The Best Beaches Along the French Riviera

The French Riviera has been drawing travellers to its shores for generations. Between Saint-Tropez and Menton, you’ll find long sandy beaches, hidden coves and crystal-clear. Whether you’re planning a slow day in the sun or simply looking for your next swim stop, these are the beaches we’d always recommend when visiting the beautiful Code D’ Azure.

Tucked away along the edge of Cap d’Antibes, Plage de l’Olivette is less of a traditional beach and more of a postcard brought to life. The tiny harbour is lined with colourful wooden fishing boats, calm water and a peaceful stretch of coastline that feels untouched by time. It’s the perfect place for an early morning wander, a quiet swim or simply sitting by the water and watching the boats drift in and out.

Probably the Riviera’s most famous stretch of sand, Pampelonne is where beach clubs, barefoot lunches and long summer afternoons all come together. Stretching for nearly five kilometres, there’s plenty of space to find your own corner, whether you’re spending the day at NIKKI Beach or simply laying down a towel and watching the yachts drift by. 

Named after Paloma Picasso, this sheltered beach has long been a favourite for those looking for somewhere a little quieter. Surrounded by pine trees and overlooking the cliffs of Èze, it’s one of the Riviera’s most beautiful places for an afternoon swim. The water is crystal blue, and somehow everything moves just a little slower here. 

Set against one of the prettiest harbours in France, Plage des Marinières is perfect for an easy beach day. The water stays calm thanks to the sheltered bay, making it ideal for swimming, while the colourful town sits just a short walk away when you’re ready for lunch or an afternoon wander.

A little MOKE secret. We stumbled across Plage du Talon whilst filming our latest Riviera campaign, and it quickly became our favourite spot. Hidden away on the back side of the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat coastline, this quiet rocky cove feels worlds away from the Riviera’s busier beaches. The water is impossibly clear, perfect for a swim, while the walk down surrounded by pine trees make it an idyllic spot to slow down for an hour or two. If you’re looking to escape the crowds and experience a more untouched side of the Côte d’Azur, this is the place.

Hidden beneath dramatic cliffs, Mala feels like one of the Riviera’s best-kept secrets. Reached by a scenic coastal path, the beach rewards the extra effort with some of the clearest water on the Côte d’Azur. Pack light, take your time, and don’t expect to leave in a hurry

Tucked away on the quieter western side of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Plage de Passable is one of the Riviera’s hidden gems. Sheltered from the wind and overlooking the water towards Villefranche-sur-Mer, it’s known for its calm waters and laid-back atmosphere. Stay a little longer and you’ll be rewarded with one of the most beautiful sunsets on the Côte d’Azur. Order a chilled glass of rosé, settle in by the water, and watch the sun slowly disappear behind the hills. There’s no better way to end a Riviera day.

Some beaches are made for people watching. Others are made for switching off completely. The French Riviera has both. The beauty is not in trying to see them all, but in finding the one you'll want to return to every summer. And with wind in your hair and sun on your face in a MOKE, getting there is all part of the experience.