Maybe you’ve never heard of St. Tropez, or maybe it’s been a bucket list destination for you for a long while.
St. Tropez is a small commune in the Cote d’Azur region of Southern France and gets its name from the martyr Saint Torpes, who was supposedly decapitated in Pisa, Italy, in 54 A.D. His body was placed into a boat with a rooster and a dog, ending up in the town now known as Saint Tropez. Despite this gruesome legend, St. Tropez is now one of the trendiest seaside resorts in the world, complete with pretty streets, twinkling harbors, and home to some of the most extravagant yachts.
Ever since Brigitte Bardot, named one of “the most beautiful French actresses of all time” by Vogue, strolled through the streets of St. Tropez in the film And God Created Woman, it has become a place for superstars, celebrities, and the wealthy. This once sleepy fishing village was catapulted into a haven for the rich and famous. Thankfully, these beaches aren’t just for the rich and famous. Locals and holidaymakers also lap up the chilled beach vibes and beautiful blue bays.
The beaches of St. Tropez are generally divided into three parts. The first group is called the “little beaches.” These beaches are located near the heart of the town and can get very crowded with locals quickly. The other beaches are divided by locality, west and east of the town. We have also included two beaches just south of St. Tropez, commonly associated with the area but not technically in St. Tropez.
The “Little Beaches”
This is the small section of coastline just in front of the charming old town, nestled between two old fortresses. They are all easily accessible from the town and make a great stop-off point after a long day of shopping or sightseeing.
The beaches near the port have lots of traffic, so don’t swim past the buoys and ropes for your safety. Let’s explore the “little beaches” first.
Plage de la Glaye
Plage de la Glaye is a tiny beach and the first little beach east of the port. Despite its location in the heart of St. Tropez, it’s still a hidden gem for the area. Its small size lends it to its tranquil and intimate atmosphere.
Being in the center of town means it is mainly used by locals or travelers who want to cool their feet in the sea after a day of sightseeing and being on their feet. And although it doesn’t draw in huge crowds, if you want to secure a prime spot on this pint-size beach, you must get there reasonably early.
This serene spot offers a mixture of tiny shale and stones. You won’t find any amenities or beach bars here. Instead, it is surrounded by old, pastel-colored homes with traditional shutters, with the 15th-century Tour du Portalet defense tower and city walls close by. If you need amenities, follow the paved walkway along the waterfront west towards the port.
Plage de la Ponche
Next to Plage de Glaye is Plage de la Ponche, which is located in the middle between Plage de la Glaye and Plage de la Fontanette. It’s a horseshoe-shaped beach that sits next to the walls of the old defensive tower. It is also at the end of the “Sentier Littoral” coastal path, making it a great spot to cool down after a long waterfront hike. There aren’t any facilities directly on the beach, but meander into the town, and you’ll find everything you need.
This pebble and sand mixed beach is surrounded by pastel and terracotta-colored houses, all complete with traditional French shutters. Although hidden behind the winding streets, it is easily accessible from the old town thanks to the steps at the bottom of Place Cavaillon.
Plage de la Fontanette
Plage de la Fontanette is east of Plage de la Ponche and the last of the three “little beaches.” This is another favorite spot among locals due to its proximity to the town center. Some travelers say this beach isn’t as pretty as the other little beaches. However, you get a fabulous view of St. Tropez Bay and the 17th-century Citadel above. However, because of this, it also becomes less crowded. So, if you’re seeking a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the town, this is a great beach to consider.
Plage de la Fontanette is a mix of sand and pebbles. It is located next to the old fishermen’s houses, and you’re still likely to see fishermen trying to catch some fish for their dinner. Like Plage de la Ponche, you can reach this beach by the steps at the bottom of Place Cavailon, and car spaces are available for a small fee. Take a book to read and enjoy a rare moment of peace and tranquility in the heart of St. Tropez.
West of St. Tropez
To the west of the town of St. Tropez, you’ll find two beautiful beaches that should be on your list of places to visit.
Plage du Pilon
This is the closest beach to the port, so it’s a great place to sit back, relax, and yacht watch. And if you have good eyesight or binoculars, you might spot a celebrity or two! It is a tiny area offering a small stretch of sand and pebble beach, providing a quiet rest bite away from the buzzing port.
I passed this beach on the way to Plage de la Bouillabaisse, and it was mainly used as a quick spot for a bite to eat or to read a book. However, a handful of families enjoyed the water’s edge and building sandcastles with their children. It’s also handy for those who don’t want to or cannot travel far out of town.
Plage de la Bouillabaisse
Plage de la Bouillabaisse is within walking distance of the town center. It is a beautiful sandy beach that stretches 500 meters. The eastern side of the beach has the best views of the bay and the port, as well as Sainte-Maxime, a city that sits across the bay. The western side is more secluded, with a natural feel and some shade. There are lots of beachside cafes and restaurants to choose from.
