Summary
Flashy, vibrant St. Tropez, alongside Nice, Cannes, and Monte-Carlo, forms a captivating stretch of the French Riviera that has captivated the international jet set for decades. However, amid the bustling crowds of July and August, one can discover hidden beaches that offer a serene escape. Quaint villages like Villefranche-sur-Mer cling to the picturesque coastline, while others feature gently sloping sandy beaches that merge seamlessly into the stunning azure blue Mediterranean Sea. The French Riviera gracefully concludes at the charming town of Menton.
Saint-Tropez
Address: 43 Bd Patch, 83350 Ramatuelle, France
Phone: +33 4 94 55 55 55
Saint-Tropez evokes images of sunbathers lounging on blue-and-white striped sun loungers, luxurious yachts, and the world’s elite. Although the town has mellowed since the glamorous days of Brigitte Bardot, it continues to shine brightly on the French Riviera. The iconic Plage de Pampelonne is the quintessential beach, yet it can be overwhelmingly crowded in peak summer. Among the 27 private beach clubs, public stretches of sand await those looking for a quieter experience. For a taste of local flavor, consider walking the scenic 7-mile trail, le Sentier du Littoral, which reveals smaller, less crowded beaches like Plage Graviers and Plage des Salins.
Sainte-Maxime
Address: 83120 Sainte-Maxime, France
Just minutes away from glamorous St. Tropez, Sainte-Maxime offers a more relaxed atmosphere. Stretching 11 km along the Mediterranean coast, it boasts 5 km of soft sandy beaches. This delightful resort town is easily accessible from Nice, Cannes, and the revitalized city of Marseille. For a change of scenery, visit the nearby islands of Porquerolles or the tranquil Islands of Lerins, known for the legend of the Man in the Iron Mask. Alternatively, consider renting a yacht to find a secluded beach of your own.
Plage de l’Estagnol, Bormes-les-Mimosas
Address: Plage de l’Estagnol, France
Located just three miles south of Bormes-les-Mimosas, this gem of a beach, hidden from view, arcs around the bay in a stunning display of nature. It’s a popular retreat for high-profile guests, including French Presidents, adding to its allure.
Plage de la Garoupe, Cap d’Antibes
Address: Plage de la Garoupe, 06160 Antibes, France
Plage de la Garoupe, nestled just outside the charming town of Antibes, attracts both locals and tourists during the summer season. The warm waters and breathtaking scenery create an ideal beach day. Don’t forget to stop by Chez Jozy, a beach stand, which serves delicious pan bagna and excellent pommes frites. Along the hillside, admire lavish villas, including one owned by Roman Abramovich, providing a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the rich.
Villefranche-sur-Mer
Address: 06230 Villefranche-sur-Mer, France
A short distance from Nice, Villefranche-sur-Mer is a serene alternative to its bustling neighbor. Rather than heading to the main sandy beach, consider visiting the charming pebble beach of plage de Passable. Here, visitors can rent sun loungers for a comfortable experience, surrounded by opulent villas and rich local history. The nearby Cap Ferrat offers well-kept public paths for scenic strolls around the picturesque bay.
Paloma Plage, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Address: 1 Chem. de Saint-Hospice, 06230 Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, France
Cap Ferrat is renowned as one of Europe’s wealthiest enclaves, where exquisite properties like the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild offer stunning vistas. At Paloma Beach, locals mingle at the beach club, with a public area for visitors. For comfort on the rocky shore, sunbeds can be rented, and the surrounding area offers scenic trails like the Sentier Edmund Davis.
Menton, Cote d’Azur
Address: 06500 Menton, France
Menton, located just before the Italian border, is known for its beautiful gardens and luscious lemon groves. The charming harbor and pebbled beaches make it an attractive sunbathing spot. If visiting in February, don’t miss the vibrant Lemon Festival that showcases the town’s rich cultural heritage.
