Best time to visit Provence & French Riviera

Beach Season in Provence & French Riviera

Provence is famous not only for wine and lavender ​but also for the beautiful beaches and the bright-blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea

Best time: June–October

Beach Season
Beach Season
Beach Season
Beach Season

The French Riviera is famous for its gorgeous sandy beaches. Here you'll find a beach that suits your needs whatever they may be. For example, if you're looking for a noisy, busy, and vibrant city beach you'll find it in Cannes, right next to the Palais des Festivals where the film festival takes place. If you want to meet a celebrity, for example, you should aim for the area around Nice and Villefranche​-sur-Mer where there are white sandy beaches and a bohemian atmosphere. For windsurfing and kitesurfing go to Plage de l’Almanarre in Hyères or the beaches around Marseille when the mistral winds are blowing. In Saint-Tropez, there are some chic beaches with all the facilities and exclusive clubs right next to them. And, of course, there are the Frioul islands where unlike the continental part, the beaches are small and rocky, ​and the water is a pure azure blue.

Practical info

When is the best time to visit Provence & French Riviera?

June to October is the ideal time to visit Provence & French Riviera because of the warm and sunny weather. One can also plunge into the perfect sea during this time. However, July and August see an influx of tourists, so it is advised to visit either in June or September for thinner crowds while still experiencing excellent weather. Show more

Where can I find a quiet and bohemian atmosphere on the French Riviera?

The region around Nice and Villefranche-sur-Mer is the perfect location for those looking for a laid-back, artistic vibe with white sandy beaches. Villefranche is a charming fishing village with pastel-colored houses and a picturesque harbor, while Nice has a vibrant arts scene, rich history, and is a bigger city. Show more

What are the main windsurfing and kitesurfing spots in the region?

The beaches in Marseille are an ideal location for kitesurfing enthusiasts, while Leucate in the Languedoc region and Almanarre beach in Hyères offer excellent conditions for kitesurfing and windsurfing activities. Plage de l’Almanarre in Hyères has strong winds, making it a popular spot for windsurfing. Show more

Where can I find exclusive clubs and facilities on the beaches in Saint-Tropez?

Plage de Pampelonne and Club 55 are the most popular beaches with beach chairs and umbrellas on rent. Bagatelle Beach and Nikki Beach are the places to be for partying and socializing. However, for a quieter spot, Plage des Salins offers crystal-clear water and is a smaller beach as compared to others. Show more

What makes the Frioul islands different from the continental part of Provence & French Riviera?

Unlike the continental part of Provence & French Riviera, the Frioul islands have small rocky beaches and deep azure blue waters. These islands also provide opportunities for hiking, exploring, with stunning views and a rich history. The Frioul islands are the perfect destination for those seeking a beautiful and quiet escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin