The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d’Azur, is home to some of the most captivating beaches in Southern France. From the glamorous shores of Cannes to the hidden coves of Nice, this stunning coastline offers a diverse array of beach destinations that cater to every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly stretch of sand, a trendy spot to see and be seen, or a secluded paradise for a quiet plunge into the sea, the French Riviera has it all.
Whether you prefer the lively atmosphere of a bustling beach in the heart of a coastal town or the tranquil beauty of a secluded cove at the south end of a hidden bay, the French Riviera offers an unparalleled beach experience. So grab your sunscreen and join us as we dive into the beautiful beaches of the Côte d’Azur, where the Mediterranean Sea meets the sun-soaked shores of Southern France.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in the French Riviera 💎 :
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Four Seasons Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat
- ✨ 5-Star: Hôtel Belles Rives
- 🏨 4-Star: La Villa Douce
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Hôtel La Voile
- 💸 Cheap: Village de Vacances Les Tourelles
- 🏢 Apartment: Résidence Villa d'Elsa
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Grand Hôtel des Sablettes Plage, Curio Collection by Hilton
- 🏩 For Couples: Hôtel & Spa La Villa Cap Ferrat
1. 🥥 Top 10 French Riviera Beaches
🌟 Plage de la Croisette (Cannes) – Best for Glamour and People-Watching
The iconic Croisette is the epitome of French Riviera glamour. This long stretch of golden sand in Cannes offers crystal-clear waters and a backdrop of luxury hotels. It’s a favorite among the jet-set crowd, perfect for people-watching and soaking up the sun. While parts of the beach are private, there are public areas accessible to all. The Croisette is not just about the beach; it’s a lifestyle, with high-end shops, restaurants, and the famous Cannes Film Festival nearby. For a taste of local life, explore the nearby Le Suquet district with its charming old town atmosphere.
Best Hotels Near Plage de la Croisette 🏨
- Lone Star House – Lone Star House is a charming property located just steps away from the famous Plage de la Croisette, one of the most beautiful beaches in the south of France. This elegant house offers stunning sea views and easy access to the long stretch of sand and pebbles that make up the beach. Guests can enjoy the convenience of a fully equipped kitchen and a spacious terrace, perfect for soaking up the Mediterranean sun.
- Village de Vacances Les Tourelles – Village de Vacances Les Tourelles is a family-friendly resort situated near Plage de la Croisette, one of the most popular beaches in Cannes. The resort offers comfortable accommodations with a range of amenities, including a swimming pool and a restaurant. Its location provides easy access to the beautiful stretch of beach, where guests can enjoy sun loungers and various water activities.
- Lou Paouvadou – Lou Paouvadou is a cozy hotel located just a short walk from Plage de la Croisette, one of the most famous beaches on the Côte d’Azur. Guests can enjoy the hotel’s garden and terrace, perfect for relaxing after a day at the beach. The hotel’s location allows easy access to the sandy shores of La Croisette, where visitors can experience the glamour and beauty of the French Riviera.
🏔️ Plage de la Mala (Cap d’Ail) – Best for Secluded Natural Beauty
Nestled between limestone cliffs, Plage de la Mala is a hidden gem that’s worth the effort to reach. This pebbly beach offers crystal-clear turquoise waters and a secluded atmosphere that’s a far cry from the busier beaches of Nice or Cannes. It’s a favorite among locals and those in the know. The beach is accessible via a scenic coastal path or by boat, adding to its exclusive feel. With its stunning natural beauty and intimate setting, Plage de la Mala offers a more authentic Côte d’Azur experience. Don’t forget to bring water shoes for comfort on the pebbles!
Best Hotels Near Plage de la Mala 🏨
- Hotel Miramar Cap d'Ail – Hotel Miramar Cap d’Ail is a charming property located near the beautiful Plage de la Mala, one of the French Riviera’s hidden gems. The hotel offers stunning sea views and easy access to the small pebble beach, known for its crystal-clear waters. The hotel’s restaurant serves delicious Mediterranean cuisine, and its terrace provides a perfect spot for watching the sunset over the sea.
- Villa Azur Cap d'Ail – Villa Azur Cap d’Ail is a luxurious property situated just a short distance from Plage de la Mala, one of the most beautiful beaches on the French Riviera. This elegant villa offers spacious accommodations with modern amenities and stunning sea views. The villa’s location provides easy access to the picturesque Plage de la Mala, known for its turquoise waters and secluded atmosphere.
