The Best Beach Clubs in the French Riviera: St. Tropez, Cannes, Nice are more than sun-soaked destinations, they’re experiences that define luxury travel along the Côte d’Azur. Whether you’re seeking a glamorous party scene, tranquil waterfront dining, or sophisticated seaside service, the beach clubs in St. Tropez, Cannes, and Nice are where Mediterranean magic meets curated comfort.
This guide will help you navigate the top beach clubs across these iconic French Riviera towns, including expert tips, pricing insights, and a handy comparison table. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning for another sun-kissed escape, here’s everything you need to know to find your perfect seaside sanctuary.
Why the Beach Clubs of the French Riviera Are World-Famous
The French Riviera has long been synonymous with luxury, elegance, and international celebrity appeal. The beach club culture here is not about simply renting a sun lounger, it’s a full-service lifestyle experience. From curated wine lists and live DJ sets to Mediterranean fusion cuisine and top-tier customer service, the Best Beach Clubs in the French Riviera: St. Tropez, Cannes, Nice set the global standard.
What makes these clubs unique is their ability to blend nature’s beauty with luxury comforts. Whether nestled on a cliffside or spread across wide sandy beaches, each location is carefully designed to deliver a distinct vibe, from peaceful minimalism to Champagne-fueled celebrations.
St. Tropez: Best Beach Clubs on the French Riviera
Club 55
No list of the Best Beach Clubs in the French Riviera: St. Tropez, Cannes, Nice is complete without Club 55. Located on Pampelonne Beach, this legendary institution embodies understated elegance. Once frequented by Brigitte Bardot, Club 55 still attracts A-listers, entrepreneurs, and European royalty. Expect classic Provençal fare, white linens, and a rustic yet elegant atmosphere.
Best for: Celebrity watchers, iconic French Riviera vibes
Link: Best luxury hotels in St. Tropez
Nikki Beach
If you’re craving a beachside party with Champagne showers, international DJs, and a see-and-be-seen crowd, Nikki Beach is your top pick. Known for lavish Sunday brunches and themed parties, this venue delivers glamour and energy in equal parts.
Best for: Party-goers, bachelorette groups, jet-setters
Tip: Make reservations well in advance during high season.
Verde Beach
Stylish and effortlessly cool, Verde Beach offers a curated beach club experience with elevated cuisine, chic décor, and DJ-spun afternoon sets. Ideal for those who want both fine dining and a festive scene.
Try this: The beef carpaccio or truffle pizzetta for a late lunch before the crowd shifts into evening mode.
La Réserve à la Plage
Designed by Philippe Starck, this beach club is ideal for those looking to unwind in luxury. Think driftwood furniture, linen daybeds, and minimalist luxury. The on-site spa services and curated cocktail list make it a standout for couples.
Byblos Beach
A part of the iconic Hotel Byblos, this beach club offers refined service, gorgeous sea views, and gourmet Mediterranean dishes. It’s slightly less chaotic than other Pampelonne staples, making it great for relaxed days.
Cannes Beach Clubs on the French Riviera
Carlton Beach Club
This iconic beach club sits in front of the InterContinental Carlton Hotel and radiates old-world Riviera charm. With its pristine white loungers, elegant umbrellas, and vintage flair, it’s ideal for those who appreciate glamour without the flash.
Best for: Film festival vibes, timeless style
Link: Best luxury hotels in Cannes
Mademoiselle Gray Plage Barrière
A more relaxed, artistic beach club with soft boho aesthetics, Mademoiselle Gray attracts a younger crowd looking for a chic escape. Lounge in the sand while sipping herbal-infused cocktails under macrame-draped canopies.
Vibe: Relaxed luxury with an international twist.
Barrière Beach (Le Majestic)
Part of the Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic, this club combines 5-star service with comfort. Large cabanas, attentive service, and family-friendly perks like a supervised kids’ area make it ideal for travelers with little ones.
La Guérite (Île Sainte-Marguerite)
For a truly unique experience, take a boat to this island beach club off Cannes. It’s part beach club, part fine-dining hideaway. Nestled among pine trees and rocky coastline, it offers a peaceful yet lively setting with music and gourmet seafood.
Nice: Top Beach Clubs on the French Riviera
Le Galet
Le Galet makes the list of the Best Beach Clubs in the French Riviera: St. Tropez, Cannes, Nice for its unbeatable location and value. Situated right on the Promenade des Anglais, it’s a favorite among locals for weekend relaxation. The Italian-Mediterranean menu and minimalist design make it ideal for those seeking understated charm.
