Discover the best beaches in the French Riviera, from the serene coves of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat to the glamorous sands of Cannes and Saint-Tropez. Explore our list of top seaside destinations, each offering unique beauty and charm, perfect for your next Mediterranean getaway.
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Plage Paloma
Paloma Beach is a stunning spot that offers both a public beach area and a more exclusive beach club option. The public section is perfect if you want to lay out your towel on the mix of pebbles and sand, take a dip in the crystal-clear water, or go snorkeling. For a more luxurious experience, the beach club offers lounge chairs, umbrellas, and a restaurant with delicious local cuisine. Reservations are recommended, especially in the summer, as space fills up quickly. The combination of natural beauty and comfort makes Paloma Beach a must-visit.
Plage de Passable
Plage de Passable is a charming spot on the western side of the peninsula, offering a more laid-back vibe compared to some other Riviera beaches. The beach has both pebbles and sand, with calm, shallow waters that are perfect for swimming or paddleboarding. What makes it special is the stunning view of Villefranche Bay, especially at sunset. There’s also a beach club where you can rent sunbeds, enjoy drinks, and have lunch or dinner. With any beach in the French Riviera reservations are a good idea, especially during the busy summer months, as the space fills up quickly. Whether you’re looking to relax on the public section or indulge a bit at the club, Passable offers a peaceful and scenic escape.
Plage des Fosses
Fosses Beach in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is a serene spot that’s perfect for a day of relaxation by the sea. The beach has a mix of pebbles and sand, with incredibly clear waters that are ideal for swimming and snorkeling. One of the unique features of Fosses Beach is its unspoiled natural beauty, with a peaceful atmosphere that’s great for unwinding. While there’s no beach club here, the lack of commercial facilities allows you to fully appreciate the tranquil surroundings and stunning views of the Mediterranean. It's a spot where you can bring a picnic, enjoy the calm waters, and take in the scenic beauty of the area.
Antibes
Plage de la Garoupe
Plage de la Garoupe in Antibes is one of those beaches that feels like a slice of paradise. The sand is soft, and the water is that perfect shade of turquoise that you see in postcards. The beach is a mix of public and private areas, with some sections reserved for the beach clubs that line the shore. If you're looking to splurge, renting a sunbed at one of these clubs is worth it, but the public areas are just as lovely. Go early if you want a good spot, as it can get busy, especially in the summer. The atmosphere is a blend of laid-back and upscale, making it perfect for a day of relaxing by the sea. And if you’re up for a walk, the Cap d'Antibes coastal path starts nearby, offering stunning views of the coastline.
Plage de la Gravette
Plage de la Gravette in Antibes is a popular, family-friendly beach located right at the edge of the old town, making it easily accessible. The beach is sandy and well-sheltered, with calm, shallow waters that are perfect for swimming. It’s a favorite for both locals and visitors, especially families, due to its convenient location and safe swimming conditions. Amenities include showers, restrooms, and nearby cafes where you can grab a bite. The beach offers beautiful views of the old town, creating a picturesque setting for a relaxing day by the sea.
Saint-Tropez
Pampelonne Beach
Pampelonne Beach in Saint-Tropez is one of the most iconic spots on the French Riviera. This stunning, 5-kilometer stretch of golden sand is lined with some of the most famous beach clubs, like Club 55, where you can rent sunbeds, enjoy fine dining, and soak up the glamorous atmosphere. The beach itself has clear, shallow waters, perfect for swimming. It’s a great mix of luxury and natural beauty, but it can get crowded, so it’s best to make reservations at a beach club if you want to secure a prime spot.
If you prefer to avoid the high-end frills, the public areas of Pampelonne Beach still offer the same stunning views and clear waters, but they can be quite busy. The atmosphere in the public sections is lively and energetic, with plenty of families and groups enjoying the sun and sea. It’s not necessarily more relaxed, but it’s a great option if you want to experience Pampelonne without the cost of the beach clubs. Just be prepared for a bustling scene! Parking near the public areas of Pampelonne Beach can be a bit tricky, especially during peak season, as it gets very busy. There are designated parking lots, but they tend to fill up quickly, so it’s best to arrive early in the day to secure a spot.
