The Côte d'Azur, a sun-drenched paradise along the Mediterranean coast of France, is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, glamorous resorts, and, of course, its stunning beaches.
From secluded coves to expansive stretches of golden sand, this region offers a diverse array of seaside treasures that cater to every beach lover's desires. Join us as we embark on a captivating journey to unveil the crème de la crème of the Côte d'Azur's coastal gems.
Below, you'll find a list organized by primary locations, each of which may encompass various beaches.
Easily one of the best beaches on the French Riviera, Cap Taillat (one of St. Tropez’s three caps) offers a secluded escape with its pristine white sands and clear turquoise waters. This hidden gem boasts a secluded beach, providing a sense of exclusivity and tranquility amidst the rugged cliffs and lush greenery.
With a history dating back thousands of years, Cap Taillat has been a favored destination for adventurers and explorers throughout the ages. Legend has it that even Julius Caesar himself sought refuge in these idyllic surroundings during his campaigns in Gaul.
Renowned for its natural beauty and exclusivity, Cap Taillat has attracted its fair share of celebrities over the years. From Hollywood stars to European royalty, the beach's allure has captivated the hearts of the rich and famous, making it a coveted destination for those seeking privacy and luxury.
Cap Taillat is about 20 km from Saint-Tropez which you can easily reach by bus from the city of Saint Raphael (the bus station is next to St. Raphael Valescure train station).
To reach Cap Taillat; visitors can:
Take the car, get off near the beautiful Escalet Beach, and then take a 30-minute hike via the “Sentier du littoral” leading to Cape Taillat beach
Take a boat from Saint Raphael (if you like sports, here is an interesting solution to consider)
Pampelonne Beach: A Legendary Playground for the Jet Set
Remember that you can easily reach Saint-Tropez by bus from the city of Saint Raphael (1 hour away by train from Nice). The bus station in Saint Raphael is next to the St. Raphael Valescure train station.
This renowned stretch of golden sand stretches for nearly 5 kilometers and is lined with vibrant beach clubs and upscale amenities. Despite its popularity, Pampelonne Beach offers plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the sun and sea, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
With its glamorous reputation, Pampelonne Beach has attracted celebrities and jet-setters from around the world for decades. From Brigitte Bardot to Jay-Z and Beyoncé, this iconic beach has been a playground for the rich and famous, adding to its allure and charm.
To reach Pampelonne Beach, you can:
A- take a short drive or taxi ride from the center of Saint-Tropez (10 min and you are there) or,
B- Take the bus (No. 875) from Saint Tropez.
C- Alternatively, you can arrive by boat for a truly luxurious experience, soaking up the sun and sea breeze as you approach this legendary destination.
Once in Pampelonne, add an extra dose of fun to your experience by exploring the coast either by kayak or sea scooter.
Tahiti Beach: A Slice of Polynesian Paradise
Located at the farthest end of Pampelonne beach and right where the coast curves, Tahiti Beach offers a taste of tropical bliss right on the shores of Saint-Tropez. With its soft, powdery sand and crystal-clear waters, this beach exudes a laid-back, Polynesian vibe that instantly transports you to a world of relaxation.
Historically, Tahiti Beach has been frequented by celebrities and jet-setters seeking a taste of luxury and relaxation. Over the years, famous figures such as Brigitte Bardot and Mick Jagger have been spotted enjoying the sun and sea at Tahiti Beach, adding to its allure and glamour.
It could be useful to know that there is a nudist area between Pampelonne Beach and Tahiti Beach.
The directions to reach Tahiti Beach are the same as those for reaching Pampelonne Beach.
Once there, make a stop at the Tahiti Beach Beach Club for a nice lunch.
Canoubiers Beach is known for its peaceful ambiance and secluded setting, making it a favorite among those seeking a serene beach experience away from the crowds (and yet remaining so close to Saint Tropez city center).
Historically, Canoubiers Beach has been a popular destination for artists, writers, and aristocrats seeking inspiration and relaxation. Figures such as Pablo Picasso and Coco Chanel were known to frequent the area, drawn to its natural beauty and serene atmosphere.
Today, this cozy sandy beach continues to attract visitors from around the world, seeking a taste of the French Riviera's glamorous past.
It’s a 30-minute walk from the center of Saint Tropez to Canoubiers and if you are visiting Grimaud and Cogolin, consider a catamaran excursion to Canoubiers Beach to discover the coast and enjoy a paddling session to the shore.
Saint-Raphaël is home to the breathtaking Sentier du Litoral, a coastal trail that unveils a series of hidden coves and secluded beaches that are unique due to the distinctive red color of their rocks.
Some of the splendid pearls close to Saint Raphael can be reached through the above-mentioned trail. Still, one more interesting way to explore and discover (especially the Calanques) is by kayak or boat since they allow for unforgettable dives into otherwise inaccessible sea spots.
Don’t expect glamorous sites unless you believe that nature has its way of looking glamourous 😀
