Avoid Paris This Summer: Discover Southern France’s Beaches

By GR on May 23

The 2024 Olympics are coming to Paris, which means packed public transportation and gridlocked traffic. Instead, why not hunt for the ultimate beach getaway in the South of France? Trust me, it’s not just about the fancy wine and cheese (though those are definite perks). The beaches down there? Absolute game-changers. Picture yourself lounging on the softest sands or swimming in the bluest waters – it’s all there.

Southern France is perfect for exploring the captivating history of the Riviera in the Côte D’Azur, renowned for its stylish yachting scene. With Monaco, Antibes, and Cannes all within close proximity, there’s no shortage of options. Plus, all these locations are just a half-day train ride from Paris.

And if you still want a taste of the Olympics, the Rugby Sevens competition will be held in Monaco, while the Olympic World Sailing venue is set in Marseille. Both can be easily accessed by a short train or car ride (with less traffic than Paris) from Cannes.

Saint-Tropez: The Celeb-Studded Beach Paradise

First up, let’s talk Saint-Tropez. Yeah, it’s kinda the hotspot for celebs and mega yachts, but don’t let that intimidate you. The beaches are to die for, and there’s a vibe for everyone. Whether you wanna party it up or find a quiet corner to soak up the sun, Saint-Tropez has got your back.

Plage de Pampelonne

One of the most famous beaches here is Plage de Pampelonne. This stretch of golden sand is lined with beach clubs like Club 55, where you can enjoy a luxurious day by the sea with gourmet food and cocktails. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, and the beach itself offers a mix of lively spots and more secluded areas.

Tip: Highly recommend making reservations at Club 55 as soon as possible or you’ll be left to fend for yourself in the sandy beach area if anywhere at all.  It’s also on the other side of the peninsula so make sure you allocate time to get there as Ubers and taxi’s are not that reliable during high season.

Quiet Retreats

For a more relaxed experience, head to quieter beaches like Plage des Salins or Plage de l’Escalet. These spots are less crowded and offer stunning natural beauty, ideal for a peaceful day of sunbathing and swimming.  Whether you have a high or medium budget, we have you covered with a couple of great options exactly where you want to be.

Nice: Vibrant and Picturesque

Then there’s Nice. It’s more than just a pebble beach scene; the place is buzzing with life. Walk the Promenade des Anglais or grab some gelato and watch the sunset. The vibe? 100% chill and endlessly picturesque.

Tip: Nice is a great spot for first timers. Less luxurious (and generally more affordable) than Cannes or St. Tropez, while still being magical.  Still, the prices can be competitive during high season.

Below are two beautiful options; one a cute, French Bed & Breakfast style located right by the main beach. The other, a traditional Côte D’Azur hotel on the side for a little more space and fewer crowds.

Promenade des Anglais

The Promenade des Anglais is the heart of Nice’s beachfront. This iconic walkway stretches along the coast, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, rollerblading, or cycling. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of cafes and restaurants to enjoy a refreshing drink or a light meal.

Castle Hill

For breathtaking views over Nice and the Bay of Angels, make sure to visit Castle Hill (Colline du Château). This historic site offers panoramic vistas and beautiful gardens, making it a great spot for a picnic or a relaxing break from the beach.

Cannes: The Ultimate Summer Getaway for the Discerning Traveler

If you’ve been to Nice or desire to live like the stars that frequent it in May during the Film Festival, head straight to Cannes. As summer approaches, the allure of crystalline blue waters, vibrant cosmopolitan scenes, and exclusive events beckons the well-heeled traveler to the stunning shores of Cannes. Nestled in the heart of the French Riviera, Cannes is not just a resort town; it symbolizes prestige, with a flair of luxurious relaxation and high-profile happenings.

Exquisite Beaches: Sun, Sand, and Sophistication

Cannes is internationally renowned for its beaches, and rightfully so. The coastline is adorned with a mix of public and private beaches, each providing a unique atmosphere to cater to the desires of any traveler.

Plage du Midi is perfect for those looking for a quieter, more laid-back experience, while the beaches along Boulevard de la Croisette offer a more glamorous experience, lined with upscale beach clubs and restaurants. Here, you can indulge in a private cabana at Plage Croisette, where the service is impeccable, and the Mediterranean views are unparalleled.

For an exclusive retreat, spend a day at the iconic Plage Royale or the Z Plage by Hotel Martinez. These private beaches are famous for their luxurious facilities, gourmet dining, and for attracting celebrities, especially during the Cannes Film Festival. Sipping a cocktail while lounging on designer sunbeds, you might just find yourself next to Hollywood royalty.

Cultural Riches: Beyond the Beach

While the allure of sandy beaches and turquoise waters is omnipresent, Cannes also offers rich cultural experiences that make it a well-rounded travel destination. Take an afternoon stroll through Le Suquet, the old town, where the winding cobbled streets echo tales of old seafarers and fishermen. Here, at the top of the hill, you are treated with a panoramic view of Cannes that is simply breathtaking.