For an upscale roof terrace experience, head to Pearl Beach. This was a special treat and one of my favorite places to eat. The Mediterranean and Peruvian cuisine is delicious, which is complemented by the fantastic view of the bay. Head here during the evening, where you can watch the twinkling yachts coming in and out of the port.
There is also a free car park if you’re traveling by car. This beach has toilets, showers, and a first aid station, with lifeguards during the summer. This is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, featuring a water ski center and numerous opportunities for parasailing and paddleboarding.
Being west of the port’s entrance and full of water sports activities, it’s essential to be mindful of the water traffic. The amenities, activities, and out-of-town peace make this a popular spot with families.
East of St. Tropez
East of St. Tropez and past the Citadelle, there are plenty of trendy spots to choose from, as well as secluded coves full of wildlife. Let’s explore them.
Plages de Saint-Tropez
Plages de Saint-Tropez is sometimes known as Plage de la Granier. It is just a ten-minute walk from the town center and the first beach from the town walking east. It is a small sandy cove surrounded by lush greenery and clear water. With endless loungers and tropical umbrellas swaying in the wind against the white sand, this beach will make you feel like you’ve stepped into the Caribbean.
If you’re planting yourself here for the day and need to stimulate your brain a little, why not pop into the St. Tropez Maritime History Museum, not far from the beach? Or stroll through the beautiful St. Tropez cemetery that looks over the Mediterranean Sea and is home to many famous names such as Roger Vadim and Pierre Bachelet. The quiet cemetery also offers a fantastic view of the surrounding beaches and bays.
The best part of this small and peaceful beach is the Graniers Beach restaurant, a trendy 1950s fisherman’s cabin turned delicious restaurant. It is complete with romantic lights and an endless sound of tender music. This place has an authentic and down-to-earth feel compared to the razzle-dazzle of the main town. They offer it all, whether you’re stopping off for a toe dip and a quick drink or a full-on meal. Serving some of the freshest fish on the French Riviera and the best barbecues, this beach hut restaurant is a must for all foodies who like their toes in the sand as they eat. Spending the afternoon and evening here was the highlight of my trip to St. Tropez.
Plage Criques des Graniers
If you’re after a more naturalistic beach, walk further along the coast to Plage Criques des Graniers, which translates to the Creek of Graniers. This rugged section of the coastline features a collection of small sand and pebble mixed bays. If you like to snorkel, this place offers the chance to see plenty of sea creatures that hide away from the busier beaches.
Plage Criques des Graniers is best visited on foot as it is difficult to access any other way. Here, you’ll find a small pier that offers a fantastic and quiet spot to appreciate the sunrise. There is also a coastal path for travelers who enjoy a wild walk, but beware, there are difficult passages to cross, making it inaccessible for some. This is a popular spot for locals walking their dogs.
Plage des Canoubiers
Plage des Canoubiers is the local’s favorite beach destination and was featured on the national television series “Sous le Soleil.” This white, sandy beach is 200 meters long and lined with pine trees, offering much welcome shade from the midday sun. A charming restaurant is next to the yacht club that serves light lunches for active beachgoers. Nestled in the hills surrounding the bay are beautiful residences belonging to the likes of Brigitte Bardot and others.
With easy access from the main road of Route des Salins, it’s simple to get to via public transport, or there are plenty of free parking spots too. Here, you’ll find the local sailing school and other watersport services.
This is an energetic spot, which means the amenities are clean and accessible, with toilets, showers, and a lifeguard during the summer. This is an excellent place for families with children, as it is soft and sandy, clean, fun, and sporty, and has access to facilities and shade. What more could you want?
Plage de la Chemin
This is another small paradise close to Plage des Canoubiers. Some travelers find this beach tricky to reach through the coastal vegetation on foot. It can be reached by car along the Chemin de Sainte-Anner road, where you can also spot some beautiful private residences through the hedge screens.
Like many of the lesser-known beaches here, this is a top spot for locals who want to avoid tourists. You might not spot a celebrity, but you will discover some secrets from the locals if you chat with them. This is where I learned about Plage de la Garrigue. If you seek peace and tranquility within a reasonable distance from the town, this could be an excellent choice for you.
Plage de la Rabiou
This is one of the most highly rated beaches in the St. Tropez area, as well as a lesser-known beach. Located at the northeastern point of the peninsula lies Plage de la Rabiou. It is part of the beautiful coastal path, which lacks amenities and restaurants, offering a natural and isolated feel. To and from the beach, you’ll find a wide array of scented wildflowers, making it a great visit for flower lovers. It is also surrounded by fauna, offering shade on a warm day.
Plage de la Rabious offers a small sandy area, along with plenty of rocky areas to choose from as well. This is another excellent beach for spotting wildlife, including octopuses and ocean sunfish. Just be careful of the sea urchins that have caused many tourists to require emergency medical treatment.
There is a small wooden pier extending out towards the sea, allowing those who prefer not to enter the water a chance to see further out. The waters are very blue here, and on a clear day, you can also see the Alps across the bay.
