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

Le Beausset Beaches

Overview

Le Beausset is a charming inland Provençal village that serves as a perfect base for a coastal holiday. While not directly on the sea, it offers a peaceful retreat just a short drive from the bustling seaside towns of Bandol, Sanary-sur-Mer, and Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer. This location allows you to enjoy authentic village life while having easy access to a variety of Mediterranean beaches, though a car is essential for exploring the coastline.

The nearby coast presents a wonderful mix of beach styles to suit any preference. You can find everything from wide, sandy shores perfect for lounging to intimate pebble coves with clear water. For the ultimate family-friendly day, the vast, sandy Plage des Lecques is a top choice with its shallow waters. In Bandol, the beautiful and sheltered cove of Plage de Renécros provides a classic town beach experience. For a truly spectacular adventure, the iconic Calanque d'En-vau is a breathtaking natural wonder that is well worth the trip.

Beyond the most famous spots, the region is full of charming alternatives. Beach Portissol is a favorite among locals in Sanary-sur-Mer for a quality day by the sea. If you're seeking a more tranquil setting, the pebbly shores of Beach de la Madrague offer a quieter escape. These highlights are just a starting point, as our complete guide details many other coves and beaches waiting to be discovered along this stunning stretch of the French Riviera.

FAQ

How far are the beaches from Le Beausset and how do you get there?

The nearest beaches are in the coastal towns of Bandol, Sanary-sur-Mer, and Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer, all of which are approximately a 15 to 25-minute drive away (about 8-12 km). The most convenient and almost essential way to travel between Le Beausset and the beaches is by car. While some local bus services may exist, they are far less frequent and flexible for beach-hopping.

What are the beaches like near Le Beausset? Are they sandy or pebbly?

The coastline offers a variety of beaches. You will find beautiful, sheltered sandy beaches perfect for lounging, such as Plage de Renécros in Bandol and the large Plage des Lecques in Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer. There are also many smaller coves (calanques) and beaches like Plage du Capelan in Bandol, which are made of pebbles (galets) and offer excellent spots for snorkeling in clear water.

Which town has the best beaches for families: Bandol, Sanary-sur-Mer, or Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer?

Each town has great options for families. Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer is famous for Plage des Lecques, a very long sandy beach with shallow water that is ideal for small children. Bandol's Plage de Renécros is a well-sheltered sandy cove, making it very safe from waves. Sanary-sur-Mer offers several family-friendly beaches like Plage du Lido and Plage de Portissol, often with restaurants and amenities nearby.

Is it easy to park near the beaches in summer?

No, parking near the main beaches in July and August is extremely difficult and often expensive. Free spots are rare, and paid parking lots fill up very quickly. It is highly recommended to arrive early in the morning (before 10 AM) to find a space or be prepared to walk a considerable distance from where you park.

Is Le Beausset a good place to stay for a beach holiday?

Le Beausset is a charming, authentic Provençal village located inland, not directly on the coast. It's an excellent base for a beach holiday if you prefer staying in a quieter, more traditional setting away from the crowded seaside resorts. You get to enjoy the peaceful village life and local markets while being just a short drive from the Mediterranean beaches. However, a car is essential for this type of holiday.

What is the best time of year to visit the beaches for swimming?

For the warmest water, July and August are peak months, with sea temperatures averaging around 22-23°C (72-73°F). However, this is also the most crowded period. For a great balance of warm water and fewer crowds, June and September are ideal. Be aware of the Mistral wind, which can occasionally blow and make the air and sea feel cooler.

Can you recommend a quieter, more hidden beach near Le Beausset?

For a quieter experience, consider exploring the Calanque de Port d'Alon. It's a beautiful pebble beach nestled in a protected cove between Saint-Cyr and Bandol, accessible via a short walk through a pine forest. Another option is to explore the small coves along the coastal path (Sentier Littoral), such as Plage d'Eden Roc in Bandol, which are often less crowded than the main sandy beaches.

Is it worth visiting the Calanques de Cassis from Le Beausset?

Absolutely. The Calanques National Park is a major highlight of the region and is only about a 25-30 minute drive from Le Beausset to the town of Cassis. The best way to see the famous Calanques like Port-Miou, Port-Pin, and En-Vau is by taking a boat tour from the port of Cassis. Hiking is also an option, but be aware that trails can be challenging and are often closed in summer due to fire risk.

People Also Ask

Are there any beaches with restaurants and private sunbed rentals?

Yes, many of the larger and more popular beaches feature private beach clubs. On beaches like Plage de Renécros in Bandol and Plage des Lecques in Saint-Cyr, you can rent sunbeds (matelas) and umbrellas for the day and dine at their beachfront restaurants. These beaches also have public sections where you can lay your own towel, with public facilities and cafes nearby.

What is the vibe like in the coastal towns in the evening?

The evening atmospheres vary. Sanary-sur-Mer is famous for its beautiful, illuminated port and lively night market, creating a charming and bustling ambiance. Bandol has a classic seaside resort feel with a long promenade of restaurants and bars facing the marina. Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer is generally the quietest of the three, more focused on family-friendly restaurants.

Are dogs allowed on the beaches near Le Beausset?

Generally, dogs are not permitted on the main swimming beaches during the high season (roughly May to September). However, there are a few designated dog-friendly beaches, such as a specific 'Dog Beach' in Bandol and the Calanque de Port d'Alon in Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer. Rules can change, so it's always best to check the signs at the beach entrance.

What's a common mistake to avoid when visiting the beaches here?

The most common mistake is underestimating the summer crowds and the associated parking challenges. Trying to find a spot at a popular beach late in the morning in August will lead to frustration. Another tip is to bring water shoes (chaussures aquatiques), as many of the most beautiful and less crowded coves are pebbly, not sandy.

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Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Le Beausset: Weather Today

📅 Friday, July 25, 2025
It's shaping up to be a decent beach day in Le Beausset. The air temperature will reach a high of 29.9 °C. Expect some clouds in the sky. The sea temperature is a comfortable 22.8 °C and the waves are moderate. The wind might pick up at times. The UV index will reach 7.45, so make sure to apply sunscreen.
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Air

Low / High17.4°C/29.9°C
Feels Like (High)26.6°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature22.8 °C
Wave Height1.5 m
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Rain

Rain Chance0%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset06:20/21:06
Sunshine Hours13.2 hrs
UV Index7.45
Cloud Cover51%
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Wind

Speed22.7 km/h
Gusts43.6 km/h
DirectionNW

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