Top 10 Unforgettable Beaches on the French Riviera

Plage Mala – Cap d’Ail

Secluded Cove with Cliffside Luxury

Just west of Monaco lies one of the Riviera’s most exclusive yet naturally beautiful beaches: Plage Mala. Surrounded by steep limestone cliffs and Mediterranean pines, this beach delivers a striking contrast of dramatic nature and refined comfort.

The beach is partly public and partly private, with two chic beach clubs—Eden and La Réserve de la Mala—offering loungers, cocktails, and fine seafood. You’ll need to descend steep stairs or follow a coastal trail to reach it, which keeps the vibe peaceful and intimate.

💡 Insider Tip: The early morning light here is perfect for photos, and the beach remains shaded until about 11 AM due to the cliffs—ideal if you want to avoid harsh sun early in the day.

• Perfect for: Couples, photographers, luxury seekers
• Nearby: Cap d’Ail coastal path, Monaco (10 min)
• Food: On-site restaurants with sushi, Provençal cuisine
• 💶 Access: Public zone free, beach clubs €25–€60 per day

Plage de la Gravette – Antibes

Family-Friendly Urban Beach

One of the most convenient beaches on the coast, Plage de la Gravette sits right behind Antibes' ancient ramparts. You can step out from the historic Old Town directly onto its soft sands.

The beach is gently enclosed by a sea wall, which not only creates calm, shallow waters but also keeps out large waves. It’s a favorite with locals, especially families, thanks to its safety and proximity to cafés, ice cream stands, and souvenir shops.

Looking for a bite after your swim? Walk a few meters inland to find charming bistros like Le Figuier de Saint-Esprit or grab a quick snack and head back to the beach for sunset.

• Perfect for: Families, first-time visitors, swimmers
• Nearby: Picasso Museum, Marché Provençal
• Food: Countless cafés within a 5-minute walk
• 💶 Access: Completely free, no rentals needed

Plage Paloma – Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Exclusive Escape with Natural Beauty

Paloma Beach is perhaps the Riviera’s most iconic cove, nestled on the quiet eastern side of Cap-Ferrat. Named after Paloma Picasso, daughter of Pablo Picasso, who frequented the area, this beach has long drawn celebrities, artists, and those who prefer tranquility with a splash of glamour.

The private portion of the beach offers top-tier dining and cushioned loungers, while the public section provides room to lay out a towel. The surrounding cliffs help block the wind, making it a good choice on breezy days.

Snorkelers can explore the rocky seabed here, and paddleboarders enjoy calm, sheltered waters. For couples, it’s hard to beat the romantic ambiance.

• Perfect for: Couples, snorkelers, luxury travelers
• Nearby: Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, Beaulieu-sur-Mer
• Food: Paloma Beach Club (reservations recommended)
• 💶 Access: Public + Club area from €35/day

Plage de la Marinière – Villefranche-sur-Mer

Calm Family Spot with Train Access

This beach lies just steps from the Villefranche-sur-Mer train station, making it a favorite for day-trippers coming from Nice or Monaco. Unlike many pebbled beaches in the region, Plage de la Marinière offers soft sand and a wide shoreline.

The view of colorful hillside homes and fishing boats bobbing in the bay adds charm to your swim. With calm, clear water and lifeguards in the summer, it’s popular with parents and solo travelers alike.

It’s also one of the few Riviera beaches with a jellyfish net in place during high season—bonus points for peace of mind.

• Perfect for: Day-trippers, families, solo swimmers
• Nearby: Old Town, Citadelle Saint-Elme, harbor cafés
• Food: Pizza, crêpes, and seafood spots along the beach
• 💶 Access: Free; loungers and snacks nearby

Plage des Sablettes – Menton

Colorful Backdrop, Gentle Surf

Located in France’s easternmost seaside town, Sablettes Beach offers postcard views of pastel buildings climbing the hillside. The beach is wide, sandy, and shallow—ideal for small children and those who prefer a relaxed swim.

Menton’s calm ambiance extends to its beaches, where even in peak season you can find a peaceful spot. The boardwalk is lined with cafés serving everything from fresh gelato to socca (a chickpea pancake unique to the region).

Thanks to the area’s microclimate, the weather here is sunny more often than not—even when Nice is cloudy.