- Monts Del Oliviers Cap d'Ail App 4 – Monts Del Oliviers Cap d’Ail App 4 is a comfortable apartment located near Plage de la Mala, one of the most beautiful beaches in the south of France. The apartment offers modern amenities and a balcony with sea views, perfect for enjoying the Mediterranean atmosphere. Its proximity to Plage de la Mala allows guests to easily access the beach and enjoy its crystal-clear waters and small pebbles.
🎉 Plage de Pampelonne Beach (Saint-Tropez) – Best for Beach Clubs and Celebrity Spotting
When it comes to beach clubs and celebrity spotting, Pampelonne Beach is the place to be. This 5-kilometer stretch of sand is lined with trendy beach clubs and restaurants, offering the ultimate Saint-Tropez experience. While it can get crowded in high season, the atmosphere is electric, and the people-watching is unparalleled. From exclusive beach clubs to public areas, Pampelonne caters to all types of beachgoers. Watch superyachts anchored offshore, sip champagne at a beach club, or simply relax on the soft sand. It’s the perfect blend of natural beauty and Riviera glamour.
Best Hotels Near Plage de Pampelonne Beach 🏨
- La Ferme d'Augustin – La Ferme d’Augustin is a charming hotel located near the famous Plage de Pampelonne, one of the best beaches on the French Riviera. This rustic-chic property offers comfortable rooms with a blend of traditional Provençal style and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy the hotel’s beautiful gardens, outdoor pool, and excellent restaurant serving local cuisine.
- La Garbine – La Garbine is a cozy bed and breakfast situated near Plage de Pampelonne, one of the most popular beaches in Saint-Tropez. This charming property offers comfortable rooms with a rustic-chic decor and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy the peaceful garden and terrace, perfect for relaxing after a day at the beach.
- Résidence Motel Les Sellettes - Le Motel – Résidence Motel Les Sellettes – Le Motel is a comfortable property located near Plage de Pampelonne, one of the most beautiful beaches on the French Riviera. The motel offers air-conditioned rooms with modern amenities and a kitchenette, perfect for those seeking a home-away-from-home experience.
👨👩👧👦 Plage de l’Estagnol (Bormes-les-Mimosas) – Best for Families and Calm Waters
For those seeking a family-friendly beach with calm, shallow waters, Plage de l’Estagnol is a perfect choice. This crescent-shaped cove is sheltered from winds and offers soft sand and clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is backed by pine trees, providing natural shade and a picturesque setting. It’s less crowded than some of the more famous Riviera beaches, offering a peaceful atmosphere for families and those looking to escape the bustle. Pack a picnic and spend the day enjoying the gentle waves and beautiful surroundings.
Best Hotels Near Plage de l’Estagnol 🏨
- Hôtel La Voile – Hôtel La Voile is a charming property located near the beautiful Plage de l’Estagnol, one of the most picturesque beaches on the French Riviera. This cozy hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities and a Mediterranean-inspired decor. Guests can enjoy the hotel’s terrace and garden, perfect for relaxing after a day at the beach.
- Sous Les Pins – Sous Les Pins is a cozy apartment located near Plage de l’Estagnol, one of the most beautiful beaches in the south of France. This comfortable property offers modern amenities and a terrace with garden views, perfect for enjoying the Mediterranean atmosphere. Its proximity to Plage de l’Estagnol allows guests to easily access the beach and enjoy its fine sand and clear waters.
- Studio rénové, balcon ensoleillé et calme – Studio rénové, balcon ensoleillé et calme is a modern apartment located near Plage de l’Estagnol, one of the most beautiful beaches on the French Riviera. This recently renovated studio offers comfortable accommodations with a sunny balcony, perfect for enjoying the Mediterranean climate.
🌅 Plage de la Garoupe (Cap d’Antibes) – Best for Scenic Views and Upscale Amenities
Located on the chic Cap d’Antibes, Plage de la Garoupe offers a mix of public and private beach areas. The views of the Lérins Islands are stunning, and the water is perfect for swimming. This beach combines natural beauty with upscale amenities, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Don’t miss the coastal path that starts near the beach for a scenic walk along the cap. The beach is also home to some excellent restaurants, perfect for a long, leisurely lunch by the sea. With its golden sand and crystal-clear waters, Plage de la Garoupe embodies the elegance of the French Riviera.
Best Hotels Near Plage de la Garoupe 🏨
- Villa de l'Ambassadeur – Villa de l’Ambassadeur is a luxurious property located near the famous Plage de la Garoupe, one of the most beautiful beaches on the French Riviera. This elegant villa offers spacious accommodations with modern amenities and stunning sea views. Guests can enjoy the private garden and pool, perfect for relaxing after a day at the beach.