Plage de la Moutte
This beach is one of the most secluded and lesser-known beaches on this list. But with 300 meters of soft white sand and crystal clear blue water, it’s a must-see beach in St. Tropez. It can be challenging to reach, and there are no amenities, so come prepared with everything you need for your stay. You can find a car park on Parc de la Moutte just a few minutes walk from the beach.
It also offers a great view of the tiny, rocky island of La Croisette, which birds visit if you’re into bird spotting. And it also makes a top snorkeling spot, and I saw many fish species here.
The water can become very deep thanks to a steep and sudden drop, so swimming at this spot is best for experienced swimmers. This beach is on the coastal route, so it is a popular stop for hikers seeking a rest. It is also a clothes-optional beach.
Plage des Salins
This is one of the most famous nudist beaches in the area, but there’s more to this beach than the nudists. You’ll find plenty of locals and tourists happily mixing, enjoying the beautiful white sandy beach and turquoise water.
Along the beachfront, you’ll find a wide array of restaurants and cafes and plenty of kiosks offering equipment hire. You can also find amenities and seasonal lifeguards. This is also a top spot for scuba diving, and a bronze statue of Brigitte Bardot is placed on a group of rocks further out to sea, which you can see from the beach on a clear day.
Plage des Salins is a beautiful spot that combines natural beauty with tourist needs. This beach is famous for its royal blue umbrellas that sit right up to the water’s edge, which you can hire for a small fee.
There are many ways to get to this beach, with a handful of free car parks that are only a short walk from the beach. There is also access for those with reduced mobility, which many of the beaches in this area lack, making it a top spot for families.
Plage de la Garrigue
This is probably the least known beach on this list and is hardly found on St. Tropez beach lists. But trust me when I say this is worthy of a stop, even for a few hours. Garrigue translates to scrubland, which doesn’t make it sound particularly enticing.
However, it is a secluded, beautiful sandy beach stretching around 200 meters long. The water is crystal clear, and the area is virtually untouched. Locals like to keep this little beach a secret, so you won’t find many speaking about it online.
My favorite part of my visit here was the on-land wildlife visitors, the wild boars. From time to time, they rush out from the woodland. Sure, you need to keep your distance, but watch them play around in the sand and dip their toes from afar, and it’s an experience to remember.
Plage de la Garrigue also offers a great spot to watch the sunrise. Follow the coastal path from Plage de la Salins to Ramatuelle, and you’ll find it approximately halfway.
South of St. Tropez
South of St. Tropez are a few famous beaches that always hit the best beaches in St. Tropez lists. We have included them because they are brilliant beaches with plenty of things to do, and they are pretty close to St. Tropez.
However, please note that they are not technically in St. Tropez. Instead, they are found in the neighboring region of Ramatuelle.
Plage de Tahiti
This is an iconic beach for many reasons. Not only are you likely to spot a celebrity, but you are also likely to bump into a few nudists. Clothing is optional at Tahiti Beach, although nowadays, nudists head for the official nudist spots further along the coast.
But it’s good to know before you go because, like it was for me, it can be quite a shock if you aren’t aware beforehand. Tahiti Beach is also where And God Created Woman was filmed and the place where Allied forces landed in 1944. The bright white sand and clear waters, with wooden pontoons for toe-dipping and selfies, make it a popular spot for tourists and locals
There are plenty of hotels and restaurants to choose from, providing clean amenities. The Tahiti Beach Hotel is the oldest beach club in St. Tropez, offering old-school Riviera glamor. If you fancy spoiling yourself with a butler for the day, head to the Tabou Beach Club.
There, you can hire sun loungers on the water’s edge and be waited on by staff who serve you crisp cold drinks and delicious food to your table. This comes with a significant price tag, but it’s a French treat you’ll never forget.
Plage de Pampelonne
Known as St. Tropez’s most famous stretch of sand, this is a must-see beach for those in the area. It stretches over 5 kilometers in length, is lined with palm trees, and boasts soft, white sand and crystal-clear water. It sits in front of a vast area of coastal dune areas, which makes it a popular spot for hikers enjoying the area’s natural beauty. And there are plenty of beach clubs, cafes, restaurants, and kiosks to choose from, too, meaning tasty food is never too far. There are different methods of public transport to get you here, as well as ample parking places
This famous beach is also a playground for the rich and famous partygoers, who can be found in one of the many beach clubs dotted along the coast. Many travel here for the party scene, and you’ll see many large yachts anchored offshore, waiting for the nighttime to arrive. Its popularity means you must plan your visit and pre-book restaurant tables and sun loungers for the most prestigious areas. It can be a little pricey too.
At the southern end of Pampelonne Beach, you’ll find a small sheltered bay called Bonne Terrasse, and this was one of the prettiest parts I visited. It once provided a safe harbor for the local fishermen’s boats.
Now, it is surrounded by trendy restaurants and residential properties but offers a secluded feel compared to the rest of Plage de Pampelonne. The facilities are plentiful here, with public toilets and showers, a first aid station, and lifeguards on duty. You can also hire sunbeds, umbrellas, and other equipment to make your visit easier.