• Perfect for: Families, photographers, casual swimmers
• Nearby: Jean Cocteau Museum, Old Town Menton
• Food: Italian and Niçoise fusion restaurants nearby
• 💶 Access: Free beach, lounger rentals optional

Plage de Pampelonne – Ramatuelle

Saint-Tropez's Premier Beach Experience

Stretching over five kilometers, Plage de Pampelonne is the French Riviera’s most famous beach, and with good reason. Located in Ramatuelle, a short drive from Saint-Tropez, this legendary strip of sand is the epitome of Côte d’Azur glam.

Pampelonne is home to the elite Club 55 and other stylish beach clubs like Nikki Beach and Loulou, drawing everyone from Beyoncé to local artists. But don’t worry—there’s plenty of public space to stretch out a towel too.

Beyond the celebrity appeal, Pampelonne is also eco-conscious. Parts of the beach have been awarded Blue Flag status for water quality and environmental management. Kids can safely play in the fine sand while adults enjoy champagne service. You can even rent paddleboards or book a private boat from local vendors. Whether you're staying at a luxury villa or just visiting for the day, Pampelonne delivers the ultimate Riviera vibe without being pretentious.

This beach is perfect for long walks, people-watching, windsurfing, and even jet skiing. With large parking areas and summer shuttles from Saint-Tropez, access is easier than you might expect.

• Perfect for: Luxury travelers, celebrity spotters, water sports
• Nearby: Saint-Tropez port, Ramatuelle village
• Food: World-class beach restaurants (book early!)
• 💶 Access: Free + paid club zones (€40+ per lounger)

Plage du Larvotto – Monaco

Chic Urban Beach with Full Amenities

Completely renovated in recent years, Larvotto is Monaco’s only public beach—and it lives up to the principality’s polished reputation. A modern promenade, designer cafes, and shaded playgrounds line the beach, making it both practical and upscale.

What sets Larvotto apart from other city beaches is how seamlessly it blends nature and urban amenities. Palm trees offer shade, and the beach has lifeguards, security patrols, and public showers. If you're traveling with kids or older adults, you'll appreciate the smooth access paths and seating. For those who want to experience Monaco without spending a fortune, Larvotto offers a luxurious vibe for the price of a bus ticket.

The beach itself is made up of fine gravel and smooth pebbles. Waters are crystal-clear, shallow near shore, and protected from the current. The nearby restaurants range from gourmet sushi to gelato stands.

With ramps, lifts, and paved walkways, Larvotto is also one of the most accessible beaches for those with mobility challenges.

• Perfect for: Urban explorers, accessibility, stylish travelers
• Nearby: Monte-Carlo Casino, Japanese Garden, Café de Paris
• Food: High-end and casual bites on-site
• 💶 Access: Free areas + paid loungers from €25

Plage Paloma – Cap Ferrat (Romantic Edition)

Romantic Hideaway with Sunset Magic

Yes, it’s on the list twice—and deservedly so. Paloma Beach becomes a whole different experience as the sun begins to set. The cliffs glow gold, the pine trees sway, and the crowds thin out, revealing the beach’s more intimate side.

If you're planning a proposal, honeymoon, or anniversary trip, Paloma at sunset is unbeatable. Locals say the sea mirrors the sky better here than anywhere else along the coast. While it may not be as big as other beaches, its charm lies in the details—birdsong from the cliffs, the scent of wild thyme, and the sound of yachts gently rocking in the distance. Pure magic.

Couples looking for a romantic afternoon should arrive after 4 PM, when the light softens and the sea reflects hues of lavender and orange. Bring a picnic, or stay for a candlelit dinner at the beach club.

• Perfect for: Couples, engagements, golden hour photography
• Tip: Bring a blanket, a bottle of wine, and enjoy from the public area
• 💶 Access: Free beach open all day, no reservations needed

Plage du Midi – Cannes

Spacious, Relaxed, and Sunset-Friendly

Located just west of the Old Port in Cannes, Plage du Midi offers a quieter, more spacious beach experience compared to the glitzy Croisette. It’s favored by locals, families, and travelers who want to escape the crowds while still staying close to the action.

Plage du Midi is often overshadowed by Croisette beaches, but it’s a local secret for a reason. The promenade is lined with locals playing pétanque, jogging, or grabbing paninis after a swim. This beach offers a real slice of Cannes life—minus the movie stars. If you’re traveling on a budget but still want that famous Riviera experience, this is the place to be.

