The French Riviera has a way of stealing our hearts every time we visit. There’s just something about the way the light hits the sea, turning it into a thousand shades of blue, that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled into a dream. For us, the real magic begins when we check into a beach hotel, where mornings start with the sound of waves and evenings end with our toes in the sand and a glass of rosé in hand. Over the years, we’ve discovered some of the best beach hotels in French Riviera, and in this guide, we’re sharing our favorites that made us fall in love with this place all over again.
Table of contents
- Les Roches Rouges, a Beaumier Hotel
- Hôtel Martinez
- Hôtel & Spa Belle Plage
- Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel
- Hotel Byblos Saint-Tropez
- Tiara Miramar Beach Resort
- Monte-Carlo Beach
- Lily of the Valley
- La Villa Mauresque
- Hotel Cap Estel
- Hotel Le Negresco
- Our Verdict!
- Where to Stay in the French Riviera
- What is the best beach in the French Riviera?
- Where do celebrities stay in the French Riviera?
- Which is better, Cannes or St. Tropez?
Les Roches Rouges, a Beaumier Hotel
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Our first pick is the Les Roches Rouges, a Beaumier Hotel. The highlight for us was having direct access to a private beach, which meant lazy mornings on the sand and swims without the usual summer crowds. It felt like our own little slice of the Riviera.
However, it was the hotel’s stunning natural seawater pool carved into the rocks that stole the show. Floating there with the waves gently spilling over the edge was a memory we’ll never forget. And for days when we wanted something calmer, there was a smaller fresh-water pool overlooking the sea, perfect for watching the light change over Cap de l’Estérel.
The hotel itself has this understated charm, thanks to its 1950s modernist architecture and rooms designed to maximize the sweeping sea views. We loved the pops of color in the decor that gave the space a playful yet timeless vibe. What else can you expect? Spa treatments, yoga classes, and endless opportunities to just lounge by the water.
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Hôtel Martinez
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Best Restaurants. Say hello to Hôtel Martinez, a popular hotel set on the legendary Boulevard de la Croisette. Let’s first address the elephant in the room: its private beach. Having a stretch of sand reserved just for guests made our mornings unforgettable. We could sip our coffee with our toes in the sand and no crowds in sight, which is a rare luxury in Cannes.
Dining here was just as memorable. We loved spending lazy afternoons at Le Sud, sitting on the terrace shaded by palms and cypress trees. On special evenings, we treated ourselves to dinner at La Palme d’Or, the hotel’s fine dining restaurant, where the seafood was nothing short of art. For something more relaxed, La Plage du Martinez was our go-to, with its Mediterranean menu served just steps from the water.
Of course, the hotel has plenty of ways to indulge beyond food and beach life. The Carita Paris spa became our little sanctuary. We booked massages and facials that left us glowing, and the fitness center was great for balancing out all the Riviera feasting. But what made our stay feel special was the sense of history tied to the Cannes Film Festival. Walking through the halls, we couldn’t help but wonder which celebrities had stayed there before us.
By the way, did you know that the penthouse at this hotel is named one of the most expensive hotel rooms in the world?
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Hôtel & Spa Belle Plage
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As one of the best beach hotels in French Riviera, Hôtel & Spa Belle Plage has a lot to offer. However, the first thing that instantly captivated us was the building’s modern curves and clean design. Inside, the suites created by architect Raphaël Navot gave the place a unique character that felt fresh and stylish. Our apartment was decorated in light tones, simple but elegant, and immediately felt like the kind of space you want to relax in. On top of that, having a spa right in the hotel made it easy to unwind after a day out in Cannes.
Of course, we were here for the private beach. Being right at the start of Plage du Midi meant we didn’t have to fight for space or walk far to enjoy the sand and sea. It felt convenient and exclusive, which is rare in such a busy destination. After a swim or some beach time, we often went up to the rooftop bar. The views over the sea and the city were incredible, especially in the evening when everything lit up.
The hotel’s panoramic restaurant was another favorite. The setting alone made it worth it, but the food matched the atmosphere with refined dishes. The location in the Suquet district, next to Square Mistral, also worked well for us since it was close to local spots but still peaceful.
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Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel
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If you’re looking for a 5-star experience, consider Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel. The Belle Époque façade is instantly striking, and inside, we found a perfect mix of old and new. We especially loved strolling through the courtyard garden, which offered a peaceful break from the Croisette, and imagining the many stories this place has witnessed, from Alfred Hitchcock filming To Catch a Thief to world leaders arriving for the G20.
The real showstopper, though, was the hotel’s private beach. Few hotels in Cannes can claim one, and it made all the difference. We spent long, lazy hours stretched out on sunbeds, cooling off with quick swims in the Mediterranean, and lingering over lunches at the Carlton Beach Club. When we weren’t by the sea, the largest infinity pool in Cannes was just as tempting.
