There’s something special about a beach vacation. The sound of waves crashing against the shore, the smell of salt in the air, and the feeling of sand between your toes all combine to create an unforgettable experience. And when it comes to beaches, France definitely knows how to deliver.
With over 3,000 miles of coastline, the country boasts an impressive array of beach destinations to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax or a bustling beach town with plenty of activities, there’s sure to be a perfect beach in France for you.
1. Plage De Pampelonne – Saint-Tropez
Saint-Tropez is one of the most popular tourist destinations in France and it is easy to see why. The town has a lovely old-world charm with its narrow streets and pastel-colored houses. But what really attracts visitors from all over the world are the beaches.
Saint-Tropez is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in France, including Plage de Pampelonne. This beach is situated just outside of town and it is the perfect place to soak up the sun and enjoy the stunning view of the Mediterranean Sea. Plage de Pampelonne is also famous for its chic atmosphere, making it a popular spot for celebrities and jet-setters.
So whether you are looking for a relaxing day by the sea or a glimpse of the glamorous side of Saint-Tropez, make sure to add Plage de Pampelonne to your list.
2. Paloma Beach – Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Paloma Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the French Riviera. It is located on the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula, just a short drive from Nice. The beach is well known for its clear water and beautiful setting.
There are plenty of sun loungers and parasols for visitors to use, and there are also several restaurants and cafes nearby. Paloma Beach is also a great place for swimming, snorkeling, and windsurfing. Visitors can also take a boat trip from Paloma Beach to see the nearby islands of Saint-Tropez and Monaco.
3. Plage de la Grande Conche – Étretat
The Plage de la Grande Conche in Étretat, France is a stunning beach that has been attracting visitors for years. The beach is well known for its dramatic cliffs, which rise up from the shore and provide a dramatic backdrop for the white sand and turquoise water. Visitors to the beach can enjoy plenty of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and windsurfing.
There are also a number of restaurants and cafes in the area, making it the perfect destination for a day trip or a longer holiday. With its spectacular scenery and wide range of activities on offer, it is no wonder that the plage de la Grande Conche is one of the most popular beaches in France.
4. Plage Des Dames – Cannes
Among the many beautiful beaches in France, Plage des Dames in Cannes is a standout. With its gentle waves and sandy shores, the beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. In addition, the beach is located close to many restaurants and cafes, making it easy to grab a bite to eat between swims.
Plage des Dames is also one of the few beaches in France that allows dogs, so it’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll with your four-legged friend. Whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy a day by the water or simply want to take in the stunning views of Cannes, Plage des Dames is sure to impress.
5. La Croisette – Cannes
La Croisette is a long promenade along the Mediterranean Sea in Cannes, France. It is known for its fashionable shops, luxury hotels, and stunning beaches. The promenade stretches for nearly 2 miles and is lined with palm trees and flower beds. Visitors can enjoy views of the nearby islands, yachts moored in the harbor, and the famous Cannes Film Festival Palace.
There are also several famous monuments along La Croisette, including a statue of Swedish actress Greta Garbo and a bust of British actor Sir Winston Churchill. In addition to its beautiful setting, La Croisette is also home to some of the best beaches in France. These include Plage du Midi, which offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea; Plage de la Bocca, which is popular with windsurfers; and Plage de la Croisette, which has a large sunbathing area.
6. Plage du Mourillon – Toulon
The Plage du Mourillon is located in the southern French city of Toulon. This beach is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the views of the Mediterranean Sea. The Plage du Mourillon is also adjacent to several restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it the perfect place to enjoy a meal or a refreshing drink after a day in the sun.
Visitors can also find a number of shops selling beachwear and souvenirs in the area. With its sparkling waters and ample amenities, the Plage du Mourillon is an ideal spot for a fun-filled day by the sea.
7. Plage de l’Esterel – Saint-Raphaël
Plage de l’Esterel is one of the most popular beaches in France, and it is easy to see why. The sparkling turquoise water and soft white sand are a perfect backdrop for a day of relaxation. The beach is situated on the Bay of Saint-Tropez, making it the perfect place to take in the stunning views.