Castel Plage
Tucked under Castle Hill, Castel Plage offers stunning views and a more intimate atmosphere. It’s a favorite for sunset cocktails and romantic lunches. Their seafood menu and chic ambiance make it one of the most scenic spots in Nice.
Tip: Time your meal around sunset and enjoy the walk up to the hilltop afterward.
Beau Rivage
This long-standing club is a Nice institution. Expect classic service, clean facilities, and live acoustic performances on select evenings. It’s family-friendly, and the waterfront restaurant serves reliably good food without pretension.
Quick Comparison Table
| Beach Club | Town | Vibe | Sun-bed Price Range (€) | Best For | Season | Insider Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Club 55 | St. Tropez | Old-money chic | 60–95 | Celebrity spotting | Apr–Oct | Book weeks ahead in July |
| Nikki Beach | St. Tropez | High-energy party | 70–120 | Big-budget groups | May–Sep | Minimum spends apply |
| Verde Beach | St. Tropez | Trendy & gourmet | 65–110 | Foodies | Apr–Oct | Try the truffle pizzetta |
| La Réserve Plage | St. Tropez | Zen & stylish | 80–130 | Couples | May–Sep | Book a massage cabana |
| Byblos Beach | St. Tropez | Jet-set classic | 70–115 | Hotel guests & families | Apr–Oct | Ask for a pier lounger |
| Carlton Beach Club | Cannes | Vintage glam | 60–90 | Classic elegance | Mar–Nov | Visit during the film fest |
| Mademoiselle Gray | Cannes | Boho luxury | 55–85 | Young professionals | Apr–Oct | Stay for the sunset set |
| Barrière Beach | Cannes | Grand hotel vibe | 65–100 | Families | Apr–Oct | Weekend kids’ club available |
| La Guérite | Cannes (Island) | Secluded island | 75–100 | Couples & foodies | May–Sep | Arrive via shuttle boat |
| Le Galet | Nice | Urban chic | 35–55 | Locals & tourists | Mar–Nov | No reservations—come early |
| Castel Plage | Nice | Scenic & serene | 30–50 | Romantic lunches | May–Oct | Hike up Castle Hill after |
| Beau Rivage | Nice | Classic Riviera | 35–55 | All ages | Mar–Nov | Best sunset cocktails |
How to Choose the Best Beach Club for You
When selecting among the Best Beach Clubs in the French Riviera: St. Tropez, Cannes, Nice, consider your preferences:
Party vs. Peace – Nikki Beach for parties, La Réserve for peace
Family-Friendly – Barrière Beach in Cannes, Beau Rivage in Nice
Gastronomy – Verde Beach, La Guérite, and Castel Plage stand out
Budget – Nice offers more affordable options without sacrificing charm
Scenic Value – St. Tropez for soft sand and celebrity views, Nice for dramatic cliffs and turquoise water
Insider Tips for Visiting French Riviera Beach Clubs
Book Early – High season (July–August) means weeks-in-advance reservations, especially in St. Tropez.
Time of Arrival – Aim to arrive by 11 a.m. for front-row loungers. Many clubs release no-show beds at 12:30 p.m.
What to Wear – Light linens, swimsuits, and sandals are standard. Some venues may have “smart casual” lunch policies.
Payments & Tips – Most clubs accept contactless cards; a 10% tip is customary for excellent service.
Getting There – St. Tropez requires a car or water shuttle. Cannes and Nice clubs are mostly walkable from the city center.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best time of year to visit?
June and September offer warm temperatures and fewer crowds, with slightly lower pricing.
Do I have to rent a sunbed?
Not always. Most clubs offer restaurant-only reservations or walk-in bar seating. Just make sure to inquire in advance.
Are these beach clubs open year-round?
Most clubs open from April to October, but some in Nice and Cannes stay open until November.
What should I budget?
Expect to spend €150–€250 per person in St. Tropez, €100–€180 in Cannes, and €70–€120 in Nice for a full day including food and drinks.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re drawn to the exclusive energy of Nikki Beach, the historic charm of Club 55, or the scenic beauty of Castel Plage, the Best Beach Clubs in the French Riviera: St. Tropez, Cannes, Nice offer something for every kind of traveler. Book ahead, dress the part, and let the Mediterranean work its magic.
Don’t forget to check out our guides to the best luxury hotels in Cannes and best luxury hotels in St. Tropez to complete your Riviera dream escape.
💡 Planning a full French Riviera itinerary? Visit the Official Côte d’Azur France Tourism Board for local events, maps, and updated travel tips.
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