No visit to Cannes is complete without exploring its prestigious art scene. Musee de la Castre offers a collection of Mediterranean antiquities, and Espace Miramar showcases contemporary works. However, it’s during the annual Cannes Film Festival that the city truly shines. While the festival is predominantly industry-centered, the atmosphere around the city is electric, with film screenings and events accessible to the public.

Summer Fireworks

Every summer, Cannes hosts in its bay, one of the most prestigious Festival of Pyrotechnic Art in the world. After 3 years of competition, the medalists of the Vestale d’Argent meet on the Croisette for six shows and compete for the coveted Vestale d’Or! Masters of artifice and the art of synchronization, they will use all their creativity to offer carefully orchestrated pyro-musical fires.

Each performance given on the seafront is acclaimed by more than 100,000 spectators and a jury of specialists, witnesses of these spectacular games. This extraordinary event offers magical moments made up of successive scenes combining high-precision pyrotechnic products and music from the most famous film soundtracks.”

Make early reservations to one of the many beach clubs along the Croisette; we highly recommend the Carlton Beach Club.

Gastronomic Delights

Cannes is a culinary paradise, boasting an array of restaurants that offer everything from traditional French cuisine to modern gastronomic innovations. For a memorable dining experience, La Palme d’Or, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant located at Hotel Martinez, provides not only a feast for the palate but also for the eyes with its stunning views of the bay.

Alternatively, venture into the old town for authentic local flavors served in charming bistros. Seafood enthusiasts will revel in the fresh catches served at Astoux et Brun, known for its divine oysters and seafood platters.

Tip: Highly recommend La Mome restaurant. It’s quite the experience of amazing food, great people watching and a fun atmosphere.

Tip #2: For nighttime fun, I recommend Baoli Beach and also La Petite Maison for dinner.

Stay in Style

Accommodations in Cannes combine comfort, luxury, and impeccable service. The iconic Hotel Carlton is not just a place to stay; it is part of the Cannes heritage, known for hosting celebrities and discerning travelers alike. For a more intimate experience, consider staying at a boutique hotel like Le Cavendish, which offers a unique blend of French elegance and a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Tip: Two relatively economic options are listed below, exactly where you want to be. If you don’t pick these, just make sure you’re not on the hill side of the highway (be either in old town or along the Croisette) and that you get an apartment or hotel with air conditioning. Don’t assume they all have one.

No matter what you decide, this summer, elevate your travel experiences by adding Cannes to your bucket list and immerse yourself in the epitome of global luxury. You won’t regret it.

Îles de Lérins

Comprised of Île Sainte-Marguerite and Île Saint-Honorat, these islands just off the coast from Cannes are rich in history and natural beauty. Île Sainte-Marguerite features the historic Fort Royal and scenic beaches, while Île Saint-Honorat is home to Cistercian monks and the Abbey of Lérins, famous for producing acclaimed wines and liqueurs.

La Guérite, located on Île Sainte-Marguerite, is a renowned restaurant offering exquisite Mediterranean cuisine. Established in 1935, it features fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients. The seaside location provides breathtaking views of the azure waters and the Cannes coastline. La Guérite’s ambiance and culinary excellence make it a must-visit for anyone exploring the Îles de Lérins.

Porquerolles Island: A Hidden Gem

For something a bit more low-key, check out Porquerolles Island. It’s a short ferry ride away from the mainland but feels like a world apart. Crystal clear waters, trails for days, and beaches that look straight out of a postcard. It’s the perfect spot to disconnect and just enjoy the natural beauty.

Pristine Beaches and Nature Trails

Porquerolles is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the South of France. Plage Notre Dame, with its fine white sand and turquoise waters, is often rated among the best beaches in Europe. The island also boasts extensive nature trails, perfect for hiking or biking, offering scenic views of the coastline and lush landscapes.

Calanques National Park: Nature’s Own Swimming Pools

And hey, let’s not skip the Calanques National Park near Marseille. Not your typical sandy beach, but the secluded coves surrounded by cliffs? Absolutely breathtaking. It’s like nature’s own secret swimming pools.

Exploring the Calanques

The Calanques are a series of rocky inlets that stretch along the coast between Marseille and Cassis. Each calanque offers its own unique charm, from the deep blue waters of Calanque d’En-Vau to the more accessible and family-friendly Calanque de Sormiou. Whether you prefer hiking along the rugged trails or kayaking through the clear waters, the Calanques provide a stunning backdrop for outdoor adventures.

So, pack your sunnies and sunscreen, ’cause the South of France is calling. Whether it’s for the luxe life, the stunning views, or just some serious beach time, you won’t regret it. Seriously, don’t just take my word for it, go see it for yourself. You can thank me later! 🌞🌊🍹