Our evenings were equally special. We loved sipping cocktails at the Carlton Bar before enjoying dinner at the hotel’s restaurant. Service was impeccable as well, whether it was organizing a car rental, fitting in a beauty treatment, or offering round-the-clock assistance. The fitness center was impressive too, though we’ll admit the beach usually won our attention.
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Hotel Byblos Saint-Tropez
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When we checked into Hotel Byblos Saint-Tropez, the first thing we noticed was how much it looked like a colorful little village. The buildings are painted in warm shades of orange, yellow, and pink, with bright shutters that give the place a relaxed Riviera feel. In the middle of it all, there’s a courtyard with a big pool surrounded by sun loungers where guests spend the afternoon unwinding.
Food was definitely a highlight during our stay. For something easy, we grabbed light bites at B by the Pool, while dinner at Cucina by Alain Ducasse felt a bit more elevated with its Italian-inspired dishes. The hotel also has a Sisley Spa, which was great after a day of walking around town. And if you’re into nightlife, Les Caves du Roy, the hotel’s famous nightclub, is right on the property.
One of the best perks of staying here is access to the hotel’s private beach club on Pampelonne Beach. There’s a free shuttle that makes the trip super convenient, and once you’re there, it’s all about relaxing on the sand with food and drinks available. Having both the lively Saint-Tropez vibe and a private beach just minutes away really made the stay feel complete.
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Tiara Miramar Beach Resort
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The Tiara Miramar Beach Resort is a special place in Théoule-sur-Mer. Just 20 minutes from Cannes, this spot feels worlds away from the bustle, offering a peaceful slice of the French Riviera that instantly set us at ease. The hotel itself is effortlessly elegant, boasting warm tones, stylish details, and a relaxed yet refined atmosphere.
One of its highlights is its private beach. Having a stretch of golden sand reserved just for hotel guests is hands-down the ultimate luxury. We loved lounging on the complimentary daybeds, sipping cold drinks, and watching the Mediterranean sparkle under the sun without the usual Riviera crowds.
The service was as seamless as the views. Every detail seemed thoughtfully handled, making our stay stress-free from start to finish. Whether it was unwinding with a glass of rosé on the terrace, enjoying the fresh coastal breeze, or simply gazing out at the horizon, every experience was flawless.
While we’re at it, make sure to also check out these 11 best B&Bs in Paris, France!
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Monte-Carlo Beach
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The Monte-Carlo Beach is a modern resort set on a rocky promontory in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin. The hotel curves along the Cap Martin coastline with sweeping sea views that immediately draw you in. With just 40 rooms and suites, this boutique hotel has an intimate feel, while the blend of French chic and Californian villa style adds a relaxed elegance.
The real highlight for us was having direct access to a private beach. Being able to slip from our balcony to the Mediterranean in minutes felt like pure indulgence, far removed from the crowds. Add in the Olympic-sized pool, a social hub since the 1920s, and we were set for days of sun-soaked relaxation. Whether swimming, lounging, or simply watching the Riviera life unfold around us, the setting couldn’t have been more perfect.
Dining and wellness at this hotel sealed the experience. We loved the fresh flavors at Elsa, lingered over easy lunches at Le Deck, and ended our nights with the buzz of Club La Vigie Monte-Carlo. When we craved balance, the spa and a calming yoga session hit the spot perfectly.
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Lily of the Valley
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Best Private Beach. Perched above the untouched stretch of Gigaro Beach, Lily of the Valley was a hidden haven we were lucky to stumble upon. Every corner of the retreat had this effortless blend of style and serenity that made us slow down. The hillside layout was striking. At the base, a wellness village wrapped around a sparkling 25-meter pool, while stairways led us up to the sea-facing terrace where another pool and sweeping Mediterranean views waited.
What made our stay extra memorable was the seamless way relaxation and activity intertwined here. We could roll out of bed and head to a yoga class, then spend the afternoon lingering at one of the hotel’s restaurants or lounging on the terrace with a glass of rosé in hand. With just 38 rooms and suites, the atmosphere stayed intimate.
And then there was the private beach, our favorite perk of all. After all, Lily is one of the best French Riviera hotels with private beach. We spent hours stretched out on sunbeds, dipping into the sea, and even trying out the Lily of the Valley Sailing Club. Having that kind of exclusive access to such an unspoilt slice of the Riviera made the whole experience feel incredibly special.
“If you love exclusivity, Lily is the perfect choice. Its private beach allowed us to enjoy the sea and sand away from the crowds.”
WOW Travel
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La Villa Mauresque
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Tucked between Saint-Raphaël and the fiery red cliffs of the Esterel, La Villa Mauresque instantly became our little hideaway by the sea. This hotel is nothing but peaceful, with lush gardens wrapped around the villa, shielding it from the outside world. Built back in 1881 by a doctor, the building carries that elegant, old-world charm, yet it’s been beautifully restored, so nothing feels outdated or heavy.
