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

Èze Beaches

Overview

Èze offers a distinctive French Riviera experience, pairing a medieval clifftop village with a stunning shoreline below. Visitors will discover that the beaches here are primarily pebbled, not sandy, lending a rugged, natural charm to the coast. The atmosphere is one of tranquil sophistication, providing a serene escape from the party-centric beaches common elsewhere on the Côte d'Azur. With crystal-clear azure water and a dramatic mountain backdrop, the setting is perfect for relaxed swimming and soaking in the scenery.

The main shore, Eze-sur-Mer Beach, is the most convenient spot, offering a long stretch of pebbles at the base of the cliffs. For breathtaking beauty, the secluded, cliff-flanked cove of Beach Mala is consistently named one of the coast's most picturesque destinations. Nearby, Beach Paloma on the exclusive Cap-Ferrat peninsula delivers timeless glamour, while Beach Marinieres in Villefranche-sur-Mer is a popular choice for those seeking a rare sandy shore in the region.

Generally quieter than the bustling beaches in neighboring towns, Èze is ideal for those looking to unwind. For even more seclusion, smaller coves like Beach Saint Laurent offer a peaceful retreat away from the main crowds. While these highlights capture the essence of Èze's coastal appeal, they are just an introduction. Be sure to explore our longer list of beaches to find the perfect spot along this magnificent and diverse coastline.

FAQ

How do you get from Èze Village to the beach?

There are two main ways to get between the medieval Èze Village, perched high on a cliff, and Plage d'Èze (Èze Beach) at sea level. You can take the scenic Nietzsche Path, a steep hiking trail that takes about 45-60 minutes to walk down or 60-90 minutes to walk up. Alternatively, bus number 83 connects the village and the beach, with the journey taking approximately 15 minutes.

Is Èze beach sandy or pebbly?

Plage d'Èze is a pebble beach, not a sandy one. The pebbles are generally small and smooth, considered by many to be more comfortable than the larger stones found on the beaches in Nice. However, wearing water shoes is still recommended for comfort when walking along the shore and entering the water.

Can you swim at Èze beach and what is the water like?

Yes, swimming is very popular at Èze beach. The water is known for being crystal clear with a beautiful azure color, and the bay is generally calm. The beach has a gentle slope into the water, and a small portion is supervised by lifeguards during the high season (mid-June to mid-September).

Are there public facilities like showers and toilets at Èze beach?

Yes, Plage d'Èze has public facilities available for beachgoers. You can find public showers to rinse off after swimming. Public toilets are located near the first-aid post and at the nearby train station.

Can you stay in a hotel with direct beach access in Èze?

While the main village of Èze is high on the cliff, the area of Èze-sur-Mer at sea level has some accommodation options within a very short walk of the beach. For example, the Èze Beach Residence is located just a few hundred meters from the shore. However, true 'beachfront' hotels where you step directly onto the sand are not the norm here due to the terrain.

Is Èze a good destination for a family beach holiday?

Èze can be a good choice for families, particularly at Plage de la Baie d'Èze. The beach is tucked into a sheltered cove with a gentle slope into the sea, and it is supervised in the high season. There are also facilities like public showers and restaurants nearby. While the pebbles might be a consideration, the calm, clear water is great for young swimmers.

How does Èze beach compare to Villefranche-sur-Mer or Beaulieu-sur-Mer?

Èze's beach is generally considered quieter and less crowded than the more famous beaches in nearby Villefranche-sur-Mer. While both have pebbles, Villefranche's are finer. Èze offers a dramatic backdrop of steep cliffs, giving it a more rugged and natural feel. Beaulieu-sur-Mer has two main beaches, Plage des Fourmis (pebbles) and Plage de la Petite Afrique (pebbles and some gravel), which can also be busier than Èze.

Are there private beach clubs in Èze?

Yes, there are private beach clubs on Plage d'Èze, such as Anjuna Beach and Papaya Beach. These establishments offer sunbed and umbrella rentals, towel service, and have restaurants and bars for a more luxurious and comfortable beach experience.

People Also Ask

What's the best time of year to visit Èze for a beach trip?

The best time for a beach holiday in Èze is from June to September when the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea temperature is ideal for swimming. Spring (April-May) and fall (October) can also be pleasant, with fewer crowds, though the water will be cooler.

Is it easy to park near Plage d'Èze?

Parking near Plage d'Èze can be challenging as spaces are limited. There is some paid street parking available along the main road (Avenue de la Liberté) and a small number of spots at the Èze-sur-Mer train station. It is recommended to arrive early, especially during peak season, or to use public transport like the train or bus.

Are there restaurants and places to eat on or near the beach?

Yes, there are dining options directly on the beach as well as nearby. The private beach clubs, Anjuna Beach and Papaya Beach, both have popular restaurants. You can find other cafes and restaurants in the small area of Èze-sur-Mer, offering a range of dining experiences from casual to upscale.

What is the vibe of Èze's beaches? Are they for partying or relaxing?

The general atmosphere at Plage d'Èze is more tranquil and relaxed compared to the party beaches of destinations like Saint-Tropez or Cannes. It's a place to appreciate the natural beauty of the cliffs and clear water. While the private beach clubs can have a chic and lively vibe with music, the overall scene is more about sophisticated relaxation than loud parties.

Are there any hidden coves or quieter spots near the main beach?

Yes, for those seeking more seclusion, there are smaller, wilder coves and beaches nearby. The coves around Cap d'Estel are difficult to access but offer privacy and are frequented by naturists. Plage Saint-Laurent is another more confidential beach with rocks and pebbles, offering an idyllic setting away from the main crowds.

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Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Èze: Weather Today

📅 Saturday, July 26, 2025
Today offers a mix of conditions for beachgoers. Be prepared for the chance of light rain showers. The wind will be light, and stronger gusts may occur at times. There will be some clouds, but plenty of sunshine too. The sea is inviting at 25.7 °C, with small waves. The UV index will reach 6.25, so be sure to apply sun protection. The maximum air temperature will be 24.8 °C. Overall, it's an average beach day with some potential for showers, but still enjoyable with the right preparation.
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Air

Low / High16.9°C/24.8°C
Feels Like (High)26.5°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature25.7 °C
Wave Height0.4 m
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Rain

Rain Chance65%
Rainfall0.3 mm
Rain Duration2 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset06:13/21:00
Sunshine Hours13.2 hrs
UV Index6.25
Cloud Cover27%
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Wind

Speed10.8 km/h
Gusts22.3 km/h
DirectionSW

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