The beach features soft sand, calm waves, and a long promenade great for evening strolls or rollerblading. Lifeguards are present during summer, and several public showers and food stands make it easy to stay for the day.

Stay until evening and you’ll be treated to one of the best Riviera sunsets, with the Esterel mountains turning crimson in the background.

• Perfect for: Families, budget travelers, sunset lovers
• Nearby: Cannes Old Town (Le Suquet), Marché Forville
• Food: Pizza, crêpes, and beach bars within walking distance
• 💶 Access: Free beach, optional chair rentals

Plage Passable – Cap-Ferrat

Underrated Gem with Western Views

Often overlooked in favor of Paloma, Plage Passable lies on the western side of Cap-Ferrat and offers spectacular sunset views over Villefranche Bay. Surrounded by greenery and with a view of anchored yachts, it’s a lesser-known spot with real charm.

Passable’s western exposure makes it a golden hour favorite. You can watch the sun dip behind the hills while local fishermen clean their catch nearby. It’s also great for paddleboarding, thanks to the calm water. Few tourists find their way here, so even in August, it’s more peaceful than you'd expect. Bonus: the shaded trails around Cap-Ferrat make it a nice hike-and-swim destination.

The beach has both public access and a small beach restaurant offering loungers and meals. The water is warm, calm, and perfect for a late afternoon dip.

• Perfect for: Sunset seekers, solo travelers, romantic picnics
• Nearby: Villa Ephrussi gardens, walking trails
• Food: Casual restaurant with local seafood dishes
• 💶 Access: Public area free, club option around €30/day

Top Beach Tips for the French Riviera

• Arrive early: Beaches fill quickly, especially free ones.
• Pack water shoes: Many beaches have pebbles or rock shelves.
• Bring cash: Some beach clubs don't take cards or require cash for loungers.
• Respect the quiet vibe: Many Riviera beaches favor calm over party vibes—Saint-Tropez being a notable exception.
• Use local trains: TER trains link most beach towns quickly and affordably, avoiding parking stress.

Best Beach Towns to Stay in on the Riviera

Choosing where to stay along the French Riviera depends on your travel style, budget, and vibe you're chasing. Here's a quick guide to five top base towns that offer easy beach access, beautiful surroundings, and solid transportation connections:

• Nice: The region’s largest city and most affordable base. Great for nightlife, markets, pebble beaches, and day trips via train or tram. Stay near the Old Town or Promenade des Anglais for beach views.
• Antibes: A smaller, more relaxed alternative with sandy beaches, medieval walls, and a famous market. It’s ideal for families or those seeking charm with convenience.
• Villefranche-sur-Mer: This postcard-perfect bay town has colorful buildings and a crescent-shaped beach. It feels like a quiet escape but is just 10 minutes from Nice by train.
• Saint-Tropez: Best for luxury travelers and those chasing the glamour of beach clubs and yacht-filled harbors. Accommodations are pricier, and the town is less accessible by public transport.
• Menton: France’s last stop before Italy, Menton offers calm beaches, fewer tourists, and a blend of French and Italian culture. It’s perfect for couples and foodies looking for peace and sunshine.

Each of these towns offers its own version of the Riviera dream—some better for parties, others better for peace. The good news? You can’t go wrong.

When's the Best Time to Hit the Beach?

Sample Beach Itinerary

• Morning: Coffee in Antibes + swim at Plage de la Gravette
• Lunch: Waterfront meal at Paloma Beach Club
• Afternoon: Lounge in Villefranche or explore Cap Ferrat
• Evening: Sunset drinks at Plage du Midi in Cannes

Plan Your Riviera Beach Getaway

The beaches of the French Riviera offer more than just beautiful views—they're steeped in history, culture, and a lifestyle that celebrates sun, sea, and good living. Whether you're sipping rosé in Saint-Tropez or snorkeling in Cap Ferrat, there's a stretch of coastline waiting to become your next favorite memory.

From the glamorous to the peaceful, this coastline has it all. Bookmark this guide, build your own beach itinerary, and don't forget to pack your sunscreen. ☀️

Ready to plan your trip or need help booking accommodations and tours? Contact us and we’ll help you turn your beach goals into reality.