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

La Colle-sur-Loup Beaches

Overview

La Colle-sur-Loup offers a charming village escape with the famous beaches of the French Riviera just a short drive away. While the village itself is nestled inland, it serves as an ideal base for exploring a diverse coastline. Visitors will find that the nearest shores are mostly pebble beaches, perfect for a quick trip to the sea. However, the classic soft golden sands the Côte d'Azur is known for are also within easy reach.

Our editor's picks showcase this incredible variety. For a perfect family day on the sand, head to Beach de la Salis in Antibes. For a touch of glamour, the iconic Beach de la Garoupe offers stunning scenery on the Cap d'Antibes. Adventurous visitors will love the hike to the hidden cove of Beach des Milliardiers, while those seeking a truly dramatic backdrop will find it at the famous Beach Mala.

The closest beach to the village is the long pebble shore at Plage de Cagnes-sur-Mer, a convenient choice for an easy afternoon by the water. These highlights are just the beginning of what the coast has to offer. For more inspiration and to find the perfect spot for your holiday, be sure to explore our complete guide to the best beaches in the region.

FAQ

People Also Ask

What are the closest beaches to La Colle-sur-Loup and how do I get there?

The nearest stretch of coastline to La Colle-sur-Loup is in Cagnes-sur-Mer, located about 6-7 km away, which is a 10-15 minute drive. You can also take a public bus, like line 655, which connects the village to Cagnes-sur-Mer in about 15-20 minutes. Other nearby beaches include those at Villeneuve-Loubet, Saint-Laurent-du-Var, and a bit further, the sandy beaches of Antibes.

Are the beaches near La Colle-sur-Loup sandy or pebbly?

The closest beaches in Cagnes-sur-Mer and Villeneuve-Loubet are primarily pebble beaches, known locally as 'galets'. While beautiful, you may want to bring water shoes for comfort. For fine sandy beaches, you'll need to travel a bit further to places like Antibes (e.g., Plage de la Salis) or Cannes (e.g., Plage de la Croisette).
Beach de la Salis
Beach de la Salis
Beach Croisette
Beach Croisette

Do I need a car to visit the beaches from La Colle-sur-Loup?

While public buses can take you to the nearest beach in Cagnes-sur-Mer, a car offers much more flexibility. It allows you to easily explore different types of beaches, from the nearby pebble shores to the sandy beaches in Antibes or Cannes, and helps you manage beach gear. However, be aware that parking near popular beaches can be challenging and costly, especially in peak season.

Is La Colle-sur-Loup a good base for a family beach holiday?

La Colle-sur-Loup can be an excellent base for families who want a mix of experiences. It offers a quieter, more authentic village atmosphere away from the coastal crowds, often with more spacious accommodation options. While it requires a short drive or bus ride to the sea, it's also very close to the Rives du Loup park for river swimming and provides easy access to other inland villages like Saint-Paul de Vence.

Besides the sea, are there any river swimming spots in La Colle-sur-Loup?

Yes, a major local attraction is swimming in the Loup river. The Parc Départemental des Rives du Loup, located between La Colle-sur-Loup and Villeneuve-Loubet, is a fantastic spot for families with accessible river banks and picnic areas. Further upstream, the Gorges du Loup offers more adventurous swimming in natural rock pools and is popular for canyoning.

What's the best time of year for swimming at the beaches near La Colle-sur-Loup?

For comfortable sea swimming, the best time is from June to September. The Mediterranean water is warmest in July and August, often reaching around 24°C (75°F). May and October can also be pleasant for sunbathing, but the water will be cooler, around 18°C (64°F), which may be too chilly for some.

Are there free public beaches nearby, or are they all private beach clubs?

The coastline near La Colle-sur-Loup, particularly in Cagnes-sur-Mer, offers a mix of both. There are extensive stretches of free public beaches where you can lay your towel anywhere. Interspersed among these are private beach clubs ('plages privées') where you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas for a fee and enjoy amenities like restaurants and restrooms.

Which is better for a day trip from La Colle-sur-Loup: the beaches at Cagnes-sur-Mer or Antibes?

The choice depends on your preference. Cagnes-sur-Mer is closer (10-15 min drive) and offers a very long, wide pebble beach with a lovely promenade, making it a quick and easy option. Antibes is further (25-35 min drive) but is famous for its beautiful, sheltered sandy beaches like Plage de la Salis and its charming old town, making it a more classic 'sandy beach' destination.
Beach de la Salis
Beach de la Salis

How is the water quality and is it calm enough for children?

The water quality along the Côte d'Azur is generally excellent and regularly monitored. The beaches at Cagnes-sur-Mer are open to the sea and can have small waves. For consistently calm, shallow waters ideal for young children, the sheltered sandy coves in Antibes (like Plage de la Salis) or the bay at Villefranche-sur-Mer are often recommended.
Beach de la Salis
Beach de la Salis

What are the parking options like at the beaches near La Colle-sur-Loup?

Parking can be a challenge, especially in July and August. Most coastal towns like Cagnes-sur-Mer and Antibes have paid street parking and underground parking garages. Free parking is very rare to find close to the beaches. It's advisable to arrive early in the day to secure a spot or consider using public transport to avoid parking-related stress.

Beaches for Every Taste

Dog Friendly Beaches in La Colle-sur-Loup

Sand Beaches in La Colle-sur-Loup

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The fastest way to find the best La Colle-sur-Loup Beaches

La Colle-sur-Loup Beaches Map

Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

La Colle-sur-Loup: Weather Today

📅 Wednesday, September 10, 2025
Today offers an average beach day in La Colle-sur-Loup. The air temperature will reach a high of 26.6 °C, perfect for enjoying the beach without extreme heat. The sea is a pleasant 25.1 °C and the waves are moderate. Expect mostly cloudy skies throughout the day, so intense sunshine may be limited. The wind will be light, but occasional stronger gusts are possible. There's also a chance of rain, so keep an eye on the sky. The UV index will not be high.
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Air

Low / High19°C/26.6°C
Feels Like (High)27.7°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature25.1 °C
Wave Height0.9 m
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Rain

Rain Chance53%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset07:05/19:51
Sunshine Hours10.0 hrs
UV Index5.5
Cloud Cover69%
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Wind

Speed12.6 km/h
Gusts29.5 km/h
DirectionSW

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