There are also plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained, including windsurfing, jet skiing, and parasailing. Plage de l’Esterel is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing day by the sea.
8. Pampelonne Beach – Ramatuelle
Pampelonne Beach is a 5.5-kilometer long beach located in Ramatuelle, France. The beach is situated on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea and is a popular spot for tourists. Pampelonne has a wide range of facilities and activities, including restaurants, bars, and nightclubs.
The beach is also well known for its nude bathing area. Pampelonne is one of the busiest beaches in France and can be quite crowded during the summer months. However, the crowds thin out somewhat in the morning and evening, making it a good time to enjoy the beach. Visitors should be aware that there are no lifeguards on duty at Pampelonne Beach, so they should take care when swimming.
9. Plage de la Bouverie – Antibes
Antibes is a charming beach town located on the French Riviera. The Plage de la Bouverie is one of the most popular beaches in Antibes and is known for its clear water and lovely setting. The beach is situated next to the port, so there are always plenty of people-watching opportunities.
In addition to swimming and sunbathing, the Plage de la Bouverie also offers a variety of water sports, such as jet skiing and parasailing. There are also several restaurants and cafes located nearby, making it the perfect place to spend a day in the sun.
10. Salis Beach – Nice
Salis Beach, located in Nice, France, is a beautiful spot for swimming, sunbathing, and simply taking in stunning views. The water is clean and clear, the sand is soft and white, and the beach is well-maintained. There are plenty of sun umbrellas and lounge chairs for visitors to use, and there are also several restaurants and cafes nearby for grabbing a bite. Salis Beach is definitely one of the nicest beaches in France.
11. Villefranche-sur-Mer Beach – Villefranche-sur-Mer
Villefranche-sur-Mer is a beautiful beach town located on the French Riviera. The town’s beach is well-known for its clear turquoise waters and stunning views. Visitors can sunbathe on the sandy shores, swim in the calm waters, or take a leisurely stroll along the promenade.
There are also many restaurants and cafes located nearby, making it the perfect place to spend a day in the sun.
12. Passable Beach – Saint-Tropez
Saint-Tropez is world-famous for its beaches, which attract visitors from all over the globe. With their soft white sand and clear blue water, the beaches of Saint-Tropez are truly stunning. However, one beach, in particular, stands out from the rest: Passable Beach. Located just outside of the town center, Passable Beach is less crowded than other beaches in Saint-Tropez. As a result, it offers a more relaxed atmosphere.
In addition, the beach has a number of facilities, including showers, toilets, and a lifeguard station. For those looking for a more tranquil beach experience, Passable Beach is a perfect choice.
13. La Baie des Fourmis – Antibes
La Baie des Fourmis is a beautiful beach in the town of Antibes, France. The sparkling water and soft sand make it a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. Although La Baie des Fourmis is relatively small, it has everything you need for a perfect day at the beach.
There are plenty of sun loungers and parasols to keep you cool in the heat, and there are also a few restaurants and cafes nearby if you get hungry. Best of all, the beach is only a short walk from the center of town, so you can easily combine a day at the beach with some sightseeing.
14. Plage de la Fontonne – Nice
The Plage de la Fontonne is a beautiful beach located in Nice, France. It is well known for its clear turquoise water and stunning white sand beach. Visitors can expect to find plenty of sun loungers and parasols, as well as a range of water sports on offer. The beach is also a great place to take a walk, relax and take in the stunning scenery.
15. Plage de l’Ariane – Cannes
The Plage de l’Ariane is located in the heart of Cannes, just a short walk from the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès. This secluded beach is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean Sea. The Plage de l’Ariane is equipped with showers, toilets, and a snack bar.
Visitors can rent sun loungers and umbrellas, or take advantage of the free public showers. There is also a children’s play area and a small heated pool. The Plage de l’Ariane is open from mid-April to mid-October.
In conclusion
There you have it, the 15 best beaches in France. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax or a bustling beach town with plenty of activities, there’s sure to be a perfect beach in France for you. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!