This luxurious hotel sure knows how to pamper its guests. While we were there, we had a lot of fun making splashes in the swimming pool and rejuvenating at the seaside spa. The hotel even has a boathouse where you can grab a canoe or paddleboard at no extra cost. Our favorite thing, though, is the fact that there are numerous beaches just a short stroll away. Our feet were always sandy!
Now, let’s talk about food. Breakfast here was one of our favorite activities. Every morning, we could choose to enjoy it on the terrace, right by the pool, or overlooking the sea. But the real highlight was dinner at the on-site Le Bougainvillier. Chef David Boyer, crowned Meilleur Ouvrier de France in 2023, creates dishes that feel both artful and deeply rooted in the flavors of Provence. Paired with excellent wines from the region, each meal was an experience in itself.
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Hotel Cap Estel
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Best Views. Perched right above the Mediterranean, Hotel Cap Estel in Éze is surrounded by the sea on three sides, giving us jaw-dropping views no matter where we looked. The location is unbeatable, too. It’s just 10 minutes from Monaco, Beaulieu-Sur-Mer, and St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, and about half an hour from Nice.
What we loved most was the sense of peace and exclusivity. This isn’t the kind of place where you’re bumping shoulders with tourists. On the contrary, it’s a quiet hideaway designed for true relaxation. Walking through the gardens and lounging by the infinity pool overlooking the sea were our favorite activities.
It’s easy to see why this hotel has become a favorite among celebrities. There’s a refined charm here that feels effortless, never flashy, and it makes the whole experience unforgettable. Whether we were enjoying a long breakfast with the waves as our backdrop or simply soaking up the golden Riviera sunsets, every moment felt special.
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Hotel Le Negresco
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Best Luxury. Calling Hotel Le Negresco an icon in Nice is probably an understatement. We had heard a lot of nice things about this hotel, but once we arrived, we knew why it’s loved by travelers. Inside, this place is like a museum, with nearly 6,000 works of art on display. Every hallway and corner seemed to tell a different story, from pieces dating back to the time of Louis XIII all the way up to modern creations.
Of course, Le Negresco isn’t just about the art; it’s a true symbol of French refinement on the Côte d’Azur. Dining here is an experience in itself. The hotel has two gourmet restaurants, and we treated ourselves to dinner at La Rotonde. Sitting beneath its whimsical starry ceiling, we enjoyed a beautifully crafted three-course meal that felt both indulgent and dreamlike.
And the best part? The beach was just across the street. After our meal, we strolled outside, crossed over to the Promenade des Anglais, and found ourselves by the pebbled shore with the Mediterranean stretching endlessly before us. We truly didn’t want our stay at this flawless hotel to end.
Read also: 11 Most Expensive Hotels in France
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Our Verdict!
Which of the best beach hotels in French Riviera above should you choose? We’ve created a more curated list to help you make your decision. Take a look!
- Best Luxury: Hotel Le Negresco
- Best Views: Hotel Cap Estel
- Best Private Beach: Lily of the Valley
- Best Restaurants: Hôtel Martinez
Where to Stay in the French Riviera
If it’s your first time visiting the French Riviera, Nice is hands down the best place to base yourself. The city sits right on the Mediterranean, with its famous Promenade des Anglais stretching for miles along the sea. While the beaches here are mostly pebbled, they’re beautifully maintained and perfect for sunbathing or people-watching. What makes Nice so convenient is that it offers a little bit of everything: beach clubs, old-town charm, bustling markets, and easy access to public transportation.
Up next is Cannes. Unlike most of the Riviera, Cannes is known for its long stretches of sandy beaches, making it a favorite for travelers who want soft golden sand instead of pebbles. Staying here means you can spend your days soaking up the sun at private beach clubs along La Croisette, or if you prefer, you can find free public beaches with just as stunning views. Beyond the shoreline, Cannes has a lively personality. It boasts glitzy shopping, an exciting dining scene, and of course, the famous film festival that draws celebrities from all over the world.
Saint-Tropez is the French Riviera’s most legendary beach destination, once beloved by artists and writers, and later transformed into a playground for celebrities and jet-setters. If you’re dreaming of chic beach clubs, cocktails in the sand, and lively nightlife, this is the place to be. The famous Pampelonne Beach is where you’ll find legendary clubs like Club 55, but Saint-Tropez also has quieter coves and less-crowded beaches if you want a slower pace.
What is the best beach in the French Riviera?
Paloma Beach in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is often considered the best beach in the French Riviera, thanks to its crystal-clear waters and stunning views of the bay. It’s a mix of public and private areas, making it both glamorous and accessible.
Where do celebrities stay in the French Riviera?
Celebrities often stay in Saint-Tropez, especially around Pampelonne Beach, where exclusive villas and iconic beach clubs like Club 55 are their go-to spots.
Which is better, Cannes or St. Tropez?
Cannes is better if you want sandy beaches, a lively city vibe, and easier access to transportation around the Riviera. Saint-Tropez is better if you’re after exclusivity, iconic beach clubs, and a more glamorous, upscale escape.
