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

Vence Beaches

Overview

Vence offers a unique South of France experience, combining the charm of a historic hilltop town with easy access to the Mediterranean. While not a traditional seaside resort, it serves as an ideal base for exploring the diverse coastline of the French Riviera. The nearest beaches are just a short drive away, where you will often find the clear, blue waters and smooth pebble shores typical of the area around Cagnes-sur-Mer.

For those seeking classic golden sand, the beautiful beaches of Antibes are well worth the trip. You can discover the stunning Beach de la Gravette, tucked beside the ancient city walls, or relax on the popular public sands of Beach de la Salis. For a touch of classic Riviera glamour, the iconic Beach de la Garoupe offers scenic beauty and a quintessential Côte d'Azur atmosphere.

The coastline accessible from Vence presents a rich variety of choices, from vibrant public spaces to exclusive private clubs. Many consider Beach Marinieres in Villefranche-sur-Mer to be one of the region's most beautiful bays. Nearby in Antibes, Plage de Ponteil is another fantastic sandy option often favored by families. For a complete look at all the top spots, from hidden coves to lively shores, see our full list of the best beaches in the region.

Plage de Cagnes-sur-Mer

The most convenient and closest beach for a quick and easy trip to the coast from the inland town of Vence. This extensive pebble coastline stretches for over three kilometers, defined by a wide and lively promenade perfect for a classic seaside stroll. The atmosphere is relaxed and authentic, offering a more down-to-earth experience than other nearby destinations. At the eastern end, the charming fishing village of Cros-de-Cagnes adds to the character with its small port and colorful boats. With its sweeping views and straightforward charm, it represents an accessible and traditional Riviera day out.

FAQ

People Also Ask

How far is Vence from the beach?

Vence is a historic hilltop town located inland from the Mediterranean coast. The nearest beaches are about 7 to 9 kilometers (around 4 to 5.5 miles) away in seaside towns like Cagnes-sur-Mer and Villeneuve-Loubet, which typically takes about a 15-25 minute drive.

Is Vence a good base for a beach holiday?

Vence is an excellent base if you want to combine a cultural, authentic Provençal experience in a charming hilltop town with day trips to the sea. It is not a traditional beach resort where you can walk from your hotel to the sand. It's ideal for travelers who appreciate art and history but also want the flexibility to drive to various beaches along the French Riviera.

Are the beaches near Vence sandy or pebbly?

The closest beaches to Vence, primarily in Cagnes-sur-Mer, are almost entirely pebble beaches, known as 'galets'. For wide, sandy beaches, you will need to travel further to towns like Antibes or Cannes. Many visitors find the pebble beaches beautiful due to the clear, deep blue water, but water shoes are recommended for comfort.

How do you get to the beach from Vence without a car?

You can take a local bus from Vence to the coast. The most direct route is often taking a bus, like Lignes d'Azur line 9, to the Cagnes-sur-Mer train station or its seaside area, Cros-de-Cagnes. The journey can take around 30-45 minutes. From there, you can easily walk to the public beaches.

What are the best beaches for families near Vence?

For families staying in Vence, the beaches at Villeneuve-Loubet can be a good option as some stretches have fine sand. The beaches in Cagnes-sur-Mer are also family-friendly, with calm waters and lifeguards in summer, though they are pebbly. For a classic sandy beach day, many families make the slightly longer trip to Plage de la Salis or Plage de Ponteil in Antibes.

Beach de la Salis

Plage de Ponteil

What's the difference between public and private beaches on the French Riviera?

Public beaches ('plages publiques') are free to access, but can be crowded, especially in summer. Private beaches ('plages privées') are operated by restaurants or clubs and charge a fee for a sun lounger and umbrella for the day. They offer more space, security, waiter service, and amenities like restrooms, but bringing your own food is usually not allowed.

Which is better: the beach at Cagnes-sur-Mer or Villeneuve-Loubet?

Cagnes-sur-Mer features a long 3.5km pebble beach with a wide promenade, many restaurants, and sections divided by rock jetties ('épis') that create calmer swimming areas. Villeneuve-Loubet, located just next to it, offers a mix of pebble and some sandy beaches, like Plage des Bouches du Loup, which can be preferable for families. The choice depends on whether you prefer a lively promenade atmosphere (Cagnes) or are seeking out a sandier spot (Villeneuve-Loubet).

Is it easy to park near the beaches?

Parking can be challenging, especially during the peak summer months of July and August. While there are paid parking lots and some street parking available along the coast in towns like Cagnes-sur-Mer, they fill up quickly. Arriving early in the morning or using public transport is often recommended to avoid frustration.

When is the best time to visit Vence for a beach holiday?

For swimming and beach days, the best time is from June to September when the weather is hot and the sea is warm. However, July and August are very crowded. For a balance of good weather and fewer crowds, June and September are ideal. The water is still pleasant for swimming, and the coastal towns are less packed.

Are there any sandy beaches near Vence?

Yes, but you have to drive a bit further. While the immediate coastline at Cagnes-sur-Mer is pebbly, you can find beautiful sandy beaches in Antibes (like Plage de la Salis and Plage de Ponteil) and Juan-les-Pins. These are typically a 30-40 minute drive from Vence, depending on traffic.

Beach de la Salis

Plage de Ponteil