The 10 Best Beach Towns South of France – 2025 Update
When it comes to the best beach towns south of France, the region offers a nearly endless variety of charming locales that promise relaxation, beauty, and culture all rolled into one.
Whether you’re dreaming of picturesque coastal views or vibrant local communities, these towns, which are all conveniently situated close to the sea, deliver an experience that could be described as nothing less than remarkable.
Table of Contents
Methodology
To create this list, we considered key aspects that travelers usually prioritize, such as nearby amenities, attractions, and that special feeling of being connected to the coastline. All towns selected are situated within 15 minutes or less from the beach, ensuring a truly coastal experience. Each destination also features unique qualities, from rich histories to lively markets or serene hideaways.
The 10 Best Beach Towns in South of France
10. Menton
Population: 28,000
Location: Check on Google Maps
First on our list is Menton, a town that could be called the “Pearl of France,” located near the border with Italy. It’s just slightly over an hour’s drive from Nice and offers colorful buildings nestled against green hillsides.
The beaches here tend to be a mix of pebbles and sand, but they are consistently beautiful and rarely crowded. As a matter of fact, the town’s charm lies in its understated elegance and citrus-scented air, thanks to its celebrated lemon festival. You’ll find the Jean Cocteau Museum and Baroque architecture adding even more allure.
9. Saint-Tropez
Population: 4,300
Location: Check on Google Maps
Saint-Tropez, located along the Côte d’Azur, is a globally recognized hotspot. Its name conjures images of luxury yachts and lively nightlife, yet it’s also a place of natural beauty. The beaches here are extensive, with Pampelonne being a top choice.
What’s really interesting is that despite its reputation, Saint-Tropez still has quieter spots, particularly in the off-season. Art galleries, Provençal markets, and pastel-colored buildings ensure that you’ll be occupied beyond sunbathing.
8. Cassis
Population: 7,200
Location: Check on Google Maps
Cassis, which sits just 45 minutes from Marseille, is known for its dramatic cliffs and sparkling turquoise waters. The Calanques National Park is nearby, offering visitors incredible opportunities for hiking or boating through fjord-like inlets.
This picturesque fishing village tends to have a laid-back atmosphere that’s both inviting and distinctly Mediterranean. The local wine, often white, pairs perfectly with freshly caught seafood from the harbor.
7. Antibes
Population: 75,000
Location: Check on Google Maps
Antibes strikes a balance between old-world charm and modern flair, situated just 20 minutes from Nice by car. This town is home to sandy beaches, as well as the Picasso Museum, housed in a 14th-century castle.
Its old town, with narrow cobblestone streets, lively markets, and independent shops, often feels timeless. Antibes also boasts a marina full of yachts, reminding visitors of its modern, cosmopolitan appeal.
6. Bandol
Population: 8,300
Location: Check on Google Maps
Bandol is a smaller, more intimate coastal town located about an hour from Marseille. It’s famous for its wines, particularly its rosé, which is a must-try when visiting. The beaches here are sandy and family-friendly, while the town itself tends to have an unpretentious charm.
In many respects, Bandol feels like a haven for those looking to escape the busier hubs of the Côte d’Azur.
5. La Ciotat
Population: 35,000
Location: Check on Google Maps
La Ciotat is a coastal gem that might surprise you with its mix of industrial history and scenic beauty. Located under an hour from Marseille, it features the first cinema ever built, the Eden Théâtre.
Beaches like Plage de la Grande Mer are great for swimming or lounging. By the way, La Ciotat is also home to cliffs and coves that are just begging to be explored, especially by kayakers.
4. Villefranche-sur-Mer
Population: 5,000
Location: Check on Google Maps
This small but stunning town is located just minutes from Nice. Villefranche-sur-Mer offers a blend of charm and convenience, with its colorful buildings cascading down to the sea.
The bay is among the deepest natural harbors in the Mediterranean, making it a favorite for boaters. By the way, the local old town has a vibe that’s both relaxed and slightly elegant.
3. Sanary-sur-Mer
Population: 16,000
Location: Check on Google Maps
Sanary-sur-Mer is often described as one of the most beautiful towns along this coastline. The harbor is filled with traditional fishing boats called “pointus,” creating an authentic and picturesque setting.
The local markets and art galleries are worth exploring. As a matter of fact, this town feels like a quintessential Provençal escape, where life moves a little slower.
2. Hyères
Population: 55,000
Location: Check on Google Maps
Hyères boasts a rich history, seen in its medieval old town and ancient castle ruins. It’s also a gateway to the Îles d’Hyères, a group of islands known for their unspoiled beaches and nature reserves.
Meanwhile, the mainland offers sandy shores and botanical gardens. Hyères often feels like a blend of culture and tranquility.
1. Cannes
Population: 75,000
Location: Check on Google Maps
Cannes, situated along the famous French Riviera, is known worldwide for its annual film festival that draws celebrities, industry insiders, and curious visitors alike. But beyond the glitz and red carpets, the city offers something for every traveler.
The beaches, whether private or public, tend to be soft and sandy, making them perfect for sunbathing or people-watching along the iconic Boulevard de la Croisette. That being said, Cannes isn’t just about luxury; its old quarter, Le Suquet, gives visitors a taste of the city’s more authentic side, with winding cobbled streets, charming restaurants, and a stunning hilltop view of the coastline.
In some respects, Cannes combines history with modernity in a way that few other places can. The harbor is always buzzing with yachts, yet there’s a sense of timelessness in places like the Marché Forville, a local market offering fresh produce and regional delicacies.
By the way, Cannes is not just a summer destination—its Mediterranean climate means that even during the cooler months, the weather remains mild, making it an ideal year-round getaway. Whether you’re interested in upscale shopping, fine dining, or simply enjoying a walk along the marina, this town tends to impress.
Another highlight is the nearby Lérins Islands, which are just a short boat ride away. They offer a quieter escape from the busy streets of Cannes, with unspoiled nature, historic sites like the Fort Royal, and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming.
With all this in mind, it’s pretty clear why Cannes remains one of the best beach towns south of France, offering a blend of glamour, history, and scenic beauty that appeals to many types of visitors.