- B&B Bessy – B&B Bessy is a charming bed and breakfast located near Plage de la Garoupe, one of the most popular beaches in Antibes. This cozy property offers comfortable rooms with a homey atmosphere and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy the garden and terrace, perfect for relaxing after a day of sun and sea. The B&B’s proximity to Plage de la Garoupe allows visitors to easily access the beach and enjoy its beautiful sandy shores and clear waters.
- Villa Fabulite – Villa Fabulite is a stunning property situated near Plage de la Garoupe, one of the most beautiful beaches on the Côte d’Azur. Guests can enjoy the Mediterranean garden and terrace, perfect for soaking up the sun. The villa’s location provides easy access to Plage de la Garoupe, known for its fine sand and clear waters, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a high-end beach experience on the French Riviera.
🌴 Plage de la Paloma Beach (Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat) – Best for Exclusive and Intimate Beach Experience
Tucked away on the exclusive Cap Ferrat peninsula, Paloma Beach is a small but stunning stretch of pebbles with crystal-clear waters. It’s a favorite among celebrities and offers a more intimate beach experience. The Paloma Beach Club is perfect for a leisurely lunch with a view of the Mediterranean. The beach is surrounded by lush vegetation and luxury villas, creating a sense of exclusivity and tranquility. Despite its high-end reputation, there’s a public section where anyone can enjoy this slice of paradise. Don’t forget to take a stroll along the coastal path for breathtaking views of the coastline.
Best Hotels Near Plage de la Paloma Beach 🏨
- Four Seasons Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat – This iconic luxury hotel sits on the tip of the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. With its Michelin-starred restaurant, private beach club, and Olympic-sized infinity pool, it epitomizes Côte d’Azur glamour. The hotel is just a short drive from the beautiful Plage de la Paloma, one of the most picturesque beaches in Nice.
- Hôtel & Spa La Villa Cap Ferrat – Located in the heart of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, this boutique hotel offers a luxurious and intimate experience. With its rooftop pool, spa, and panoramic views of the Mediterranean, it’s perfect for a romantic getaway. The hotel is within walking distance of several beaches, including the stunning Plage de la Paloma.
- Hôtel La Brise Marine – This charming hotel is set in a beautiful Belle Époque villa, offering a more traditional Côte d’Azur experience. With its lush gardens and sea views, it’s a peaceful retreat just steps away from the beach. The hotel is ideally located for exploring the sandy beaches of the French Riviera, including the nearby Plage de la Paloma.
🏛️ Plage de la Salis (Antibes) – Best for Combining Beach and Culture
This sandy beach in Antibes offers beautiful views of the old town and is popular with families. The shallow waters make it great for children, and there are plenty of amenities nearby, including restaurants and ice cream shops. The beach is backed by a promenade perfect for evening strolls. Nearby, you can explore the charming streets of Antibes’ old town or visit the Picasso Museum housed in the Grimaldi Castle. With its blend of history, culture, and beach life, Plage de la Salis offers a quintessential French Riviera experience.
Best Hotels Near Plage de la Salis 🏨
- Hôtel Belles Rives – This Art Deco gem sits right on the water’s edge in Juan-les-Pins, offering stunning sea views and direct beach access. Once the home of F. Scott Fitzgerald, it now boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant and a private beach. The hotel is just a short walk from Plage de la Salis, one of the most popular beaches in Nice.
- Hôtel Hélios – Located in the heart of Juan-les-Pins, this modern hotel offers comfortable rooms with sea views and a rooftop terrace. It’s perfectly situated for exploring the beaches and nightlife of the Côte d’Azur. The hotel is within easy reach of Plage de la Salis, known for its golden sand and clear waters.
- Résidence Villa d'Elsa – This aparthotel offers spacious, self-catering accommodations just steps from the beach. With its outdoor pool and garden, it’s ideal for families or longer stays. The property is conveniently located near several beaches, including the beautiful Plage de la Salis.
🌿 Plage du Rayol Canadel (Rayol-Canadel-sur-Mer) – Best for Natural Beach Experience and Snorkeling
For those seeking a more natural beach experience, Plage du Rayol Canadel is a must-visit. The beach is backed by lush Mediterranean vegetation and offers clear waters perfect for snorkeling. The nearby Domaine du Rayol botanical gardens are worth a visit too. This area is less developed than other parts of the Riviera, offering a glimpse of the coast’s natural beauty. The beach is divided into several small coves, each with its own character. From here, you can enjoy stunning views of the Iles d’Hyères and the dramatic Massif des Maures mountains.
