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

Sainte-Maxime Beaches

Overview

Nestled on the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, Sainte-Maxime offers a classic French Riviera beach experience with a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere. The town is celebrated for its beautiful, wide sandy beaches, providing a more laid-back alternative to its glamorous neighbor, Saint-Tropez. This welcoming vibe makes it a perfect choice for visitors seeking sun, sand, and the charm of a lively Provençal town without the intense crowds, offering a delightful mix of public and private beach experiences.

The coastline features a variety of beaches to suit every taste. For ultimate convenience, the Beach du centre ville sits right in the heart of town, offering stunning views across the bay. Just next to it, Plage de la Croisette is another popular and easily accessible stretch of sand. A short distance away, Beach de la Nartelle stands out as the largest and most popular choice, serving as the main hub for water sports and chic beach clubs. For a quieter day, Plage de la Garonnette is a favorite among locals seeking a more tranquil setting. And for those wanting a taste of iconic Riviera glamour, the legendary Pampelonne Beach is just a short day trip away.

Whether you prefer a simple day on a public beach or the serviced luxury of a private club, Sainte-Maxime delivers. The town's commitment to a family-oriented environment is clear, yet it also provides sophisticated options for adults. Beyond these highlights, numerous other coves and sandy stretches await discovery. For more inspiration, explore our complete guide to the best beaches in the area.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Sainte-Maxime a good choice for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Sainte-Maxime is widely considered an excellent destination for a family beach holiday. The town has earned the national 'Famille Plus' label, which recognizes its commitment to providing a welcoming environment for families. Many of its beaches, such as La Nartelle and the central town beach, have gentle slopes and shallow waters, making them safe for children. Additionally, there are numerous family-friendly activities available, including kids' clubs on the beaches, playgrounds, and the Aqualand waterpark nearby.

Beach de la Nartelle

Beach du centre ville

What's the difference between Sainte-Maxime and Saint-Tropez?

Sainte-Maxime and Saint-Tropez are neighbors on the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, but they offer different atmospheres. Sainte-Maxime is known for being more relaxed, family-oriented, and generally more affordable. It has a lively town with a mix of public and private beaches. Saint-Tropez, on the other hand, is famous for its glamorous, high-end reputation, attracting a celebrity crowd to its world-renowned beach clubs like those on Pampelonne Beach, and has a more vibrant nightlife. While you can enjoy the glitz of Saint-Tropez on a day trip, Sainte-Maxime provides a more laid-back base.

Pampelonne Beach

Are the beaches in Sainte-Maxime sandy?

Yes, Sainte-Maxime is known for its beautiful, wide sandy beaches. Popular spots like Plage de la Nartelle, Plage de la Croisette, and the main town beach (Plage du Centre Ville) all feature fine, golden sand. While some smaller coves or sections might have pebbles, the main beaches that attract most visitors are predominantly sandy.

Beach de la Nartelle

Beach du centre ville

Beach Croisette

Can you swim in Sainte-Maxime in June or September?

Yes, the swimming season in Sainte-Maxime generally runs from June to October. In June, the average sea temperature is around 21.6°C (70.9°F), which is comfortable for most people. By September, the water has had all summer to warm up, and it remains pleasant for swimming. The warmest water temperatures are typically in August, averaging around 23.3°C (73.9°F).

What is the best area to stay in Sainte-Maxime for beach access?

If you want to be within walking distance of a beach and town amenities, staying in the Sainte-Maxime City Centre is ideal. This area gives you direct access to the Plage du Centre Ville and Plage de la Croisette, as well as restaurants and shops. For those who prefer a dedicated beach resort feel with larger beaches, the La Nartelle neighborhood is a great choice, though it is a short drive from the main town center.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Beach du centre ville

Beach Croisette

Beach de la Nartelle

Are there public and private beaches in Sainte-Maxime?

Yes, Sainte-Maxime offers a mix of both public (plages publiques) and private (plages privées) beaches. The public beaches are free to access, while the private beach clubs charge a fee for entry, which typically includes the rental of a sun lounger and parasol. These clubs also have restaurants and other amenities. This mix allows visitors to choose between a simple, free day on the sand or a more serviced experience.

Which beach is best for families with small children?

Plage de la Nartelle is often recommended as one of the best beaches for families with small children. It's a large, sandy beach with shallow water and a gentle slope, making it safer for kids. It is supervised during the summer season and offers many activities. The main town beach (Plage du Centre Ville) is also a great option due to its convenience, calm waters, and proximity to shops and ice cream parlors.

Beach de la Nartelle

Beach du centre ville

How do you get from Sainte-Maxime to the famous Pampelonne beach?

To get to Pampelonne Beach, which is in Ramatuelle near Saint-Tropez, you have a few options. The most scenic way is to take the Bateaux Verts ferry from Sainte-Maxime to Saint-Tropez (a 20-minute ride), and from there, you can take a taxi or a local bus to Pampelonne. Driving is also an option, taking around 20-30 minutes without traffic, but be aware that summer traffic can be very heavy and parking can be challenging. There is also a direct bus service (Line 8753) that runs from Sainte-Maxime to Pampelonne, taking about an hour.

Pampelonne Beach

People Also Ask

Are there quiet, less crowded beaches near Sainte-Maxime?

Yes, for a quieter experience, you can explore the beaches east of the town center towards Les Issambres. Plage de la Madrague is a narrower, wilder beach with a mix of sand and pebbles, known for being less crowded and good for snorkeling. Another option is Pointe des Sardinaux, a small, protected nature area with little creeks and pine trees, offering a more secluded and natural setting away from the main tourist crowds.

Beach de la Madrague

Is it easy to find parking near the beaches in Sainte-Maxime?

Parking can be challenging, especially during the peak summer months of July and August. While there are several paid parking lots near the town center and main beaches, they fill up quickly. For example, Plage de la Nartelle has a large free car park, which is a significant advantage. It is generally recommended to arrive early in the day to secure a parking spot or consider using public transport or walking if you are staying nearby.

Beach de la Nartelle

Are dogs allowed on the beaches in Sainte-Maxime?

There are restrictions for dogs on the beaches, especially during the high season. From June 1st to September 30th, dogs are generally forbidden on all beaches. However, outside of this period, they are tolerated on certain beaches like La Croisette, Les Éléphants, and La Madrague. Always look for local signage to confirm the current rules.

Beach de la Madrague

Beach Croisette

What is the vibe of the beach clubs in Sainte-Maxime compared to Saint-Tropez?

The beach clubs in Sainte-Maxime, particularly along La Nartelle beach, are often described as chic and high-quality but with a more relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere than those in Saint-Tropez. While they offer excellent food and services, they tend to be less about the intense party scene and more about a leisurely day at the beach. Saint-Tropez's clubs on Pampelonne are world-famous for their vibrant party atmosphere and celebrity clientele.

Beach de la Nartelle

Pampelonne Beach