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

Grimaud Beaches

Overview

Nestled in the heart of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, Grimaud offers a charming and relaxed beach holiday experience. It stands as a more discreet and family-friendly alternative to the glamour of Saint-Tropez, providing a serene escape with stunning views across the bay. The area is divided between the historic medieval village perched in the hills and the unique lakeside town of Port Grimaud on the coast, giving visitors varied experiences just a short distance from each other. With its beautiful, predominantly sandy beaches and calmer atmosphere, Grimaud is an ideal choice for those seeking the beauty of the French Riviera without the bustling crowds.

Grimaud's coastline caters to every type of beachgoer. For those seeking the iconic Riviera scene, the legendary shores of Pampelonne Beach are nearby, famous for its vibrant beach clubs. In contrast, Plage de l'Escalet offers a wilder, more natural setting with secluded coves perfect for snorkeling. Families will appreciate the calm, shallow waters at Beach de la Bouillabaisse, while those looking for a local vibe can unwind at Salins Beach - Pentagon Beach. The main town beach, Plage de Port Grimaud Sud, provides easy access and ample space for a classic day on its golden sands.

While the famous beaches draw many visitors, Grimaud also hides quieter gems waiting to be discovered. Picturesque spots like Plage des Cigales, known for its charming lighthouse, offer a more intimate beach day. Though the old village is set back from the sea, the coast is easily reached by a short drive or a scenic cycle path. Whether you are looking for lively shores or peaceful coves, our comprehensive guide features a longer list of beaches to help you find your perfect spot in the sun.

FAQ

Is Grimaud a good destination for a beach holiday?

Yes, Grimaud is an excellent destination for a beach holiday, offering a different experience from its bustling neighbors. It provides a more relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with beautiful sandy beaches that look out onto the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. While it has the charm and beauty of the French Riviera, it's generally considered a more discreet and affordable alternative to Saint-Tropez, making it ideal for families and couples seeking both relaxation and access to the region's highlights.

What are the beaches in Grimaud like, sandy or pebbly?

The main beaches in the Grimaud area, such as Plage de Port Grimaud and Plage du Gros Pin, are predominantly sandy. Plage de Port Grimaud is known for its long stretch of golden sand and shallow waters, making it very popular. Some smaller coves or less frequented beaches like Plage des Cigales might have a mix of sand and some pebbles, particularly at the water's edge.

How do you get to the beach from the old Grimaud Village?

The medieval Grimaud Village is located up in the hills, about 6 km from the coast. To get to the beaches at Port Grimaud, you can drive, which takes about 15 minutes, or use public transport. The Zou! bus line 874 connects the village to Port Grimaud. For those who are active, there is also a dedicated 6 km cycle path that runs from the village down to the coast, offering a scenic route through vineyards.

Which beach in Grimaud is best for families with children?

Plage de Port Grimaud is widely considered the best beach for families. It features a long, wide stretch of soft sand, and the sea is calm and slopes gently, making it safe for children to swim and play. The beach is also well-equipped with amenities like toilets, showers, lifeguard surveillance during high season, and numerous nearby cafes and water sports rentals like pedalos.

Is it better to stay near the beach in Port Grimaud or in the medieval village?

This depends on your preference. Stay in Port Grimaud if your priority is being steps from the beach, enjoying water activities, and having restaurants and boat access readily available. It's a lively, resort-style atmosphere. Stay in the medieval Grimaud Village for a more authentic, historic, and tranquil experience with stunning views, quaint cobblestone streets, and a local feel, but be prepared to travel to reach the sea.

Should I stay in Grimaud or Saint-Tropez for a beach vacation?

Choosing between Grimaud and Saint-Tropez depends on your holiday style. Stay in Saint-Tropez if you're looking for glamorous beach clubs, high-end shopping, and vibrant nightlife. Choose Grimaud for a more relaxed, family-oriented, and often more affordable vacation, while still having easy access to the entire Gulf. Grimaud's beaches are known for being beautiful and slightly less crowded, offering a calmer atmosphere with stunning views of Saint-Tropez across the bay.

Are the beaches in Grimaud free to access?

Yes, most of the beaches in Grimaud, including the main Plage de Port Grimaud, have large public sections that are completely free to access. While there are some private beach clubs ('plages privées') that offer sunbed and umbrella rentals with restaurant service, there is always ample public space where you can lay your own towel at no cost.

Can you swim in the sea at Grimaud and what is the water like?

Absolutely. The beaches in Grimaud are excellent for swimming. The water in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez is generally calm, clear, and clean, with pleasant temperatures, especially from June to September when it can reach up to 26-27°C. The water quality is regularly monitored, and Grimaud has been awarded for its management of bathing water quality.

People Also Ask

What's the best time of year to visit Grimaud for a beach holiday?

The best time for a beach holiday in Grimaud is from late May to September. June and September are ideal as they offer pleasant, warm weather, warm sea temperatures, and fewer crowds than the peak months of July and August. While July and August have the hottest weather, the beaches and roads in the region become extremely busy.

Are there beach clubs in Grimaud?

Yes, there are several beach clubs and restaurants located directly on the beaches in Grimaud, such as on Plage de Port Grimaud and Plage de Beauvallon. These establishments offer sun lounger and parasol rentals, and you can enjoy lunch, dinner, or drinks with your feet in the sand. They offer a more comfortable and serviced beach experience compared to the public sections.

Are there any quieter, more hidden beaches near Grimaud?

Yes, while Port Grimaud is the largest and most popular, there are smaller, often quieter beaches. Plage des Cigales is known for its picturesque setting with a small lighthouse and intimate feel. Plage du Gros Pin is also considered more peaceful with a natural setting. For a truly wild and natural coastline, you can explore the coves towards l'Escalet in Ramatuelle, though this requires a short drive.

Can I bring my dog to the beaches in Grimaud?

Dog access on Grimaud's beaches is seasonal. Generally, from mid-September to the end of May, dogs are allowed on all beaches. During the peak summer season, from roughly June 1st to mid-September, dogs are typically not permitted during the main daytime hours (e.g., 9 am to 6 pm) but may be allowed in the early morning or evening. It's always best to check the latest local regulations.

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Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Grimaud: Weather Today

📅 Friday, July 25, 2025
It's a fairly nice day to be at the beach in Grimaud. The maximum air temperature will be 28.6 °C. Expect mostly cloudy skies. There's a low chance of rain, so it should remain dry for the most part. The sea temperature is 24.3 °C, ideal for a refreshing swim. The waves are moderate. The wind will be noticeable at times. With a UV index of 7.35, remember to apply sunscreen.
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Air

Low / High20.4°C/28.6°C
Feels Like (High)27.8°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature24.3 °C
Wave Height0.8 m
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Rain

Rain Chance18%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset06:17/21:03
Sunshine Hours13.1 hrs
UV Index7.35
Cloud Cover63%
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Wind

Speed22.1 km/h
Gusts44.6 km/h
DirectionNE

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