The 5 Best Public Beaches in the French Riviera
Plage de la Mala, Cap d’Ail
Located within the Baie de Saint-Laurent commune near Nice, France, this secluded beach offers all of the peace and relaxation you need for the day. To access the beach, you must walk past the hill and down the steps until you reach the beautiful pebble filled beach. The beach provides plenty of space to sunbathe, and with the two restaurants nearby, you will want to stop to grab a bite after taking a swim. If you are looking for water sport activities, there are paddleboats for the entire family to enjoy, as well as stand-up paddleboards available for rent.
Cap Taillat, Ramatuelle, St-Tropez
The beach of Cap Taillat is truly a natural beauty and magical place located in the beautiful commune of Ramatuelle in the French Riviera. It boasts endless crystal blue waters and is considered a remote beach, away from many other over-crowded touristy beaches. Here you will find mostly locals and some sailboats offshore. You are able to access the beach by boat or by a short hike from Escalet beach on the Sentuere Litorale. Take a swim in the crystal clear waters, enjoy some snorkeling or take a hike up the terrain to get a breathtaking view of the beach and ocean. No matter what you do while visiting this breathtaking beach, you are sure to enjoy some much-needed rest and relaxation.
Plage de la Salis, Antibes
This sandy beach is a popular public beach for locals and tourists alike. It is described as a narrow beach and is oftentimes crowded during the summer months. There are several activities available during your day, such as football, volleyball, and of course, swimming/snorkeling. One tip to remember is to arrive before or around lunchtime when families with small children tend to leave for lunch or before the sun gets too strong. This beach has a few snack bars and is a nice area for kids to run around and enjoy some fun in the sun for the day.
Plage du Larvotto, Monaco
Monaco is known as the billionaire’s playground in the French Riviera. With its lavish lifestyles, casinos, and yearly events, there’s no doubt that the beaches of Monaco are beyond breathtaking. Plage du Larvotto is a free public beach with crystal clear blue waters, soft clean sand, and beautiful sunny skies. The water is safe to swim for all ages. During the summer months, the beach is protected from jellyfish with a net around the parameter to ensure beachgoers don’t get stung. This beach is sure to be one of the highlights of your trip in the French Riviera.
Plage Petite Afrique, Beaulieu-sur-Mer
This beautiful beach is a favorite destination for the many people who know about it. Its small, sheltered, and secluded from other popular beaches nearby, which makes it a desirable destination. Because this beach is located in a bay, you are sure to love the pleasant water temperatures almost all year round. Enjoy peace and tranquility anytime while sunbathing or take a swim to cool off in the summer heat. There are shops, snack bars, restaurants, and anything else you need within walking distance. You may also notice a short walking trail around Cap Ferrat that is perfect for an afternoon walk by yourself or with family. Don’t miss out on the crystal clear water and gorgeous scenery.