12 Best South of France Beaches: A Jet-Setter's Guide (2025)
by Ellie Smith / June 26, 2025
Estimated reading time: 11 minutes
The French Riviera is a world-renowned stretch of the Mediterranean coastline in the southeast corner of France, famous for its glamour, stunning scenery, and pleasant climate. The "Côte d'Azur" literally means "Azure Coast," referring to the striking blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea. The region offers a mix of pebbly beaches, like those in Nice, and sandy ones, along with dramatic cliffs and picturesque coves. Places like Monaco, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez are synonymous with luxury yachts, high-end boutiques, casinos, and exclusive events. But beyond the glitz, you'll find beautiful villages and hilltop towns full of history and character.
At Blacklane, we offer city-to-beach chauffeur rides across the region, so we know the coastline well. Here are our favorite south of France beaches plus some insider tips to help you plan your perfect seaside escape.
Table of contents
Top 12 beaches in the south of France
Pampelonne Beach
Where is it: Saint-Tropez
What is it: Pampelonne Beach is undoubtedly one the most famous and luxurious beaches in Saint-Tropez, where celebrities and athletes love to lounge under the shade of their umbrellas. It's also the longest beach in Saint-Tropez, stretching nearly 5 km of soft sand and crystal-clear water.
If you're looking for the epitome of upscale indulgence at Pampelonne Beach, head to one of the beach clubs to rent a sun lounger, sip on a refreshing cocktail, or enjoy some fresh Mediterranean cuisine. One such place is Le Club 55. Established in 1955, this legendary beach club has been a favorite spot for celebrities and locals. In fact, Brigitte Bardot herself has graced the shores of Le Club 55. It's a chill spot with rustic decor and a bohemian vibe that's perfect for unwinding and sipping on some vino, especially their own Rosé wine, aptly named "Club 55".
And the food? Magnifique! The menu features fresh seafood, seasonal salads, and Provençal specialties, all perfectly paired with wines from the Côtes de Provence. Like many beach clubs in the South of France, part of the charm lies in the lively atmosphere and the crowd. Reservations for tables and beach beds are highly recommended and can be made up to two months in advance.
Pampelonne Beach proudly holds a Blue Flag, highlighting its consistently high standards of water cleanliness, safety, and environmental care.
How to get there: The beach is easy to reach from central Saint-Tropez. You can take a ride or even cycle. In summer, the seasonal ZOU! bus (Line 875 or 7705) runs from the town center to the beach in about 10–20 minutes for around €3. For a smoother, door-to-beach experience, a pre-booked ride with Blacklane ensures comfort and timing, especially during peak season.
Byblos Beach
Where is it: Saint-Tropez
What is it: Byblos Beach is the perfect extension of the renowned Byblos Hotel. It's just a 10-minute ride from Place des Lices, a lively square known for its markets and locals playing pétanque under the plane trees. The beach offers a casual yet chic atmosphere, where lounge music brings this intimate, elegant space to life.
The contemporary marine-inspired décor is breathtaking, with shaded terraces that evoke the sails of majestic yachts. With locally sourced, fresh, seasonal ingredients, skilled chefs craft light Mediterranean dishes rooted in vibrant regional flavors.
The beach club seats up to 120 guests under sail-like canopies, and there are 110 sunbeds on the sand.
Byblos Beach is open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., extending until 9 p.m. in July and August.
How to get there: Byblos Beach is located on Pampelonne Beach. Start from the center of Saint-Tropez and head toward Place des Lices, Byblos Beach is just a short walk from the square. If you're coming from farther away, a chauffeured ride is the most convenient way to get there.
Jardin Tropézina
Where is it: Saint-Tropez
What is it: Jardin Tropézina is Saint‑Tropez’s newest hot spot, set on the north end of Pampelonne Beach with sweeping views of the bay. Designed as a serene beachside garden near Château de la Méssardière, this oasis charms with pastel tones and warm wooden accents, offering a genuinely relaxed yet elegant vibe.
The restaurant is led by renowned French chef Jean-François Piège and serves fresh Mediterranean-style dishes and glistening seafood. It’s the perfect spot to soak up the sun and take in views over Pampelonne Bay.
Open year-round from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Jardin Tropézina extends into the evening from June 13 to August, serving dinner and apéro by the water.
How to get there: Jardin Tropézina is located on Pampelonne Beach, just a short ride from central Saint-Tropez or the nearby Château de la Méssardière.
Nikki Beach Monte-Carlo
Where is it: Monte-Carlo
What is it: Step into the world of Nikki Beach Monte‑Carlo and you'll be greeted with white and gold décor, lavish day beds, and signature pool parties set high above the Mediterranean. With a VIP section for discerning guests, Nikki Beach delivers the ultimate luxury beach experience. During the summer, Nikki Beach hosts regular events like live music and themed pool parties.
