The Most Secluded French Riviera Beaches
Beyond the familiar glamour of Cannes and the chic bustle of St Tropez, the coastline offers plenty of beaches only accessible by yacht and offers the perfect respite from a busy French Riviera atmosphere. These secluded beaches provide a sense of privacy and natural beauty far from the crowds that head to the famous beach club spots.
Whether situated beneath limestone cliffs or embraced by wild, fragrant herbs, here are our favorite beach spots and best-kept secrets on the French Riviera to access when on a luxury yacht charter:
Plage de la Mala, Cap d’Ail
Located beneath dramatic limestone cliffs between Monaco and Nice, Plage de la Mala is an idyllic spot loved by those seeking both beauty and discretion.
Sparkling, clear waters border its pebbled shore, while elegant beachfront restaurants tucked beneath pine canopies offer the perfect setting for a leisurely, sun-soaked lunch.
Access is by yacht tender or a winding path, and once here, you’ll find an atmosphere that balances nature with relaxation perfectly.
Île Sainte-Marguerite, Cannes
Just a short cruise from Cannes, Île Sainte-Marguerite offers a wild, serene sanctuary framed by eucalyptus groves and secluded bays.
As the largest of the Lérins Islands, it invites exploration beneath its aquamarine surface, where ancient shipwrecks are found beneath the waves. With few visitors and hidden beaches, it’s an ideal place to savor tranquil moments far from the spotlight.
Plage de Fazzio, Cap d’Antibes
Plage de Fazzio remains one of the Riviera’s most discreet retreats. This narrow pebble beach, surrounded by rocky promontories and fragrant pines, offers calm waters perfect for swimming or simply drifting in the sun. It’s a great spot to unwind, removed from the usual Riviera buzz.
Plage des Sablettes, Menton
Where the French Riviera gently meets Italian charm, Menton’s Plage des Sablettes provides a serene refuge framed by pastel-hued buildings and rolling hills.
Approached best from the sea, this expansive bay is a haven for those who cherish the quiet. The shallow waters invite easy dips, and a glass of chilled Provençal rosé at sunset completes the picture-perfect day.
Plage du Jai, Île du Levant
For those seeking something wonderfully unconventional, Île du Levant’s Plage du Jai offers an unspoiled slice of Riviera wildness. Known for its naturist heritage and untouched beauty, this secluded beach is accessible only by boat, where wind-shaped pines and pristine turquoise coves create a natural sanctuary.
Whether you embrace the island’s free-spirited traditions or simply crave solitude, the raw luxury of this landscape speaks for itself.
Contact our expert consultants today to discuss your itinerary when cruising the French Riviera and how best to include some of these hidden beach spots.
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Plage du Jai photo by Julien Heraud