French Riviera Beaches: Your Guide To The Most Glamorous Coastal Escapes

Discover stunning French Riviera Beaches along the Mediterranean coastline, France

Escape to the breathtaking French Riviera, where turquoise waters, powdery white sand, and picturesque villages create the ultimate beach lover’s paradise. The French Riviera beaches, renowned for their glamour and natural beauty, stretch along the sun-kissed Mediterranean coast. From the iconic Promenade de la Croisette in Cannes to the secluded coves of Saint-Tropez, each beach offers a unique blend of luxury, tranquillity, and joie de vivre. Uncovering hidden gems, and local favorites that will make your next getaway truly unforgettable.

9 Best French Riviera Beaches

Escape to French Riviera beaches, where the Mediterranean coast meets elegance, serenity, and stunning natural beauty, inviting you to unwind and soak up the sun.

1. Paloma Beach

Paloma Beach: Hidden gem among French Riviera beaches, crystal waters

Photo: Leeloo The First / Pexels

Paloma Beach, nestled on the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula, is a charming French Riviera gem with turquoise waters, pebbly sands, and stunning coastal views. It’s a must-see for a peaceful escape. Paloma Beach is a quiet retreat known for its beautiful azure waters and dramatic cliffs. It’s a favourite among locals and travellers who seek a secluded beach experience. With its stunning natural beauty, it’s a perfect spot for relaxing or snorkelling. The beach offers a small restaurant and basic facilities, providing both convenience and a taste of French Riviera charm.

Distance From French Riviera: 10 km from Nice
Location: Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Nearest Airport: Nice Côte d’Azur Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Beaulieu-sur-Mer
Best Time To Visit: May to September

2. Promenade de la Croisette, Cannes

Promenade de la Croisette, iconic French Riviera beachfront, Cannes glamour

Photo: Alexander Migl / Wikimedia Commons

Promenade de la Croisette offers a lively beach experience along a scenic boulevard, ideal for beachgoers and shoppers alike in Cannes’ glamorous setting. This beach blends the charm of a scenic seaside with the energy of Cannes. Known for its sandy shoreline and fashionable atmosphere, Promenade de la Croisette attracts sunbathers and tourists looking to experience the luxurious side of the French Riviera. Alongside the beach, the promenade is lined with designer boutiques, cafes, and iconic hotels.

Distance From French Riviera: Central Cannes
Location: Cannes
Nearest Airport: Nice Côte d’Azur Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Cannes Station
Best Time To Visit: May to October

3. Villefranche-sur-Mer Beach

Discover Villefranche-sur-Mer Beach's charming bay and crystal-clear waters

Photo: Shaunwiltshire / Wikimedia Commons

Villefranche-sur-Mer Beach, with its scenic setting and crystal-clear waters, offers an intimate retreat on the French Riviera perfect for beach lovers. This beach features soft, sandy shores and calm, inviting waters. Its charming village backdrop and panoramic views make it a favourite among locals and travellers seeking a peaceful day by the sea. Villefranche-sur-Mer Beach is a family-friendly spot with a few beachside restaurants and rental facilities.

Distance From French Riviera: 7 km from Nice
Location: Villefranche-sur-Mer
Nearest Airport: Nice Côte d’Azur Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Villefranche-sur-Mer Station
Best Time To Visit: June to September

4. Crouton Beach, Nice

Relax on Croûton Beach's pebbly shores, Nice's scenic gem

Photo: Eric T Gunther / Wikimedia Commons

Crouton Beach in Nice offers a peaceful coastal escape with lovely pebble shores and a tranquil atmosphere, away from the city’s busy centre. A hidden gem along Nice’s coastline, Crouton Beach is a serene spot for those who prefer quieter beaches. Known for its small pebbly shore and calm waves, it’s ideal for a relaxing day. The clear waters make it great for snorkelling, and its nearby facilities offer a simple and hassle-free beach experience.

Distance From French Riviera: 2 km from Nice centre
Location: Nice
Nearest Airport: Nice Côte d’Azur Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Nice Ville Station
Best Time To Visit: June to September

5. Plage de Pampelonne Beach

Unwind on Pampelonne Beach's pristine white sand, Saint-Tropez

Photo: NADIA LEVENETS / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Plage de Pampelonne is a famous beach in Saint-Tropez with wide sandy stretches and a vibrant ambiance, perfect for sunbathing and enjoying the lively beach clubs. Stretching over five kilometres, Plage de Pampelonne is one of the French Riviera’s most iconic beaches. It combines golden sands with a festive atmosphere, thanks to its array of beach clubs and restaurants. Popular among celebrities, it offers a glamorous escape and a chance to experience Saint-Tropez’s lively beach culture.

Distance From French Riviera: 12 km from Saint-Tropez
Location: Saint-Tropez
Nearest Airport: Toulon-Hyères Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Saint-Raphaël Station
Best Time To Visit: June to August

6. Plage de l’Escalet

 Image of beach side view - explore Plage de l'Escalet secluded cove and crystal-clear waters

Photo: Sébastien Thébault / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Plage de l’Escalet is a beautiful, unspoiled beach near Saint-Tropez known for its crystal-clear waters and secluded charm, ideal for a quiet retreat. Located just outside Saint-Tropez, Plage de l’Escalet offers pristine waters and rocky coves, making it a top choice for nature lovers. Its shallow, clear waters make it perfect for snorkelling and swimming. Unlike more crowded beaches, Plage de l’Escalet provides a more private experience, with fewer facilities but an abundance of natural beauty.

Distance From French Riviera: 13 km from Saint-Tropez
Location: Ramatuelle
Nearest Airport: Toulon-Hyères Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Saint-Raphaël Station
Best Time To Visit: May to September

7. Plage Petite Afrique

 Image of a beach surrounded by lush greenery - Plage Petite Afrique, Nice's hidden beach paradise

Photo: LPLT / Wikimedia Commons

Plage Petite Afrique offers a picturesque escape in Beaulieu-sur-Mer with its lush surroundings, soft sand, and shallow waters perfect for families. Nestled in a beautiful cove, Plage Petite Afrique boasts a stunning landscape of golden sands and gentle waves, ideal for families and young children. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery and rocks, creating a tranquil oasis. With a relaxed atmosphere, it’s a scenic spot to unwind and enjoy nature.

Distance From French Riviera: 12 km from Nice
Location: Beaulieu-sur-Mer
Nearest Airport: Nice Côte d’Azur Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Beaulieu-sur-Mer Station
Best Time To Visit: June to August

8. Mira Beach

 Enjoy Miramar Beach's stunning views and tranquil atmosphere

Photo: Kyle Taylor / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Mira Beach is a peaceful, secluded spot offering beautiful views and gentle waves, perfect for those seeking a quiet day on the French Riviera. Mira Beach provides a calm retreat with its intimate setting and clear waters. Surrounded by cliffs, this beach feels secluded, offering a quiet escape. Its shallow waters are safe for swimming, making it a great spot for families or couples. With fewer crowds, Mira Beach is ideal for relaxation and soaking up the Riviera’s natural beauty.

Distance From French Riviera: 15 km from Nice
Location: Near Eze-sur-Mer
Nearest Airport: Nice Côte d’Azur Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Eze-sur-Mer Station
Best Time To Visit: May to September

9. Almanarre Beach

Almanarre Beach: Serene French Riviera destination, pristine shores await

Photo: Aeroceanaute / Wikimedia Commons

Almanarre Beach in Hyères is famous for windsurfing and kitesurfing, with a long sandy stretch and beautiful natural surroundings. Located in Hyères, Almanarre Beach is known for its long sandy shore and favourable wind conditions, making it a popular spot for windsurfing. The beach’s shallow waters and expansive shoreline attract water sports enthusiasts and families alike. With beautiful sea views and a natural landscape, Almanarre offers an active yet relaxing beach experience.

Distance From French Riviera: 7 km from Hyères
Location: Hyères
Nearest Airport: Toulon-Hyères Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Hyères Station
Best Time To Visit: June to August

The French Riviera’s beaches are a slice of paradise, combining breathtaking beauty with a rich, luxurious vibe that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re drawn to the lively shores of Nice, the glamour of Cannes, or the secluded charm of hidden coves, this region offers an ideal blend of relaxation and excitement. Ready to plan your unforgettable Riviera escape? Book with TripXL to discover exclusive deals and create your dream getaway on the iconic French Riviera beaches.

Cover Photo: Bella White / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

French Riviera beaches offer a unique blend of crystal-clear waters, stunning scenery, luxury, and rich history, making them an irresistible destination.
Explore secluded coves, snorkel in turquoise waters, stroll along picturesque promenades, and soak up the Mediterranean sun to truly experience French Riviera's magic.
Enjoy water sports, beach volleyball, sailing, and scenic boat tours, or simply relax at beachside cafes and restaurants.
Visit French Riviera beaches from May to October for warm weather, calm seas, and long sunny days, perfect for beach activities.
Combine beach relaxation with cultural exploration, fine dining, and local experiences, and take time to appreciate the stunning natural beauty.

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