The beach is open daily from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m., typically between April and September.
How to get there: Nikki Beach is located on the rooftop of the Fairmont Monte Carlo hotel, on Avenue des Spélugues. It’s about a 30-minute ride from Nice Airport. If you're already in Monte Carlo, the beach club is just a 10–15 minute walk from the city center.
Anjuna Beach
Where is it: Eze
What is it: Èze is a popular destination on the Côte d’Azur, and Anjuna Beach is one of its highlights. The beach offers sunbeds, umbrellas, and water activities like boat rentals, jet skis, and paddleboards.
The on-site restaurant and bar are known for their colorful decor and lively atmosphere, especially during the Monaco Grand Prix. The menu includes local favorites such as seafood, Caesar salad, and a truffle burger.
The beach is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and again from 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. On weekends, enjoy DJs and beach parties. It’s advisable to wear walking shoes as the terrain can be rocky.
How to get there: Both bus and train stops are just a few minutes' walk from the beach. Make sure you head to Èze-sur-Mer, as the walk down from Èze Village takes about 45 minutes. There is also a helicopter landing pad nearby for those who prefer a scenic mode of transportation.
Paloma Beach
Where is it: Cap-Ferrat
What is it: Located in the heart of the exclusive St‑Jean‑Cap‑Ferrat peninsula, La Paloma Beach has an irresistible charm that attracts VIP guests year after year. The club offers views of Plage de la Paloma, a pebbled cove sheltered by fragrant pine trees that buffer against the Mistral wind. Picasso, Matisse, Coco Chanel, Elton John, and Tom Cruise have all fallen for this iconic spot.
Paloma Beach Restaurant is a charming beachside eatery known for its Mediterranean cuisine and stunning sea views. Situated on a small pebble beach surrounded by lush vegetation, the menu features fresh seafood, grilled meats, and local specialties prepared with high-quality ingredients in a relaxing atmosphere. The restaurant and club have been beloved by locals and visitors for over 75 years and have welcomed numerous celebrities over time. It was also featured in the film And God Created Woman, starring Brigitte Bardot.
To fully enjoy your time at the beach, bring water shoes as fine pebbles can get hot in summer.
How to get there: La Paloma Beach is about a 20-minute drive from Nice and 15 minutes from Monaco. Street parking is limited, so a chauffeured ride may be the most convenient option. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Nice to the port of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, then walk about 10 minutes to the beach club. The bus ride takes roughly an hour.
La Mala
Where is it: Cap-D’ail
What is it: The stunning and secluded Mala Beach at Cap d’Ail, just around the bay from Monaco, is renowned for its unspoiled beauty and exclusive boutique vibe. It’s consistently voted one of the best beaches in the south of France. Alongside the public area, there are two private beach clubs, La Réserve de la Mala and Eden Plage Mala both gorgeous (and pricy), but that's Côte d’Azur luxury.
La Réserve de la Mala delivers premium service, elevated international cuisine, cocktails, and celebrity-level ambiance with spectacular views over Plage Mala.
Eden Plage Mala welcomes you to a warm seaside paradise, accessible by boat taxi or via the scenic coastal path. This hidden cove hosts live music into the early evening and offers Mediterranean dishes with excellent quality.
The beach is open daily, from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. It gets crowded in summer, so plan a weekday or late-afternoon visit to beat the crowds.
How to get there: Reaching La Mala involves a short trek down a steep hill and a few staircases. If you're driving, exit the A8 at Roquebrune-Cap-Martin or enjoy the scenic Moyenne or Basse Corniche routes to Cap d'Ail. Buses from Nice to Menton stop in central Cap d'Ail, and trains from Nice to Monaco also stop here. From the station, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the beach.
La Guerite
Where is it: Cannes
What is it: La Guérite on Île Sainte‑Marguerite, just off Cannes, is a standout beach club accessible only by boat. It’s a longtime favorite among the yacht set and international crowd, including celebrities like Elton John, Beyoncé, Jay‑Z, and the Beckhams.
The club combines casual beach vibes with elegant Mediterranean style. You can relax on a beach bed with cocktails or local wine, enjoy live music, and soak up clear sea views from its rocky terrace.
The restaurant serves refined Mediterranean dishes like bouillabaisse, octopus carpaccio, and grilled lobster in a relaxed seaside setting.
How to get there: To get to the beach club, you can only arrive by boat - it's that exclusive! It offers a shuttle service that takes guests directly to the jetty at La Guérite. Be sure to request it when making your reservation.
