The Most Beautiful Beaches on the French Riviera

Palm-lined promenades, chic beach clubs where celebrities mingle, azure waters that gave the region its renowned name, and white sand – on the French Riviera, vacation dreams come true. Days fly by here with water sports, people-watching, and shopping. However, the most beautiful beaches on the Côte d'Azur are not just the bustling stretches with celebrity crowds; you can also find quiet gems. This list will give you an overview of the paradise beaches on France’s Mediterranean coast.

Saint-Tropez: Plage de Pampelonne

One of the most famous beaches on the Côte d'Azur is Plage de Pampelonne in the legendary celebrity hotspot of Saint-Tropez. Stars like George Clooney and Leonardo DiCaprio can often be seen cruising along the coast on their luxury yachts. However, with a bit of luck, you may also spot a celebrity at trendy clubs like Niki Beach, La Voile Rouge, or Club 55. Or you can pass the time with kite surfing or jet skiing. If you'd like to enjoy the view of the azure sea with fewer people around, consider visiting during the off-season.

Plage de Pampelonne

Cannes: Beach at Boulevard de la Croisette

Cannes is famous for its film festival, which takes place at the renowned Palais des Festivals. Not far from here, you’ll find one of the most beautiful beaches of this charming city, located right along the 3 km long Boulevard de la Croisette, where upscale boutiques tempt you to shop. Tall palm trees and lovingly cultivated gardens enchant visitors, just like the white sand.

Nice: City Beach

Nice's city beach is one of the most visited beaches on the Côte d'Azur, attracting especially those who love the historical charm of this elegant coastal town. With grand buildings in the background and the turquoise sea stretching to the horizon, it's easy to overlook the mostly rocky beach. The glamorous Promenade des Anglais invites you for a stroll, and in many cafes and restaurants, you can indulge in culinary delights. The beach is also perfect for breaks between sightseeing: art lovers can visit the Marc Chagall Museum or the Musée Matisse.

Nice City Beach

Saint-Raphaël: Calanque des Anglais

Another almost untouched natural spectacle awaits near the town of Saint-Raphaël at the Calanque des Anglais. What makes this sheltered bay special are the red rocks lining the pebble beach. The deep blue water is perfect for a refreshing swim or snorkeling.

Cassis: Calanque d'en-Vau

The rugged inlets in the coast of the Côte d'Azur, known as Calanques, are particularly attractive to nature lovers. The Calanque d'en-Vau near Cassis is often considered the most beautiful of them all. It can be reached by hiking or by boat. Either way, the journey is worth it because this peaceful white sand beach, framed by towering cliffs, looks like something out of a storybook. A swim in the crystal-clear bay is undoubtedly one of the highlights of your vacation.

Calanque d'en-Vau

Antibes: Plage de Salis

With well-developed infrastructure, including lifeguards, restaurants, and changing rooms, this beach is a popular destination for families. However, culture lovers also appreciate the urban beach experience here – while sunbathing or swimming, they can enjoy a view of the picturesque old town of Antibes. Visit landmarks such as the historic Fort Carré or the Picasso Museum.

Porquerolles: Plage de Notre-Dame

In addition to Plage d'Argent, Plage de Notre-Dame is one of the popular beach sections on the idyllic Mediterranean island of Porquerolles. Located off the coast of Hyères, this island is a must-see on the Côte d'Azur. The dream beach regularly ranks in European listings, and yet there are fewer visitors compared to the mainland, allowing you to relax in peace. The island’s many pine trees exude their typical scent and provide shade for those seeking rest. The typical scene here includes sailboats rocking on the emerald-green water.

Plage de Notre-Dame

Théoule-sur-Mer: Pointe de l’Aiguille

Located just next to Cannes in front of the Îles de Lérins, the beautiful Pointe de l’Aiguille awaits. This pristine beach, surrounded by pine trees, is framed by the rocks of the Estérel mountain range, offering a spectacular setting for your day at the beach. Bring your snorkel gear and search for dorado fish, crabs, or rock fish at the seabed. You can also take a short walk along the Corniche d'Or and hike through the surrounding nature park, Parc de l'Aiguille.

Hyères: Plage de l'Almanarre

A dream for water sports enthusiasts can be found in the city of Hyères at Plage de l'Almanarre. This beach is a hotspot on the Côte d'Azur for windsurfers, fun surfers, and kite surfers. The water deepens quickly, providing great waves for active vacationers. At the southern end of the sand and pebble beach, there is a shallow section that is considered particularly family-friendly.

Plage de l'Almanarre

Cap d’Ail: Plage Mala

Not far from the center of Monaco, you’ll find this hidden gem on the Côte d'Azur – a small path leads to the secluded bay of Cap d'Ail. The effort to reach it is rewarded with a spectacular view of the bay. It's best to bring a picnic or treat yourself to a meal at one of the two upscale restaurants.