Tahiti Beach
Tahiti Beach in Saint-Tropez is a bit of a legend on the Riviera. Located at the northern end of Pampelonne, it has that classic Saint-Tropez vibe—luxurious yet laid-back. The beach itself has beautiful golden sand and clear, inviting waters. It’s dotted with chic beach clubs, but it also has public areas where you can relax without breaking the bank. The atmosphere here is vibrant, especially in the summer, with a mix of locals and international visitors. Parking can be a bit tricky, so arriving early is a good idea, especially if you want to grab a good spot. Whether you're there for the sun, the scene, or a bit of both, Tahiti Beach is quintessential Saint-Tropez.
Plage de la Bouillabaisse
Plage de la Bouillabaisse is a popular and busy beach located right at the entrance of Saint-Tropez, making it a convenient choice if you’re staying in town. The beach offers soft sand and calm waters with beautiful views of the bay. It's a lively spot, attracting both locals and tourists. The beach is lined with several beachfront restaurants, perfect for grabbing a meal or a drink with a view. Because of its location and amenities, it can get crowded, so it’s best to arrive early to find a good spot.
Cannes
Plage de la Croisette
Plage de la Croisette is one of Cannes' most famous and glamorous beaches, located right along the iconic Boulevard de la Croisette. It’s a mix of public and private sections, with many luxury hotels having their own private beach clubs. The sand is soft, and the waters are clear, perfect for a swim or just lounging under an umbrella. During peak season, the beach can get quite crowded, especially near the private clubs, so it’s a good idea to reserve a spot if you want a more comfortable experience. The public sections are just as beautiful, but they fill up fast, so arriving early is key. The atmosphere here is lively and upscale, with plenty of people-watching opportunities. It’s a must-visit if you want to experience the quintessential Cannes beach vibe.
Plage du Midi
Plage du Midi is a more laid-back alternative to the bustling beaches along La Croisette, though it’s still quite popular. Located west of the town center, it offers a long stretch of sand with beautiful views of the Esterel Mountains. The vibe is more casual, attracting a mix of locals and tourists. You’ll find both public areas and private beach clubs here. While it can get busy, the atmosphere remains more relaxed compared to the heart of Cannes.
Cap d’Ail
Plage de la Mala
Plage de la Mala in Cap d’Ail is a stunning beach with a mix of pebbles and coarse sand, nestled beneath steep cliffs. Accessing the beach involves a steep walk down, and there’s no direct parking at the beach, so be prepared for a bit of a hike from the nearest parking area. The beach features both public and private sections, with the beach clubs offering sunbeds, food, and drinks—though these can be pricey. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, but it does get crowded, especially in the summer. Arriving early is recommended to secure a good spot.
Villefranche-sur-Mer
Plage des Marinières
Plage des Marinières in Villefranche-sur-Mer is a beautiful stretch of beach that offers a bit of everything, making it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. The sand is a mix of fine grains and small pebbles, and the water is typically calm and incredibly clear—ideal for swimming and even snorkeling along the rocky edges. What’s particularly cool about this beach is that it’s right next to the train station, so you can easily hop off the train and be on the beach in minutes. The surrounding bay is stunning, with boats gently bobbing in the water and the colorful town rising up behind you. The vibe here is laid-back, but it does get busy in the summer, so I’d recommend getting there early if you want a prime spot. There are a few low-key cafes nearby for snacks, but you might want to bring your own picnic if you’re planning to stay all day. The view of the sunset from this beach is spectacular, so if you can, stick around until dusk!
Plage de l’Ange Gardien
Plage de l’Ange Gardien offers a peaceful and relaxed beach experience, ideal if you’re looking to escape the busier spots. This small beach has a mix of sand and pebbles, with calm, clear waters that are perfect for swimming. The atmosphere is laid-back, and it’s usually less crowded, especially outside peak hours. There are no beach clubs, so it’s more of a bring-your-own-towel-and-picnic kind of place. The views across the bay are stunning, making it a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty.
