8 of the best beaches in Côte d’Azur for families

In search of some classic French Riviera sun, sea and sand? With so many beautiful beaches lining the Côte d'Azur, it can be hard to choose – particularly when you’ve got your whole family to take into consideration.

Below, we’ve put together some of the best beaches in Côte d’Azur for families. From peaceful atmospheres to shallow waters surrounded by pine forests, pretty marinas and golden sands – the whole family will be spoiled for choice.

Plage du Port Gallice in Juan-les-Pins is a local favourite tucked away on the Cap d'Antibes. This public sandy cove is backed by a faded stone wall overflowing with greenery, creating a picturesque setting. The beach enjoys a tranquil atmosphere, thanks to its sheltered location next to the humble Port Gallice harbour and its calm waters. 

With stone pools to explore, rocks to climb and the absence of watersports and beach clubs, it offers a laid-back experience, making it one of the best beaches in the south of France for family relaxation. The fine sands are relatively quiet, away from the busy roads and provide a lovely view of the Estérel hills.

Discover the untouched beauty of Plage de Notre-Dame on Île de Porquerolles. A tranquil oasis where turquoise waters meet pristine white sands – it's a paradise for families seeking serenity and adventure.

Île de Porquerolles, a car-free paradise off the Riviera, offers sandy paths, outdoor restaurants serving fresh fish and Plage de Notre-Dame is a favourite beach with the locals. Take a 20-minute ferry from Hyères, hire a bike or walk to the beach.

If you want a bit of glitz and glam this family holiday, Pampelonne in Saint-Tropez has got you covered. In true Saint-Tropez style, you can expect to find superyachts and elegant hotels dotted along the coast. 

Yet, the beach itself is public property, with some areas dedicated to the public and others to beach clubs. The beach is great if you’ve got a family with children, as there are plenty of child-friendly beach clubs such as Plage des Jumeaux. Entertainment aside, the scenery is a spectacle in its own right. With super fine sands, a clear turquoise sea and salty sea air – this is one of the best Saint-Tropez beaches for families.

Not far from the glitzy Pampelonne Beach, Ramatuelle's Plage de l’Escalet sees fewer visitors but has just as much natural charm, making it one of the best beaches in Côte d’Azur. 

You can hire a paddle board and head out onto its calm waters, climb the cliffside and rock pools, snorkel or just sunbathe and swim on its golden sands. Facilities include toilets and showers, and while there is a snack stand – bringing a picnic filled with fresh, local produce is sure to hit the spot.

Unveil the hidden gem of Antibes, Plage de la Gravette, where sun, sand and smiles abound. This sandy beach is calm and shallow enough for small children, perfect if you’ve got any youngsters in the family. 

Start your day in the Antibes market, where you can find an array of fresh olives, cheeses, cured meats and local tapenades, then head to the beach for a picnic and an afternoon of swimming and games. As a public beach, there are no private clubs, so there’s an emphasis on family fun rather than partying.

Tucked away on the pine forest-covered peninsula of St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, this hidden gem of a beach offers amazing views of the Bay of Villefranche. While it may require a bit more effort to reach, the journey is well worth it. Hidden from sight along the road with limited parking, you can opt to take a bus or enjoy a scenic walk via the Cap Ferrat coastal path. 

Plage de Passable boasts longer sun exposure compared to its neighbouring beaches, allowing for extended, balmy evenings on its pristine golden gravel shore, embraced by palm and pine trees. The beach also features a jetty for jumping off and rock pools perfect for families who love to explore.

Plage du Camp Long, also known as Tiki Beach, is one of the best beaches in France for families due to its soft sand and gentle waters. You could spend the day here simply watching the hours pass you by as the shores lap the beach. 

If you’re after something a bit more adventurous, fear not, as the beach has a variety of spots where you can kayak, paddleboard or even scuba dive. The nearby bay of Agay is just as picturesque as the beach too, covered in green rolling hills, this beach is sure to feel like a relaxing getaway.

If you’re in search of one of the best beaches in Cote d'Azur for families, make sure to check out Pointe de l'Aiguille in Théoule-sur-Mer. Nestled amongst red rocks, this beach has an individual look that adds to its charm. 

Are pebble beaches your thing? Well, Pointe de l’Aiguille’s pebbly coastline interspersed with large boulders is sure to suit you just fine. If your family likes a bit of adventure, you’ll be pleased to know that some parts of this beach are reachable via rocky paths, making the view of the cove even more worth it upon your arrival. 

For those who prefer flatter, non-rocky paths, be assured that the Pointe de l'Aiguille State Park features a variety of paths suited to differing hiking abilities.

With so many different beaches on offer, Côte d’Azur really is an excellent spot for families. From the tranquil Plage du Port Gallice to the glamorous Pampelonne in Saint-Tropez, there's something for every family. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to book your flights to Côte d’Azur – just don’t forget the beach bag.