Biarritz vs. San Jean de Luz
 

A girlfriend and I in our early twenties are looking to rent a house either outside/in Biarritz or San Jean de Luz for a fun beach vacation, lasting 3 weeks. Is San Jean de Luz going to be a little too lowkey and small, as compared to Biarritz? A lot more to do in one over the other in terms of entertainment and restaurants/bars? I'm just trying to get a sense of the vibe of each city...

We just visited both recently, also san Sebastián across the border. Yes, I would say SJdL would be more lowkey and family-oriented than Biarritz. It is smaller and prettier.

For people in their twenties I think san Sebastián would be a far better bet than either of the French towns. Better value too. It's only 45 minutes or so from Biarritz airport.

There is very good and convenient train and bus service up and down the coast in this region so seeing all the places mentioned is easy and convenient and not that time consuming to get from one place to another. I think San Sebastian is the prettiest and liveliest of the three places mentioned but I doubt you'll be disappointed in any of these choices. All have good beaches. Between Saint-Jean-de-Luz and Hendaye there are some great coastal trails (called the littoral) on cliff tops and you'll always pass by protected little beaches in coves that you can walk down to. You should spend some time looking at the tourist office websites to learn more:

http://www.saint-jean-de-luz.co.uk/

http://www.biarritz.fr/Website/site/tourisme_en.php

http://www.sansebastianturismo.com/t...=T&doc=Canal#1

If we are not looking for a beach scene is there anything to do in Biarritz and SanSeb? I heard it is beautiful but anything to do besides surfing and laying on the beach?

Yes. EAT!! Best food in Europe. And some of the most expensive places, but there is great food at reasonable prices.