Mention the French Riviera and people will immediately think of its glamorous summer scene. But its fame was actually born as a winter destination. As early as the 18th century, a taste for travel developed among the British aristocracy, eager to escape the harsh English winters. If you’re planning a winter escape to the Côte d’Azur, here are some of the best beaches to visit.
1Plage de la Garoupe (Cap d’Antibes)
Located in the heart of Cap d’Antibes, Plage de la Garoupe was the home of Garoupe Beach, a private beach club now long closed. It hosted many famous visitors including John F. Kennedy (in his 20s, before he became US President), and French singers Edith Piaf and Sacha Distel. In winter, the beach becomes a quiet haven, with panoramic views over the bay and the snow-capped mountains in the distance. If you are a keen walker, embark on the 5km Cap d’Antibes coastal walk (Sentier du Littoral), a picturesque coastal path that ends at Villa Eilenroc. PLEASE NOTE: The Garoupe beach is currently getting restored to its original beauty, but the Littoral walk around the Cap is still open. Construction work will pause over the summer!
2Plage du Ponteil (Antibes)
Another gem in Antibes, Plage du Ponteil offers a long sandy stretch, as well as a broad promenade, perfect for a winter stroll. With the Old Town’s ramparts and the Alps as a dramatic backdrop, this beach (with plenty of benches along the promenade) provides a serene setting for reflection. And don’t forget to thank your lucky stars that you are visiting outside of the summer hustle and bustle. For a longer stroll, you can continue along the promenade to Plage de la Salis which ends where Cap d’Antibes begins. Or walk into the Old Town, stopping for a coffee (and brunch?) at Café du Cap.
3Plage de la Gravette (Antibes)
Located near the historic Old Town of Antibes, Plage de la Gravette offers a charming setting for those wishing to have a moment to themselves. With its calm waters and close views of the ancient ramparts, this sandy beach nestled in a small cove is perfect for a winter stroll. If you want to please your step tracker, head up to the ramparts. Then continue alongside the Port Vauban harbour to catch a glimpse of the imposing 10m high Le Nomade sculpture.
4Plage du Midi (Golfe Juan)
Stretching between the Camille Rayon Port in Golfe Juan to Juan-les-Pins, this sandy beach is a firm favourite among locals. Perfect for a lazy Sunday afternoon or a picnic with the kids. Wade into the sea up to your knees to practice gentle water aerobics or, provided you have a wetsuit, you could go in for a refreshing swim. Please note that dogs are not allowed, even on a leash (although between October and mid-April several locals do tend to walk their dogs along the shore). Normally, you can continue your stroll all the way to Juan-les-Pins and finish with an aperol spritz and some people-watching at one of the restaurants on the promenade, but at the moment there is a lot of building work going on so the promenade is not accessible. It’s due to finish before summer 2025.
5Promenade des Anglais (Nice)
While not a traditional sandy beach, the Promenade des Anglais in Nice offers magnificent views of the Mediterranean Sea and Nice’s famous pebble beach. As you walk along this iconic promenade, lined with palm trees and Belle Époque buildings, take time to soak in the winter sun. Chairs dotted along the Promenade offer the perfect excuse for a rest and to admire the tranquil ocean.
6Plage de la Mala (Cap d’Ail)
Tucked away in Cap d’Ail, near to Monaco, Plage de la Mala is one of the most spectacular beach spots on the Riviera coast. With its turquoise waters and rocky cliffs, this secluded beach provides a peaceful backdrop for a leisurely winter stroll and breathtaking views of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Only accessible via a scenic but challenging coastal path, it is not recommended for families with babies in strollers or people with mobility issues.
7Plage Paloma (Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat)
Found on the exclusive peninsula of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Plage Paloma is a hidden treasure with pristine waters and dramatic coastal scenery. A perfect place to admire the glorious views of the surrounding cliffs and villas. This pebble beach has attracted many famous names to its shore, including the painter Henri Matisse, and Winston Churchill. And more recently Elton John and Tom Cruise have been sighted here.
8Plage de la Baumette (Agay)
Situated between Saint-Raphaël and Cannes, Plage de la Baumette offers striking views of the Massif de l’Estérel mountain range. In fact, surrounded by lush greenery and rocky coves, this beach is sure to inspire the hidden artist in you. So bring a sketchbook and a couple of pencils, just in case.
9Plage de Pampelonne (Saint-Tropez)
Made famous by actress Brigitte Bardot whose iconic film Et Dieu Créa La Femme (And God Created Woman) was shot here in 1955, the Plage de Pampelonne stretches along a 4.5km coastline. Known for its celebrity sightings in summer, this beach becomes a calm oasis in winter, to the delight of visitors. Enjoy a brisk walk along its sandy shores, lined with quaint beach clubs and admire the shimmering water stretching as far as the eye can see.
10Promenade de la Croisette (Cannes)
Finally, if your idea of a walk is a 15 minute stroll followed by some people watching, then this is the spot for you. Overrun by actors and wannabe starlets during the Cannes Film Festival, the Promenade de la Croisette belongs to locals during the winter. Comfortable blue metal chairs facing the sea are available all along this famous promenade as are coffee vans and fluffy crêpes (near the Palais side). Or you can hire a sun lounger (matelas) on one of the private beaches open during the winter (pictured above). If you’re feeling energetic, join a game of beach volleyball on one of the public beaches after your stroll.
