Best Beaches on the French Riviera

With over 300 kilometres of spectacular Mediterranean coastline, the French Riviera is home to some of Europe's most beautiful beaches. From secluded coves tucked beneath dramatic red cliffs to lively stretches of golden sand lined with beach clubs and restaurants, there is a beach to suit every style of traveller.

Whether you're looking for a quiet morning swim, a family-friendly beach, crystal-clear waters for snorkelling or an iconic Riviera experience, these are some of our favourite beaches along the Côte d'Azur.

Plage de la Pointe de l'Aiguille – Théoule-sur-Mer

If you're searching for a peaceful escape, few beaches compare to Pointe de l'Aiguille.

Nestled beneath the striking red cliffs of the Esterel Mountains, this protected beach offers crystal-clear turquoise water, excellent snorkelling and breathtaking scenery. Unlike many of the Riviera's more famous beaches, it retains a relaxed and uncrowded atmosphere.

Why you'll love it

• Crystal-clear water

• Spectacular red rock scenery

• Excellent snorkelling

• Peaceful atmosphere

• Beautiful sunsets

Perfect for couples and nature lovers.

Plage du Suveret – Théoule-sur-Mer

One of Théoule-sur-Mer's most popular family beaches, Plage du Suveret offers calm waters and wonderful views across the Bay of Cannes.

Nearby cafés and restaurants make it easy to spend the entire day by the sea.

Highlights

• Calm swimming conditions

• Family friendly

• Waterfront dining

• Paddleboarding

• Easy access

Plage de la Salis – Antibes

Located just east of the Old Town, Plage de la Salis is one of Antibes' most loved beaches.

Soft sand, shallow water and stunning views towards the historic ramparts make it especially popular with families.

Highlights

• Sandy beach

• Calm Mediterranean waters

• Family friendly

• Beautiful views of Old Antibes

• Close to cafés and restaurants

Plage de la Gravette – Antibes

Hidden beside the ancient walls of Antibes, Plage de la Gravette is one of the Riviera's hidden gems.

Sheltered from the wind and waves, it offers safe swimming and a unique historic setting.

Highlights

• Protected bay

• Excellent for children

• Easy walk from Old Antibes

• Crystal-clear water

Plage Macé – Cannes

Situated beside the famous Boulevard de la Croisette, Plage Macé provides visitors with the classic Cannes beach experience.

Spend the day swimming, people-watching or relaxing while overlooking luxury yachts and elegant hotels.

Highlights

• Golden sand

• Iconic Riviera location

• Beach clubs

• Walking distance to shopping

• Mediterranean views

Palm Beach – Cannes

Located at the quieter eastern end of La Croisette, Palm Beach offers a more relaxed atmosphere while still providing beautiful sandy beaches and excellent swimming.

It's an excellent choice for families or visitors looking to escape the busiest parts of Cannes.

Plage des Marinières – Villefranche-sur-Mer

Often regarded as one of the Riviera's finest beaches, Plage des Marinières sits within the sheltered bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer.

The calm water and stunning backdrop of colourful waterfront buildings create one of the most picturesque beach settings on the Côte d'Azur.

Highlights

• Long sandy beach

• Calm swimming

• Family friendly

• Beautiful village setting

• Excellent restaurants nearby

Paloma Beach – Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Paloma Beach is famous for its clear water and spectacular scenery.

Located on the exclusive Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula, this beach combines natural beauty with Riviera elegance.

Visitors can relax on the public beach or enjoy the renowned beach club.

Highlights

• Crystal-clear water

• Snorkelling

• Scenic coastal walks

• Luxury atmosphere

• Mediterranean views

Pampelonne Beach – Saint-Tropez

Stretching for almost five kilometres, Pampelonne Beach is perhaps the French Riviera's most famous beach.

Home to internationally renowned beach clubs, it attracts visitors seeking sunshine, glamour and a lively atmosphere.

Despite its reputation, the beach is large enough for everyone to find their own space.

Highlights

• Soft golden sand

• Beach clubs

• Water sports

• Luxury atmosphere

• Excellent restaurants

Larvotto Beach – Monaco

Monaco's main beach combines convenience with stunning Mediterranean scenery.

Recently redeveloped, Larvotto offers clear water, excellent facilities and easy access to restaurants and cafés.

It is the perfect place to cool off after exploring Monte Carlo.

Plage Mala – Cap d'Ail

Hidden beneath dramatic cliffs, Plage Mala is one of the Riviera's most beautiful hidden beaches.

Reaching it requires a short walk, but visitors are rewarded with turquoise water and a peaceful setting that feels worlds away from the busy coastline.

Highlights

• Hidden cove

• Crystal-clear water

• Snorkelling

• Scenic cliffs

• Quiet atmosphere

Choosing the Perfect French Riviera Beach

Every stretch of coastline offers a different experience.

Choose Théoule-sur-Mer if you're looking for peaceful beaches surrounded by spectacular natural scenery.

Visit Antibes for family-friendly sandy beaches close to the historic old town.

Spend the day in Cannes for beach clubs, shopping and Riviera glamour.

Head to Villefranche-sur-Mer or Cap d'Ail for some of the clearest water on the Côte d'Azur.

For luxury beach clubs and iconic Riviera experiences, Saint-Tropez remains hard to beat.

Our Favourite Beaches

If we had to choose just five beaches to recommend to our guests, they would be:

1. Plage de la Pointe de l'Aiguille, Théoule-sur-Mer

2. Plage des Marinières, Villefranche-sur-Mer

3. Pampelonne Beach, Saint-Tropez

4. Plage de la Salis, Antibes

5. Paloma Beach, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Each offers something unique, from hidden coves and family-friendly swimming to glamorous beach clubs and unforgettable Mediterranean scenery.

Stay Close to the French Riviera's Best Beaches

Whether you're staying at Cove d'Azur in Théoule-sur-Mer or Villa 45 La Colle-sur-Loup, many of the French Riviera's finest beaches are within easy driving distance.

From peaceful morning swims to sunset walks along the Mediterranean, exploring the Riviera's coastline is one of the highlights of any holiday in southern France.