

Best for beginner divers, 2-18m, boat entry, mild current.
Grotte à Balou is a reef and cave site located off the coast of Hendaye, France. Suitable for beginners, the site features depths ranging from 2 to 18 metres with an average depth of 9 metres. Divers experience mild currents and visibility typically between 10 and 15 metres. Access is strictly by boat, and divers must remain vigilant regarding boat traffic. It is essential to use a surface marker buoy and stay close to the dive boat during ascents to ensure visibility to passing vessels. Typical dives last approximately 50 minutes. Parking is available at the launch point for those arriving by vehicle.
43.40670, -1.66140
Boat traffic is the main hazard here, so stay close to your dive guide during ascents and deploy your surface marker buoy before you start coming up. Parking is available at the launch point, so arriving early gives you more options before other boat traffic picks up.
Access info coming soon
Recorded nearby, within 20km
Depth
Up to 18m
Visibility
10-15m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
12-21°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
50 min
Yes, the site is suitable for beginners, offering a varied reef and cave environment with mild currents.
The site ranges from 2 to 18 metres in depth, with an average depth of 9 metres.
Access is by boat only. Divers should use a surface marker buoy and remain close to the boat during ascents due to local boat traffic.
The primary hazard is boat traffic. Divers must maintain high awareness when surfacing, stay close to the dive boat, and use a surface marker buoy at all times.
Diving at Grotte à Balou in Saint-Jean-de-Luz requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 7mm wetsuit or semi-dry is recommended for diving at Grotte à Balou in Saint-Jean-de-Luz. Water temperatures range from 12°C to 21°C.
Grotte à Balou in Saint-Jean-de-Luz typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Grotte à Balou in Saint-Jean-de-Luz typically ranges from 10 metres to 15 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.