The Most Beautiful Beaches on the Côte d'Azur in 5 Stops

The Côte d’Azur packs some of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful beaches into less than 200 km. Between the Var and Menton, every bay reveals a different character. You’ll find rocky coves, long ribbons of golden sand, and incredible turquoise waters. Our selection of the 5 most beautiful beaches on the Côte d’Azur is based on 3 criteria: swimming quality, access and natural setting all guide this ranking.

For your holiday at a waterside campsite, here are the spots to remember:

Comparing the 5 most beautiful beaches on the Côte d’Azur

Plage de la Garoupe in Antibes: fine sand at Cap d’Antibes

Plage de la Garoupe, at the foot of Cap d’Antibes, charms visitors with its fine sand and sheltered waters. Around 300 metres long, it opens into a cove facing east. The water here stays calm, even in westerly winds. Scott Fitzgerald and Picasso were already frequenting its shores in the 1920s. Today, chic beach huts sit alongside free public areas, in the shade of umbrella pines.

Visitors’ favourite feature: the turquoise colour of the water, brighter than at neighbouring beaches, especially at low tide.

Practical information:

• Access on foot via the coastal path, or by car along the Route de la Garoupe.
• The ground alternates between fine sand and a few pebbles by the waterline.
• Beach huts, public showers and parasol rental are all available.
• Swimming remains pleasant from May to October.

Plage de la Mala in Cap-d’Ail: the hidden cove with turquoise waters

Plage de la Mala, in Cap-d’Ail, forms a hidden cove between two cliffs. You reach it by descending around 150 steps, which naturally limits visitor numbers and preserves its tranquillity. The very fine pebbles and clear water are reminiscent of Italian coves. Two beach restaurants have been serving here for decades. Snorkelling enthusiasts love the rocky marine life at the foot of the cliffs.

Visitors’ favourite feature: the deep blue water, stunning at daybreak before the swimmers arrive.

Practical information:

• Access is on foot only, via the steps on the coastal customs path.
• The ground is made up of very fine pebbles, comfortable with good sandals.
• Two beach-hut restaurants and a paid sun lounger service are available in the cove.
• The ideal season runs from June to September, with supervised swimming in summer.

Plage de Paloma in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat: the peninsula’s understated elegance

Plage de Paloma is located on the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula. It combines white pebbles, a pine grove and a lovely view over the Bay of Villefranche. It stays fairly quiet, far from the crowds at Nice or Cannes. The remarkably clear water makes for a pleasant swim and great underwater wildlife watching. A luxury villa and a historic beach hut line the shore. Pointe Saint-Hospice, right next door, is well worth a stroll after your swim.

Visitors’ favourite feature: the view over Villefranche-sur-Mer and its yachts at sunset.

Practical information:

• The main access point is on Avenue Jean Mermoz, in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat.
• White pebbles, fairly large but comfortable, make up the beach’s surface.
• A well-known beach restaurant and sun lounger rental bring the summer season to life.
• The swimming season runs from mid-May to mid-October.

Plage de Pampelonne in Ramatuelle: the legendary 5 km of Saint-Tropez

Plage de Pampelonne, in the commune of Ramatuelle, stretches for nearly 5 km of golden sand. It faces the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. Several sections with different atmospheres follow one another: Tahiti Beach on the family-friendly side, Club 55 for a lively vibe, and L’Escalet, which is wilder. Made famous by films and luxury establishments, it remains a symbol of the Côte d’Azur. Beach club regulars mix here with holidaymakers seeking public areas.

Visitors’ favourite feature: the public stretches between beach clubs, with clear water and postcard views.

Practical information:

• The main access point is via the Parking de l’Épi, in Ramatuelle.
• Fine golden sand covers the entire beach.
• Numerous beach restaurants, sun lounger rentals and bars line the shore.
• The busy season runs from May to September, peaking in July and August.

Plage de Villefranche-sur-Mer: the horseshoe bay between Nice and Monaco

Plage de Villefranche-sur-Mer stretches along one of the deepest bays in the Mediterranean. Sheltered by a natural amphitheatre of hills, it boasts particularly calm waters. Golden sand and pebbles share the 700-metre shoreline, facing the colourful old village. The yachts and ferries at anchor add to the postcard scene. The proximity of Nice and Monaco makes it easy to combine a swim with some cultural sightseeing.

Visitors’ favourite feature: the view of the village’s ochre façades from the water, in the evening.

Practical information:

• Direct access is from the Promenade des Marinières, opposite the train station.
• The ground alternates between golden sand and small pebbles depending on the section.
• Restaurants, public showers and supervised summer swimming are all available.
• The season runs from May to October, with warm water from June onwards.

Fancy laying out your towel on one of these most beautiful beaches on the Côte d’Azur? Discover our range of seaside campsites in PACA today: book your stay and pick your favourite beach!

FAQ — Most Beautiful Beaches on the Côte d’Azur