Sponsored feature: Six of the best Cote d’Azur beaches
This feature was originally published in Selling Travel
Plage de Passable, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Facing the Bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer, Plage de Passable is a legendary spot in Cap-Ferrat that has retained its unique local character. Enjoy days spent on the golden sands with the clear blue Mediterranean lapping at your feet. Savour long lunches at Passable’s family run restaurant with views of Villefranche’s famous citadel and harbour. Days pass slowly here and it’s easy to see why this beach is a firm favourite with in-the-know locals.
Plage de la Reserve, Nice
Watch Niçois life go by at Nice’s small but perfectly formed Plage de la Reserve beach. Venture beyond the iconic pebble beaches of the Promenade des Anglais and Quai des Etats-Unis to discover La Réserve beach on Boulevard Franck Pilatte. Locals converge to snorkel the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean, sunbathe, jump off rocks and watch the ferries come and go from the port. Find a sunny spot in amongst the craggy rocks and soak up the lively atmosphere.
Plage de la Gravette, Antibes
Located between Antibes’ Old Town and Port Vauban, this wide sandy beach is protected by the centuries-old stone ramparts that surround it. The calm, clear water is perfect for swimming, especially for families with younger children. At sunset visitors gather on the white sandy beach to picnic, play football and socialise as the sun sets on this idyllic spot in Antibes. The Old Town is just minutes away, perfect for grabbing dinner or drinks in one of the Cote d’Azur’s prettiest cities.
Plage du Midi, Cannes
This pristine sweep of white sand is one of the largest sandy beaches on the Côte d’Azur. Less crowded than Cannes’ main La Croisette beach, Plage du Midi offers beach goers fine white sands, warm clear water and a place to enjoy balmy days underneath the hot Mediterranean sun. Kiosks are dotted along the promenade selling ice creams, drinks and food – try the legendary Cannes favourite Pan Bagnat, a French tuna salad sandwich, essentially a sandwich version of the classic Salade Niçoise. Delicious.
Plage de Pampelonne, Ramatuelle
On Plage de Pampelonne visitors are treated to nearly 5km of fine sand and translucent waters. The most famous beach on the Saint-Tropez peninsula is divided into five areas: Les Moulins, Les Tamaris, Patch, Les Barraques and Bonne Terrasse. Rub shoulders with glamourous patrons at chic beachside restaurants and clubs. Watch superyachts glide past heading to Saint Tropez’s famous harbour. Or simply relax on one of the Cote d’Azur’s most iconic beaches.
Plage la Petite Afrique, Beaulieu-sur-Mer
Sheltered by palm trees and tall umbrella pines, La Petite Afrique is a haven of peace as you leave Beaulieu-sur-Mer heading towards Eze and Monaco. The wide, fine-gravel beach and calm waters are ideal for families who can take shade from the midday sun under the tree canopies. Active beach goers can hire water skis, jet skis and paddle boards. Dine at swanky beach bars or more traditional snack bars. Backed by dramatic cliffs, it’s a special spot.