The French Riviera is full of magnificent beaches that make it live up to its name.
From Menton to Cannes via Nice, an exceptional coastline develops, attracting many tourists from all over the world.
The French Riviera is full of magnificent beaches that make it live up to its name. These are places of worship for lovers of the sea and the good life. Here is a list of these little corners of paradise.
PLAGE DES SABLETTES IN MENTON
Between the Old Port and Port de Garavan, along the old town, the Plage des Sablettes, with its 350 meters of fine gravel, offers an exceptional view of the Italian mountains and the sublime colorful houses of Menton. Public beach or private beach, one is spoiled for choice. You can also take advantage of the new facilities on the Esplanade des Sablettes: pergolas, sports facilities and, of course, the brand new restaurants and bars recently opened under the vaults.
PLAGE DE LA MALA AT CAP D’AIL
The Plage de la Mala, in Cap d’Ail, is breathtaking, surrounded by cliffs that plunge into a sea of turquoise waters. The beach can be reached via the steps next to the famous “Eden Palace”-over 100 steps await you-or via the coastal path from Gramaglia Cove.
PLAGE OF THE PETITE AFRIQUE IN BEAULIEU-SUR-MER
Sheltered by large umbrella pines, La Petite Afrique is a true oasis of peace at the exit of Beaulieu-sur-Mer, in the direction of Eze and Monaco. There is also a playground set up for children under the umbrella pines. This beach is also perfect for evening picnics. Parking is available in the parking lot at the Port of Beaulieu-sur-Mer.
PLAGE PASSABLE DE SAINT-JEAN-CAP-FERRAT
Lulled by the gentle lapping of the waves, the quiet little cove of Passable offers a sumptuous view of the famous bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer and its Citadel. In addition to the magnificent view, this beach offers shelter from the wind. A private beach, restaurant, and snack bar are available on site.
PLAGE DE LA RESERVE IN NICE
In addition to the well-known pebble beaches of the Promenade des Anglais and the Quai des Etats-Unis, there is the Plage de La Réserve, located on Boulevard Franck Pilatte. This emblematic Nice beach is primarily the haunt of regulars and locals. A little further on, after passing the Plongeoir and Restaurant de la Réserve, one can also enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean by diving from the small coves or rocks of the promenade. Here you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Nice and its Baie des Anges.
PLAGE DE LA GRAVETTE IN ANTIBES
Located between Old Antibes and the port of Vauban, this wide beach of fine sand is surrounded by magnificent stone ramparts that protect it. Plage de La Gravette is ideal for families because of its proximity to the town center and its distance from the road. For lunch, the easiest way is to head to Vieil-Antibes, a few minutes’ walk away, where there are numerous bars and restaurants. There are several paid parking lots nearby.
PLAGE DE LA GAROUPE IN ANTIBES
Named for the lighthouse overlooking the Cap d’Antibes, the Plage de La Garoupe is known for its crystal clear waters. A great place to have lunch or dinner overlooking the sea. This beach is also the starting point of the coastal path, better known as the Cap d’Antibes trail.
PLAGE DU MIDI IN CANNES
Less crowded than the Plage de la Croisette, the Plage du Midi is located after the port of Cannes and extends to Mandelieu-La-Napoule. This beach offers breathtaking views of the Estérel massif and the Lérins Islands. There you will find many private beaches and a beach volleyball court. For those who want to train overlooking the sea, many sports facilities are available at “BoccaCabana.”
PLAGE DU CHÂTEAU A MANDELIEU
In the shadow of the magnificent Château de la Napoule overlooking the sea, this quiet sandy beach also connects the pretty coastal path to Théoule-sur-Mer. In summer, the chateau provides shade, which is much appreciated. For those who want privacy, just follow the coastal path and discover the secret beach located just behind the castle.
PLAGE DE LA POINTE DE L’AIGUILLE AT THÉOULE-SUR-MER
Nestled in a small turquoise bay in the heart of the Pointe de l’Aiguille Natural Park, this beautiful Côte d’Azur beach is the result of lava flow erosion millions of years ago. As you descend the stone steps, you discover a magnificent corner with heavenly waters. It is an ideal place to practice diving. An underwater discovery trail along Pointe de l’Aiguille beach is accessible from mid-June to mid-September.
PLAGE DES ANGLAIS IN AGAY
In the Plage des Anglais, also known as Calanque des Anglais, there is no sand, but red pebbles that give this beautiful Côte d’Azur beach an exceptional charm! This beach consists of three other pretty adjacent coves that can be accessed on foot.
PLAGE DE PAMPELONNE AT RAMATUELLE
With its 5 kilometers of fine sand and crystal clear waters, Pampelonne is the most famous beach on the Saint-Tropez Peninsula and the French Riviera. It is divided into 5 areas: the Mills, the Tamaris, Patch, the Barraques and Bonne Terrasse. There is parking in each of these areas (for a fee in summer). Numerous private beaches and restaurants line the beach with jet ski rentals available to appreciate the beauty of Pampelonne from the Mediterranean.
PLAGE DE CAVALIERE AT LAVANDOU
Lavandou is famous for its twelve fine sandy beaches that line the coast from the center of the village to Pramousquier. Among these magnificent beaches is the Plage de Cavalière. Surrounded by pine trees, a variety of activities can be enjoyed at this beach: sailing, jet skiing, or pedal boats.
PLAGE DE L’ESTAGNOL AT BORMES LES MIMOSAS
Located in Bormes-les-Mimosas, the Plage de l’Estagnol is also known by its nickname “Tahiti Provençal.” Arriving at this Côte d’Azur beach, one cannot fail to be enchanted by the charm of its lagoon with turquoise waters reminiscent of French Polynesia. This beach is almost 500 meters long and is surrounded by a shady pine forest.