breakfast at a nearby café to refuel.
Spend a leisurely afternoon lounging on the beach, building sandcastles, or reading your favorite book under the sun. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the waters. Take a break at a beachside bar for a refreshing drink and light snacks.
Join a beach bonfire event if available, where you can mingle with other travelers and locals. Enjoy the warmth of the fire as you share stories or roast marshmallows under a starlit sky. Cap off your evening with a nightcap at a nearby bar, soaking in the vibrant night atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🥖Fresh croissant | $1-3 |
| 🚲Bike rental (1 day) | $15-25 |
| 🛏️1-night mid-range hotel | $90-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal scenery and beaches
- Strong seafood and Basque-Landes culture
- Compact town center and walkability
- Good access to surf and outdoor activities
- Can be crowded in summer
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Some attractions require short drives to Hossegor/Seignosse or Pilat
- "Bonjour" - Hello/Good day
- "S’il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est le marché ?" - Where is the market?
- "L’addition, s’il vous plaît" - The check, please
Places to Visit in Capbreton
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful fishing boats, busy quay, and reflections of the morning light on calm water.
Iconic lighthouse at the harbor entrance with panoramic ocean views.
Long sandy shores, surfers, and dramatic sunsets—excellent for wide-angle and action shots.
Coastal path between Capbreton and Seignosse offering cliff-top and sea panoramas.
Food in Capbreton
Capbreton Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Basque-Landes classic of peppers, tomatoes, onions, and eggs, often served with crusty bread.
Must-Try!
Buttery, almond-flavored sponge cake traditionally filled with pastry cream or cherry jam.
Thin-sliced cured ham paired with sweet melon—an ideal starter or light bite.
Fresh sardines from the Atlantic, olive oil, lemon, and herbs, often enjoyed with a salad.
locally caught fish prepared with fennel and seasonal greens.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively harbor market where locals buy seafood, cheese, produce, and regional specialties.
Casual bites from stalls along the quay and the coastal promenade, perfect for a quick lunch.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite “Bonjour” when entering a shop or restaurant is appreciated.
Respect meal times; avoid loud behavior in public spaces and places of worship.
French is the primary language; Basque influence exists in the region, but English is not universal.
Safety
Tipping in Capbreton
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is often included in larger places; otherwise, a 5-10% tip is common for good service.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted, with contactless payments common; cash and mobile wallets are also accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long, sunny days with peak beach life; crowds at the market and along the coast; water is warm enough for swimming and surf is excellent.
Milder days with Atlantic swells; great for surf culture, fewer crowds, and scenic coastal walks.
Cool and windy with occasional rain; beach access is more tranquil and the town feels authentic and quiet.
Rising temperatures and blooming pine forests; ideal for cycling, markets reopen, and wildlife along the coast becomes active.
Capbreton at Night
Hiking in Capbreton
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal trail along pine forests with sea views, ideal for day hikes.
Europe’s tallest dune; stunning panoramic views and trails nearby.
Airports
How to reach Capbreton by plane.
The closest major airport, about 30-40 minutes by car; international and domestic flights connect Capbreton to Europe.
A larger international airport about 2 hours by car; more flight options.
A smaller regional airport about 1.5-2 hours by car; limited routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Originally Basque-Landes communities with long-standing fishing and maritime traditions.
Seasonal influx of visitors attracted by beaches and surf culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A defining activity along the Atlantic coast; services and schools abound.
Common on the sandy areas during summer.
Several courses a short drive away in Lac de Hossegor/Seignosse
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Capbreton.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetable dishes and salads; ask for piperade or ratatouille. If needed, seafood can be a good protein alternative.