Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, South of France (le Midi), France

Cagnes-sur-Mer Beaches

Overview

Cagnes-sur-Mer offers a charming and relaxed seaside experience on the French Riviera, nestled between the bustling cities of Nice and Cannes. Visitors often ask if the beaches are sandy, and it's helpful to know that the town's nearly four-kilometer coastline is almost entirely made of pebbles, or 'galets'. This local feature is what gives the Mediterranean water its remarkable clarity and signature deep blue color, creating a distinct atmosphere compared to other coastal destinations.

While the local shores are pebbly, the region boasts some of the Riviera's most famous beaches. For a classic sandy escape, our editor's picks include Beach de la Salis in nearby Antibes. Other highlights that are well worth a visit include the picture-perfect cove of Beach de la Garoupe and the stunning, cliff-backed Beach Mala, a favorite on social media. For those seeking the ultimate Riviera scene, the legendary Pampelonne Beach near Saint-Tropez makes for an unforgettable day trip.

Back in town, the coastline is centered around Cros-de-Cagnes, an authentic fishing village that adds to the resort's charm. Its long, wide promenade is ideal for a stroll along the town's own beaches, which are divided by distinctive rock groynes. While our editor's picks showcase some of the most celebrated spots, you can explore many more local gems in our complete guide to the area's beaches.

Top Beaches

Plage de Cagnes

The town's main pebble beach is the most convenient and central option for anyone staying in Cagnes-sur-Mer. It runs along a recently renovated, palm-lined promenade that stretches for over three kilometers, perfect for a classic seaside stroll. This long stretch of shoreline offers a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere away from the more crowded Riviera hotspots. While the beach itself is made of the large pebbles typical of the region, its appeal lies in the beautiful, wide-open views of the Mediterranean. From the shore, you can also see the historic medieval castle of Haut-de-Cagnes perched on a nearby hill, adding a touch of history to the scenery.

FAQ

Are the beaches in Cagnes-sur-Mer sandy or pebble?

The majority of the 3.5 kilometers of beaches in Cagnes-sur-Mer are pebble beaches. These stones, often referred to as 'galets', are a characteristic feature of the coastline in this part of the French Riviera. While the pebbles contribute to the clarity and deep blue color of the water, visitors often find water shoes are necessary for comfort when walking on the shore and entering the sea. There is one small, artificially sanded beach called Grand Large Beach, but even there, pebbles are found at the water's line.

Is Cagnes-sur-Mer a good destination for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Cagnes-sur-Mer is considered a good destination for a family-friendly beach holiday. The beaches are generally safe, with calm waters and lifeguard supervision during peak season. The town offers a relaxed atmosphere compared to more bustling Riviera cities. The long, wide promenade is perfect for strolling with children, and there are numerous beachfront restaurants and activities. The town is divided into the main town, the medieval village of Haut-de-Cagnes, and the seaside area of Cros-de-Cagnes, which is particularly geared towards beach life.

Can you swim in the sea at Cagnes-sur-Mer and what is the water like?

Yes, you can swim in the sea at Cagnes-sur-Mer. The water is known for being very clear and has a distinct deep blue color, partly due to the pebble seabed. The swimming season typically runs from June to October when the water temperature is comfortably warm. Water quality is regularly monitored during the summer, with results displayed at lifeguard stations. While generally clean, it's advisable to check local conditions, as swimming can be temporarily restricted after heavy storms, particularly near the mouth of the Cagne river.

Are there private beach clubs with sunbeds in Cagnes-sur-Mer?

Yes, Cagnes-sur-Mer has several private beach clubs where you can rent sunbeds, loungers, and parasols for the day. These establishments, such as La Spiaggia, Art Beach, and Le Cigalon Plage, offer more comfort and amenities than the public beaches, including seaside restaurants, bars, and sometimes lounge areas. They provide a more luxurious and relaxing beach experience, though at a cost. Prices for sunbed rentals vary between clubs.

How do you get to the beaches from the main town or train station?

Cagnes-sur-Mer is well-connected. The town has two train stations: 'Cagnes-sur-Mer' for the town center and 'Cros-de-Cagnes' which is closer to the seaside. From the town center, you can walk to the beach in about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, during the summer months (July and August), a free electric shuttle bus (line n°45) runs from the town center directly to the beaches. The promenade along the beach is also very walkable and has a dedicated cycle path.

What is the Cros-de-Cagnes area like?

Cros-de-Cagnes is the traditional fishing village part of Cagnes-sur-Mer, located right on the seafront. It's known for its charming, authentic atmosphere with colorful fishing boats (called 'pointus'), a small fishing port, and the Saint-Pierre chapel. This area is the heart of the town's beach life, lined with a wide promenade, numerous restaurants, cafes, and shops. It offers a more relaxed, village-like feel compared to the modern town center.

Is it better to stay in Haut-de-Cagnes or near the beach in Cros-de-Cagnes?

The best place to stay depends on your holiday preference. Stay in Cros-de-Cagnes if your priority is easy beach access, seaside dining, and a lively promenade. It's ideal for a classic beach holiday. Choose Haut-de-Cagnes, the medieval hilltop village, if you prefer historic charm, stunning panoramic views, art galleries, and a quieter, more romantic atmosphere. Be aware that Haut-de-Cagnes is on a steep hill, and you will need to walk down or take a shuttle to get to the beach.

How does Cagnes-sur-Mer's beach compare to Nice or Antibes?

Cagnes-sur-Mer's beaches are generally considered more relaxed and less crowded than the main beaches in Nice and Antibes. Like Nice, Cagnes features pebble beaches along a long promenade (Promenade de la Plage). Unlike the sandy beaches found in parts of Antibes (like Plage de la Salis), Cagnes is almost entirely pebbles. While Nice is a large, bustling city, Cagnes-sur-Mer offers a more laid-back, seaside town atmosphere, serving as a good base between the two larger cities.

Beach de la Salis