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

Ollioules Beaches

Overview

Ollioules offers a unique take on a South of France beach holiday. This charming, historic village is not on the coast, but rather nestled in the hills just a short 10 to 15-minute drive from the Mediterranean Sea. This prime location allows you to enjoy an authentic Provençal atmosphere while having easy access to the vibrant coastal resorts of Sanary-sur-Mer, Six-Fours-les-Plages, and Bandol. The nearby coastline presents a delightful variety, from wide stretches of fine sand to intimate pebble coves, ensuring a perfect seaside experience for everyone.

Our editor's picks highlight the diverse character of the region's beaches. For a classic day on the sand with plenty of amenities, Beach Portissol in Sanary-sur-Mer is a beautiful and convenient choice. In the nearby town of Bandol, you will find the iconic Plage de Renécros, a perfectly sheltered cove of fine white sand that is among the most famous in the area. For those looking to escape the summer crowds, the series of natural coves at Beach de la Mitre offers a more peaceful and authentic swimming spot favored by locals. And for a truly memorable adventure, the stunning fjord-like gorge of Calanque d'En-vau is a regional icon worth the day trip.

The clear and calm Mediterranean waters along this stretch of coast are famously inviting for a swim. Beyond our curated selections, many more wonderful spots await, from lively, family-friendly shores to secluded, rocky inlets. To help you find the perfect beach for your trip, be sure to explore our more comprehensive list of the area's best beaches.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Ollioules a good base for a beach holiday?

Ollioules is a charming inland Provençal village that serves as an excellent base for a beach holiday. While it doesn't have its own beaches, it is just a short drive—typically 10 to 15 minutes—from the popular coastal resorts of Sanary-sur-Mer, Six-Fours-les-Plages, and Bandol. This location allows you to enjoy the authentic atmosphere of a historic French village while having easy access to a variety of beautiful Mediterranean beaches.

How do you get to the beaches from Ollioules?

The easiest way to get to the nearby beaches from Ollioules is by car, which typically takes 10-15 minutes. Public transport is also an option; local bus services, such as those on the Réseau Mistral network (like lines 120 and 72), connect Ollioules to coastal towns like Sanary-sur-Mer and Six-Fours-les-Plages. The Ollioules-Sanary-sur-Mer train station also provides access to the regional transport network.

What are the nearest beaches to Ollioules?

The closest beaches are located in the neighboring seaside towns. In Sanary-sur-Mer (about 5-6 km away), you'll find Plage de Portissol and Plage de Bonnegrâce. In Six-Fours-les-Plages (about 6-7 km away), popular choices include Plage de la Coudoulière and the long stretch of Plage de Bonnegrâce which extends between the two towns.

Beach Portissol

Beach de la Coudoulière

Are the beaches near Ollioules sandy or pebbly?

The beaches in the area offer a mix of surfaces. You can find fine sandy beaches, such as Plage de Portissol in Sanary and parts of the large Mourillon beaches in Toulon. Other beaches, like Plage de la Coudoulière in Six-Fours, are made of small pebbles or gravel ('gravier'). Some smaller, more secluded coves ('criques') can be rocky.

Beach Portissol

Beach du Mourillon

Beach de la Coudoulière

What is the best time of year for a beach trip to the Ollioules area?

The best time for a beach holiday is from June to September. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, and the Mediterranean sea temperature is ideal for swimming, typically ranging from 20°C to 26°C (68°F to 79°F). July and August are the busiest and hottest months. For pleasant weather with fewer crowds, consider visiting in June or September.

Are the beaches near Ollioules good for families with children?

Yes, many beaches in the area are very family-friendly. Plage de la Coudoulière in Six-Fours and the main beaches in Sanary-sur-Mer are suitable for children. The Plages du Mourillon in nearby Toulon are particularly well-suited for families, offering wide sandy shores, calm, shallow waters protected by breakwaters, playgrounds, and lifeguard supervision in the summer.

Beach de la Coudoulière

Beach du Mourillon

How crowded are the beaches and is parking a problem?

In the peak season of July and August, the most popular beaches can get very crowded. Parking can be challenging, especially at popular spots like Plage de Portissol. Locals and repeat visitors often advise arriving early in the morning to secure a parking spot or be prepared for a short walk from where you park.

Beach Portissol

Are there quieter, more secluded beaches to escape the crowds?

Yes, for a quieter experience, you can explore the smaller coves ('criques') along the coast. The area around Cap Nègre and Le Brusc in Six-Fours has some less crowded spots. Near Toulon, Anse de Méjean and Anse Magaud are considered local gems, offering a more rugged and natural setting away from the main tourist beaches. These often require a short walk along a coastal path to access.

People Also Ask

Can you swim comfortably and what is the water like?

Yes, the water is generally very pleasant for swimming from June to October. The Mediterranean waters here are known for being calm, clear, and clean, with many beaches awarded the Blue Flag for quality. The sea is typically sheltered, though the Mistral wind can occasionally create choppier conditions.

Which is better for beaches: Sanary-sur-Mer or Bandol?

Both towns offer beautiful but different beach experiences. Sanary-sur-Mer is known for its charming harbour and accessible, family-friendly beaches like Plage de Portissol. Bandol is famous for Plage de Renécros, a beautiful, sheltered sandy cove right in the town, and is also a hub for water sports. Your choice may depend on whether you prefer the bustling, picturesque setting of Sanary or the slightly more resort-like feel of Bandol's main beach.

Beach Portissol

Plage de Renécros

Are there any dog-friendly beaches near Ollioules?

Yes, there are options for bringing your dog to the beach, though restrictions apply, especially in summer. Bandol has a designated dog beach (Bandol Dog Beach). In La Seyne-sur-Mer, there is also a beach area specifically for dogs. It is always best to check local signage for the most current rules, as they can change seasonally.

Can you rent sunbeds and umbrellas on the beaches?

Most of the beaches near Ollioules are public ('plages publiques'), where you bring your own equipment. However, some of the larger beaches, particularly in Bandol and Sanary-sur-Mer, have private sections or beach clubs ('plages privées') where you can rent sun loungers and umbrellas for the day. These often have an associated restaurant or bar.