Best Hotels Near Plage du Rayol Canadel 🏨
- La Villa Douce – Perched on a hillside overlooking the Mediterranean, this boutique hotel offers stunning sea views and a peaceful atmosphere. With its infinity pool and spa, it’s perfect for a relaxing getaway. The hotel is just a short drive from the beautiful Plage du Rayol Canadel, one of the most scenic beaches on the Côte d’Azur.
- Les Terrasses du Bailli – This charming hotel offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean and the Iles d’Or. With its terraced gardens and outdoor pool, it’s a tranquil retreat just steps from the beach. The hotel provides easy access to Plage du Rayol Canadel, known for its crystal-clear waters and golden sand.
- La Résidence du Bailli – This aparthotel offers spacious, self-catering accommodations with sea views. Its location near the beach and the Domaine du Rayol botanical gardens makes it ideal for nature lovers. The property is just a short walk from Plage du Rayol Canadel, one of the most beautiful beaches in the region.
🏝️ Plage de Notre Dame (Porquerolles Island) – Best for Unspoiled Beauty and Island Exploration
A trip to Porquerolles Island is like stepping into paradise, and Plage de Notre Dame is the crown jewel. This stretch of white sand and turquoise waters is often ranked as one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. The island’s car-free policy adds to its unspoiled charm. Rent a bike to explore the island and discover secluded coves and pristine beaches. The waters around Porquerolles are part of a marine national park, ensuring their preservation and making them perfect for snorkeling. With its Caribbean-like waters and Mediterranean vegetation, Notre Dame Beach offers an unforgettable experience.
Best Hotels Near Plage de Notre Dame 🏨
- L'Oustaou de Porquerolles – Located on the idyllic island of Porquerolles, this charming hotel offers a true escape from the mainland. With its traditional Provençal style and lush garden, it’s perfect for those seeking tranquility. The hotel is just a short bike ride from Plage de Notre Dame, often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe.
- Le Porquerollais – This family-run hotel in the heart of Porquerolles village offers comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere. Its central location makes it ideal for exploring the island’s beaches and natural beauty. The hotel provides easy access to Plage de Notre Dame, known for its turquoise waters and white sand.
- L'Arche de Porquerolles – This modern hotel offers bright, comfortable rooms just steps from the port. With its outdoor pool and garden, it’s a great base for exploring Porquerolles. The hotel is within cycling distance of Plage de Notre Dame, one of the most pristine beaches on the Côte d’Azur.
🌈 Plage des Sablettes (Menton) – Best for Picturesque Setting and Local Charm
Located in the charming town of Menton, known as the “Pearl of France,” Plage des Sablettes offers a picturesque setting with its colorful old town backdrop. This long, sandy beach is perfect for families, with calm waters and plenty of amenities. The promenade behind the beach is lined with cafes and restaurants, perfect for enjoying Menton’s famous lemons in various culinary creations. From the beach, you can enjoy views of the Italian coastline to the east and Monaco to the west. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Menton’s beautiful gardens and its old town with its Baroque architecture.
Best Hotels Near Plage des Sablettes 🏨
- Grand Hôtel des Sablettes Plage, Curio Collection by Hilton – This historic hotel, recently renovated, offers luxurious accommodations right on the seafront. With its spa, multiple restaurants, and direct beach access, it’s perfect for a pampering beach holiday. The hotel overlooks Plage des Sablettes, one of the most popular beaches in the area.
- Hôtel Restaurant La Seyne sur Mer – This charming hotel offers comfortable rooms and a highly-rated restaurant serving local cuisine. Its location near the beach and the port makes it ideal for exploring the area. The hotel is just a short walk from Plage des Sablettes, known for its long stretch of golden sand.
- Le Bali – This cozy bed and breakfast offers a personal touch and a peaceful atmosphere. With its garden and terrace, it’s a lovely place to relax after a day at the beach. The property is conveniently located near Plage des Sablettes, one of the most beautiful beaches on this part of the Côte d’Azur.
2. 🍾 Best Beach Clubs in the French Riviera
🌟 Club 55 (Pampelonne Beach, Saint-Tropez): This legendary spot on one of the longest sandy beaches in the region has been a celebrity favorite since Brigitte Bardot put it on the map in the 1950s. With its chic bohemian vibe and excellent seafood, it’s the perfect place to see and be seen. The beach offers a stunning stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear waters. Book well in advance, especially during peak season, and be prepared for a hefty bill – but trust me, the people-watching alone is worth it!