Cassis
Calanque d’En-Vau
Calanque d’En-Vau is one of those breathtaking spots that feels almost otherworldly. This calanque is famous for its dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear turquoise waters, making it a paradise for nature lovers. To get there, you’ll need to be up for an adventure—either a challenging hike or a boat ride from the port in Cassis. The hike can be tough, but the reward is worth it. Once you arrive, you’re greeted by a narrow beach surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, offering some of the best scenery on the French Riviera. It’s a popular spot for rock climbing and snorkeling, thanks to the rich marine life in the waters. The beach is pebbly, so bring appropriate footwear, and it’s a good idea to pack your own food and water, as there are no facilities here. If you’re visiting during peak season, try to get there early to beat the crowds and enjoy this natural wonder in peace.
Menton
Plage des Sablettes
Plage des Sablettes in Menton is a beautiful sandy beach that offers a perfect mix of relaxation and stunning views. Located at the foot of Menton’s old town, the beach is framed by colorful buildings and the backdrop of the Alps, creating a picturesque setting. The sand is soft, and the water is usually calm, making it ideal for swimming. It’s a great spot for families, thanks to its gentle shoreline and playground nearby. The promenade along the beach is lined with cafes and restaurants, so you can easily grab a bite while enjoying the sea breeze. One interesting fact is that you can see both France and Italy from this beach, adding to its unique charm.
Hyères
Plage de l'Almanarre
Plage de l'Almanarre in Hyères is one of those beaches that offers something for everyone, but it’s especially loved by windsurfers and kiteboarders. The beach stretches for about 5 kilometers along the Giens Peninsula, providing plenty of space to find your own spot, whether you’re looking to sunbathe, swim, or try out water sports. The wind conditions here are often perfect for windsurfing, thanks to the Mistral wind. The beach itself is a mix of sand and pebbles, and the shallow, clear waters make it great for families too. One interesting fact is that this beach is part of a protected natural area, so you’ll be surrounded by beautiful, unspoiled nature, with the occasional flamingo sighting in the nearby salt flats!
Îles de Lérins
The Îles de Lérins, located off the coast of Cannes, are home to several beautiful beaches that offer a more secluded and natural experience compared to the mainland. The main islands, Île Sainte-Marguerite and Île Saint-Honorat, both feature pristine, rocky beaches with clear, turquoise waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The beaches are less crowded and more peaceful, surrounded by pine forests and offering stunning views of the Mediterranean. There are no large beach clubs, so the vibe is more relaxed and natural, perfect for a quiet day trip.
Ramatuelle
Plage de l'Escalet
Escalet Beach, located near Saint-Tropez, is a beautiful, lesser-known gem on the French Riviera. It offers a more natural and unspoiled beach experience compared to the busier spots in Saint-Tropez. The beach has a mix of sand and rocks, with clear turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The surrounding landscape is stunning, with rocky coves and trails that are great for exploring. It’s a popular spot with locals and those looking to escape the crowds, offering a peaceful and scenic retreat by the sea.
Cap Taillat
Cap Taillat is a stunning natural headland located near Ramatuelle, accessible by a scenic coastal hike from Plage de l'Escalet. This protected area offers some of the most unspoiled and breathtaking views on the French Riviera. The hike takes you through rugged terrain, with panoramic vistas of the turquoise Mediterranean waters on one side and lush vegetation on the other. Once you reach Cap Taillat, you’ll find secluded, pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters, perfect for a quiet swim or snorkeling. The area is a haven for nature lovers, offering a peaceful escape from the busier beaches in the region. Keep in mind that there are no facilities here, so it’s best to bring your own supplies for a day of exploration and relaxation.
Monaco
Larvotto Beach
Larvotto Beach in Monaco is the principality's most popular and well-known beach, offering a mix of luxury and accessibility. The beach is man-made, with soft, imported sand and clear, calm waters protected by breakwaters, making it ideal for swimming. It’s a great spot to relax with views of Monaco’s skyline and the Mediterranean. The beach is lined with upscale beach clubs, restaurants, and cafes, providing plenty of options for dining and refreshments. Interestingly, it’s also eco-friendly, with efforts in place to protect the local marine life. Being in Monaco, it can get busy, especially during the summer, but it’s a must-visit if you’re looking to experience the Riviera’s glamorous beach scene.