Carlton Beach Club
Where is it: Cannes
What is it: The Carlton Cannes was home to Cannes’s first private beach club, inaugurated in 1928. Today, the Carlton Beach Club remains a symbol of Riviera elegance with a refined sun deck, central pontoon, and soft sands extending into the Mediterranean. It’s known for relaxed Mediterranean dining, signature cocktails, and an upscale yet approachable vibe.
The club caters to discerning families, with dedicated sandcastle zones for little ones and water-skiing options for teens.
Following a major renovation completed in 2023, the Carlton now features modern amenities and environmental certifications, including Green Globe and Eco‑certified status.
Open daily and seasonally, subject to hotel events, lunch is typically served from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., with bar and snacking available until 8 p.m.
How to get there: Carlton Beach Club is located along Cannes’ Boulevard de la Croisette and is easily accessible by ride. It’s about 45 minutes from Nice Airport and just a few minutes from anywhere in central Cannes.
Plage Des Catalans
Where is it: Marseille
What is it: Marseille's Plage des Catalans is a natural gem located on the Mediterranean Sea that should not be missed. The beach is famous for its fine sand and proximity to the city center, attracting many travelers who seek delightful attractions and activities.
Named after a group of Catalan fishermen who settled in a disused infirmary in the 19th century, Plage des Catalans has been open to the public for free since 2001. Its location overlooking the Frioul Archipelago offers enchanting views that make it a seductive destination.
The beach offers a variety of dining options, with numerous restaurants and cafés nearby. During the summer season, you can enjoy amenities like beach volleyball and supervised swimming. While it may not be the most tranquil spot due to the crowds, it's always buzzing with energy and activity.
Plage des Catalans is open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. on weekdays, and non-stop from Saturday 7 a.m. to Sunday 11 p.m.
How to get there: It’s about a 30-minute walk from the Old Port to Plage des Catalans. Alternatively, you can take bus 83 to the “Les Catalans” stop, then walk a few minutes from there.
Plage Bonneveine
Where is it: Marseille
What is it: Plage Bonneveine, also known as Gaston Defferre Beach, is a fantastic addition to the Prado Beaches in Marseille and ranks among the best south of France beaches. These beaches were built in the 1970s for city slickers craving a quick escape to the Mediterranean, and this one delivers!
With its sweeping shape and palm-lined promenade, Plage Bonneveine is a classic conch-shell beach, perfect for laying out your towel and catching rays by the inviting blue Mediterranean waters.
Plage Bonneveine is also home to watersports outfitters offering kayaks and boats, so you can explore the Prado shoreline in style. For family-friendly fun, it often hosts live entertainment in the evenings, and the sand is just begging to be sculpted into sandcastles.
And let’s not forget about the food! Kiosks at Plage Bonneveine serve churros, ice creams, and crêpes, and there are plenty of all-day restaurants nearby. This beach is popular for a reason, so expect some crowds especially in peak season. And bring an umbrella or rent one as shade is rare.
How to get there: Take the metro to Rond-Point du Prado, then either walk about 15 minutes or hop on a local bus heading toward the coast. Plage Bonneveine sits at the end of Avenue Bonneveine and is about a 20-minute ride from the Vieux Port district in the old city.
Calanque de Port Pin
Where is it: Marseille
What is it: Calanque de Port Pin, nestled in the Vaufrèges district of Marseille and part of the Calanques National Park, is a peaceful cove known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, crystal-clear water, and surrounding Aleppo pine trees. It’s one of the most scenic spots in the south of France, offering a mix of wild beauty and calm swimming conditions.
The trail to the beach is short but rocky, so proper footwear is recommended. While accessible for most fitness levels, the area requires a bit of hiking and some local knowledge to navigate safely. Alternatively, you can rent a kayak or canoe from Cassis to reach Port Pin from the water. It’s a great way to explore the other nearby calanques as well.
The small beach is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in a truly natural setting. Just be mindful of slippery pebbles and the absence of lifeguards. Nearby, the Caucau peak features Neptune’s Nostril, a small hole above a submerged cave that produces a sound resembling a deep breath when the waves crash below.
The Calanques are open year-round, but access is now regulated during peak season (typically mid-June to September) to help prevent overtourism. Advance reservations may be required, so be sure to check before visiting.
How to get there: You can reach the Port-Pin calanque from Cassis in approximately 45 minutes on foot. Alternatively, take bus M02 from Cassis to Presqu’île / Val d’Or and walk from there.
Your ride to the best south of France beaches
The Côte d’Azur has long been a playground for the rich and glamorous. To explore this stunning coastline in true comfort and style, Blacklane’s City-to-Beach service is the ideal choice. With flexible scheduling, transparent pricing, and a fleet of premium vehicles, we make sure you arrive at your beach retreat relaxed and on time. Choose the Business Van for group or family getaways, Business Class for a smooth romantic ride, or First Class for the ultimate experience.