🍹 La Réserve à la Plage (Pampelonne Beach, Saint-Tropez): For a more modern take on the beach club experience, La Réserve à la Plage offers a perfect blend of luxury and laid-back charm. The beach is one of the best in the south of France, with soft sand and azure waters. Don’t miss their signature cocktails and fresh seafood platters. The stylish decor and attentive service create a sophisticated atmosphere that’s still relaxed enough for a day at the beach.
🥂 Belles Rives Beach (Juan-les-Pins): If you’re looking for a touch of old-world glamour, Belles Rives Beach is the place to be. This Art Deco gem was once the home of F. Scott Fitzgerald and still exudes the allure of the Roaring Twenties. The rocky beach might not be for everyone, but the stunning views and impeccable service more than make up for it. Enjoy a cocktail on the terrace overlooking the Mediterranean, or indulge in a gourmet meal at the beachside restaurant. It’s a step back in time to the golden age of the Côte d’Azur.
🎵 Anjuna Beach (Eze): For those seeking a beach club with a bohemian twist, Anjuna Beach in Eze is a must-visit. This colorful spot offers a laid-back vibe with its Balinese-inspired decor and live music. It’s a short walk from the beautiful Plage de la Mala, making it perfect for a full day of beach hopping. The eclectic atmosphere, with its colorful cushions and lanterns, creates a festive mood that’s different from the more traditional Riviera clubs. Enjoy fresh seafood, creative cocktails, and the sounds of live DJs as you lounge by the Mediterranean.
3. 🏊 Activities and Water Sports in the French Riviera
🏊♀️ Swimming and Snorkeling: The crystal-clear waters of the French Riviera are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Some of the best beaches for these activities include Plage des Marinières in Villefranche-sur-Mer, offering a long stretch of sandy beach with calm waters ideal for swimming; Plage de la Mala in Cap d’Ail, which, while pebbly, boasts some of the clearest waters for snorkeling; and Pointe de l’Aiguille Beach in Théoule-sur-Mer, a hidden gem for snorkeling enthusiasts.
🏄♂️ Water Sports: The French Riviera is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Popular activities include jet skiing in Cannes, where many beaches offer rentals for a thrilling way to explore the coastline; paddleboarding at Plage de la Bocca in Cannes or Plage des Ondes in Cap d’Antibes; parasailing off the beaches of Nice or Saint-Tropez for a bird’s eye view of the Côte d’Azur; and windsurfing near the beaches of Hyères. Book water sports activities in advance during peak season to ensure availability and often better rates.
🏐 Beach Volleyball: Many of the sandy beaches along the French Riviera have volleyball nets set up, perfect for a fun and active day at the beach. Plage du Ponteil in Antibes and Plage de la Croisette in Cannes are great spots to join a game or start your own. Beach volleyball is not only a great way to stay active, but also an excellent opportunity to meet locals and other travelers. The soft sand and beautiful backdrop of the Mediterranean make for an unforgettable beach sports experience.
🤿 Scuba Diving: The waters off the French Riviera are home to diverse marine life and even some underwater archaeological sites. Popular diving spots include the waters around the Lérins Islands off Cannes, the underwater reserve near Cap d’Antibes, and the shipwrecks off Saint-Raphaël. Scuba diving offers a unique perspective on the Riviera’s underwater world, with its colorful coral reefs, ancient amphorae, and diverse sea life. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, there are dive sites suitable for all levels.
4. 🌆 Coastal Towns and Nearby Attractions
🎬 Cannes: Famous for its film festival, Cannes epitomizes Riviera glamour. La Croisette, the iconic promenade, is lined with luxury shops, hotels, and some of the best beaches on the French Riviera. Le Suquet, the old town, offers a charming contrast with its winding streets and stunning views. Don’t miss Marché Forville for sampling local delicacies. For a more local experience, head to Plage du Midi or Plage de la Bocca, public beaches that are less crowded than the glamorous beach clubs. Cannes blends celebrity allure with authentic Provençal charm.
🏙️ Nice: The capital of the French Riviera, Nice blends urban sophistication with beach town charm. The 7km Promenade des Anglais along the Bay of Angels is perfect for seaside strolls or cycling. Explore Vieille Ville (Old Town) with its narrow streets, flower market, and local specialties like socca. Climb Colline du Château for panoramic views of the city and its beautiful beaches. While Nice’s beaches are pebbly, nearby Villefranche-sur-Mer offers sandy shores at Plage des Marinières. Nice offers a perfect mix of culture, cuisine, and coastal beauty.
🏰 Antibes: This charming town offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and beautiful beaches. Visit the Picasso Museum housed in Château Grimaldi, take a coastal walk on Cap d’Antibes for stunning views and access to secluded beaches like Plage de la Garoupe, and immerse yourself in local life at Marché Provençal. Antibes maintains its old-world charm while offering some of the best beaches in France. It’s a haven for art lovers, history buffs, and beach enthusiasts alike.
🛥️ Saint-Tropez: Once a quiet fishing village, Saint-Tropez is now synonymous with Riviera chic. Pampelonne Beach is home to some of the most glamorous beach clubs on the Côte d’Azur. Watch locals play pétanque at Place des Lices or browse its market. Visit the Citadelle de Saint-Tropez for panoramic views of the town and yacht-filled harbor. Saint-Tropez perfectly balances its celebrity status with traditional Provençal roots, offering both glitz and authentic charm.
🍋 Menton: Known as the “Pearl of France,” Menton is the last stop before Italy. Plage des Sablettes is one of the best sandy beaches in the area, with a stunning old town backdrop. Explore the lush Jardin Botanique Val Rahmeh and visit the Jean Cocteau Museum dedicated to the multi-talented artist who fell in love with Menton. With its microclimate, beautiful beaches, and Italian influence, Menton offers a unique experience on the French Riviera.
5. 🍽️ Dining in French Riviera
🍽️ Beachside Dining: Enjoy a meal with your toes in the sand at some of the French Riviera’s best beachside restaurants. La Plage at Mala Beach offers stunning views and exquisite seafood on one of the most beautiful beaches. Le Bistrot de la Marine in Nice serves up the best bouillabaisse just steps from the pebble beaches. For a unique experience, take a boat ride to La Guérite on Île Sainte-Marguerite from Cannes. Many beach restaurants offer lounger rentals with lunch packages, perfect for combining sunbathing and dining.
🧀 Local Specialties: The French Riviera’s cuisine is a delightful mix of Provençal and Mediterranean flavors. Don’t miss trying socca, a chickpea pancake that’s a Nice specialty, at Chez Pipo in Nice’s old town. Savor a pissaladière, an onion tart perfect for a quick lunch, at La Tarte Tropézienne in Saint-Tropez. For an authentic Salade Niçoise, head to La Merenda in Nice. These local dishes offer a taste of the region’s culinary heritage, using fresh ingredients and traditional recipes passed down through generations.
🌟 Fine Dining: For special occasions, the Côte d’Azur boasts numerous Michelin-starred restaurants. La Vague d’Or in Saint-Tropez, with its three Michelin stars, offers an unforgettable gastronomic experience. Le Louis XV in Monaco, Alain Ducasse’s flagship restaurant, epitomizes Riviera luxury. La Passagère in Juan-les-Pins serves innovative cuisine with a view of the yachts in the harbor. These restaurants not only offer exceptional food but also showcase the best of French culinary artistry, often incorporating local ingredients from the land and sea.
🍷 Wine and Cocktails: The French Riviera is known for its rosé wines, but there’s so much more to discover. La Cave de la Tour in Cannes is a charming wine bar offering a great selection of local wines. Sip on classic cocktails at Le Bar Américain in Monaco’s iconic Hôtel de Paris. Enjoy a sunset cocktail right on the beach at Plage Beau Rivage in Nice. From beachside bars to sophisticated lounges, the Riviera offers diverse settings to enjoy local wines and expertly crafted cocktails.
FAQs about Trip to Beaches on the French Riviera ❔
Is French Riviera worth visiting?
Yes, absolutely. The French Riviera is stunningly beautiful, easy to navigate, and offers a mix of culture, beaches, and scenic towns.
Where is the clearest water in the Franch Riviera?
Some beaches known for clear water include:
- Paloma Beach in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
- Cap d’Ail Beach
- Plage de Paddle in Nice
Do people swim in the French Riviera?
Yes, swimming is very popular. Many beaches have lifeguards during summer months and the water is generally warm and clear.
How many days should you spend in the French Riviera?
I recommend 5-7 days is ideal to see the main highlights. This allows time to visit key towns like Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez while also relaxing at beaches. You can see quite a bit in 3-5 days, but 7-10 days allows for a more relaxed pace.
