20 best beaches in Provence

Almanarre Beach, often simply referred to as Almanarre, is a beach beloved by surfers and extreme sports enthusiasts. Visitors will find several amenities, including multiple toilets, a quaint food truck, and a recreation center where individuals can rehabilitate from injuries through the aid of water sports. However, Almanarre Beach is not solely a haven for the adventurous; it also welcomes couples seeking a serene retreat. Here, partners can revel in each other's company within an intimate setting, breathe in the pristine air, and delight in a picturesque picnic by the sea.

Gravette Beach (La Gravette) – the most beautiful among Antibes' public beaches. Pristine white sands stretch out behind the ramparts of the Old Port, nestled almost in the heart of the city. The luminescent waters of the bay, shielded by a jetty, ensure that it is perpetually calm and bathed in sunshine.

Île Sainte Marguerite, part of the Lérins Islands archipelago off the coast of Cannes, offers a serene escape into nature. Unlike its sister island, Île Saint-Honorat, which is smaller and rockier, appealing mainly to divers, Île Sainte Marguerite boasts inviting beaches. These shores, while untamed and rugged, are a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts seeking tranquility away from the bustling mainland.

Nestled within a nature reserve, Calanques de Maupas (Les Calanques de Maupas) is a stunning rocky beach embraced by lush forests, warm-hued cliffs, and majestic reefs that rise from the azure depths of the sea. This hidden gem offers a serene escape for those seeking to bask in the beauty of France's Mediterranean coastline.

Calanques de Cassis (Les Calanques de Cassis) ranks among the most stunning beaches in Provence. The beach is ensconced by majestic mountains, dense forests, and picturesque buildings, creating a scene that captivates the senses. Adjacent to the beach lies a significant dock, where luxury yachts gracefully anchor within the rocky embrace of the bay. This already breathtaking vista is further enhanced by the bright blue hues of the sea, the pristine sands of the beach, and the dramatic rise of the steep terrain.

There are not many wild beaches on the Côte d'Azur, but the wildest among them is La Réserve Beach! This beach is nestled on the rocks, far from the bustling quays teeming with clubs, restaurants, and luxury hotels. Yet, each year, it somehow attracts an increasing number of tourists. Moreover, a retreat to this beach is ideal for those looking to save a bit, if such a term can even be applied to the luxurious French Riviera.

La Salis Beach buzzes with energy from dawn to dusk during the summer months. The air resonates with the pulsating beats of loud music while sun-kissed bodies dive into spirited games of volleyball. Vacationers indulge in delectable French pastries, enjoying picnics right on the sand. This common sight has a practical reason – purchasing food on the beaches of the Côte d'Azur can be exorbitantly expensive. It is far more economical to bring your own provisions. In winter, the beach is touted as the sunniest and warmest spot, at least within the confines of the local climate.

La Garoupe, the most renowned beach to the east of Cap d'Antibes, boasts a unique charm with its fine sands and exclusive private areas. In certain spots, the sand gracefully mingles with pebbles, adding to the beach's natural allure. Nestled in the northeast of the French Riviera's coast, La Garoupe bathes in a gentle, soothing sun, offering a more comfortable ambiance. Once a secluded haven, this beach has transformed into an idyllic destination for those seeking a tranquil yet glamorous getaway.

The splendor and luxury of the social life on the Côte d'Azur amaze even the most sophisticated tourists, but after a few days, these can begin to tire and even weigh one down. Escaping from the pathos and noise of Nice or Saint-Tropez, one often yearns for a quiet place hidden from prying eyes. The Côte d'Azur has just the spot to offer you – Mala Beach, nestled in the vicinity of Cap-d'Ail.

Marinières Beach (Plage des Marinières) extends gracefully along approximately 1 kilometer in the serene Bay of Villefranche. To the right, the picturesque town of Villefranche-sur-Mer stands proudly, while to the left, the beach is embraced by a lush, wooded hill. Towering cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop. The east winds, which often stir up turmoil elsewhere, are mercifully kept at bay here. The harbor's weather is perpetually favorable, ensuring that visitors can bask in the sun's warmth undisturbed. However, during the summer months, a protective barrier is thoughtfully erected to shield swimmers from the occasional jellyfish, ensuring a tranquil and safe experience for all.

Discover the enchanting Menton Beach, a 1.5 km stretch of sandy bliss nestled in the heart of the city that shares its name. Renowned for its gentle gradient, the beach boasts crystal-clear waters and a serene atmosphere with scarcely a wave in sight. Visitors can indulge in a variety of culinary delights at three on-site restaurants and convenient food courts. Ample dressing rooms and state-of-the-art toilets ensure a comfortable experience. Just a stone's throw away, you'll find a supermarket, currency exchange services, and a bus stop, making your beach vacation in Menton as relaxing as the gentle Mediterranean breeze.

Midi Beach, nestled in the bustling commercial district of Cannes just beyond the Old Port, offers an elegant stretch of sandy shores that underwent a stunning renovation in April 2014. Here, you'll find the prices to be more affordable compared to the upscale Croisette beaches. During the summer months, be prepared for the parking areas to brim with the vehicles of both locals and visitors alike, all drawn to this charming seaside retreat.

Paloma Beach, nestled on the Cape of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat in the Alpes-Maritimes, offers a serene escape from the bustling thoroughfares. With its aristocratic charm, Cap-Ferrat exudes a more noble and refined atmosphere compared to other resorts. The setting of Paloma Beach evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of the leisurely lifestyle of the 1960s: quaint narrow streets lined with timeless houses, rustic wooden platforms, and boats gently bobbing in the water. Here, attentive waiters add to the comfort of this luxurious yet understated haven, free from the ostentatious glamour and pretense often found elsewhere.

Pampelonne is renowned as the finest beach on the Côte d'Azur. Situated approximately 5 km from Saint-Tropez, this beach boasts a sprawling expanse of fine white sand that strikingly contrasts with the azure hues of the sea. Its rise to fame began in the nineteenth century, and it enjoyed a resurgence in popularity between the 1940s and 1950s, thanks to icons such as Juliette Gréco, Jean-Paul Sartre, Pablo Picasso, and the emblem of French cinema - Brigitte Bardot - along with other celebrities.

La Petite Afrique Beach, a serene blend of sandy and pebbly shores, is cradled by the azure sea, lush palm trees, pristine white cliffs, and charming houses. Nestled in a secluded bay, it offers a tranquil retreat, shielded from the capricious winds and waves. The beach is well-appointed with facilities, including restrooms, a parking area, a stunning restaurant, and a prestigious hotel, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay.