Looking out onto the Mediterranean Sea, the beaches of the Cote d’Azur are some of the best in France, with their white sands and bright blue waters. As the Cote d’Azur has so many beaches to offer, we’ve picked just a few of our absolute chic favourites.
Sainte-Maxime
Just a few minutes away from St Tropez, which is very often crowded in the high summer, Sainte-Maxime offers a quieter beach getaway, with 5km of sandy beaches. Located at the heart of the French Riviera, Sainte-Maxime is easy to get to from the larger cities of the French Riviera, and the town of Sainte-Maxime itself is worth exploring too.
Villefranche-sur-Mer
Situated a short distance from Nice, Villefranche is again a quiet alternative to its more popular neighbour. Instead of heading to the town’s main beach, instead head for the Plage de Passable, a pretty pebble beach. From Villefranche you can also explore more of the Cote d’Azur on foot by walking onto Cap Ferrat and following its public footpath around the bay.
Théoule-sur-Mer
Just a stone’s throw from glamorous Cannes, Théoule-sur-Mer is a perfect stretch of white sand nestled between ochre cliffs and turquoise seas. If you’re in the mood for a stroll, take the footpath that leads across the dazzling crags and pine-forests of the Estérel massif, terminating in a stunning panoramic view of the coastline
Menton
The very last French city before you reach the Italian border, there is more to the harbour town of Menton than its pebble beach. If you explore the town further, you’ll also find gardens and lemon groves throughout, and once a year, Menton even holds a Lemon Festival in February.
Paloma Plage, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Cap Ferrat is a holiday hotspot favoured by the rich, with wealthy locals and holiday-makers alike gathering on the headland’s beaches in summer. Paloma Beach is one of the most popular, and it has a public stretch of shingly beach where you can lay out a towel or hire a sunbed. For those who wish to see more of the coastline, there is also a public footpath, the Sentier Edmund Davis, which takes you around the rocks of Paloma Point. Once you reach Paloma Point, you can either soak up the sights or, if you’re feeling brave, try a spot of diving.
Where to stay – Tiara Yaktsa Cote d’Azur
Overlooking the azure waters and dramatic ochre cliffs of Théoule-sur-Mer, Tiara Yaktsa makes for a stunning Riviera getaway. Unwind in the pool as you enjoy the beautiful views, or treat yourself to a session in the pampering wellness spa.