The Côte d'Azur is well-known for its luxurious beach bars, where you can savour Mediterranean flavours with your feet in the sand.
These beach bars create the perfect backdrop for a summer spent enjoying Provence's coastal beauty. Here are five of the best beach bars, each open from late spring to early autumn, ensuring the Riviera's finest experiences during the season.
Baba at Cap d'Antibes Beach Hotel – Cap d'Antibes
Baba at Cap d'Antibes Beach Hotel embodies the refined charm of the Côte d'Azur, blending sophistication with the ease of coastal relaxation. This elegant beach bar stands out with its chic, contemporary design and plush seating arrangements, creating a serene yet stylish environment where guests can unwind by the sea. Known for its expertly crafted cocktails and fresh seafood dishes, Baba has earned a loyal following from both locals and visitors who appreciate its dedication to quality and taste. The bar’s menu reflects a thoughtful selection of Mediterranean flavours, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients, served in a way that enhances the natural ambiance of the surroundings.
With attentive service and a setting that balances elegance with comfort, Baba at Cap d'Antibes Beach Hotel invites guests to experience the Riviera at its finest. Whether enjoying a sunny afternoon or an early evening on the terrace, visitors can indulge in the beauty of the Cap d'Antibes coastline. This spot is perfect for those looking to combine luxury with the laid-back rhythm of a beachside escape, making it a must-visit destination for an elevated experience on the French Riviera.
Le Puisette Plage – Saint-Raphaël, Var
Le Puisette Plage, located in Saint-Raphaël, offers an authentic Côte d'Azur beach experience. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and views of the Mediterranean, this spot allows guests to unwind while indulging in local wines and fresh seafood. This bar is a favourite among locals who appreciate its friendly service and prime beachfront location.
The menu at Le Puisette Plage celebrates the region’s seafood, with a variety of fresh fish options that embody the flavours of the Mediterranean. Dishes feature locally sourced cod, expertly prepared salmon, and maigre – a prized fish known for its delicate taste and texture. Each dish is crafted to highlight the natural freshness of the ingredients, often complemented by seasonal vegetables and Provençal herbs. Why not spend a leisurely afternoon here and soak up the coastal charm?
La Cabane Bambou – Pampelonne Beach, Ramatuelle
La Cabane Bambou is known for its warm atmosphere, where large communal tables encourage groups of friends and families to linger over aperitifs and seafood platters as the sun sets. The menu showcases Mediterranean flavours, and a standout choice is their whole-grilled fish, sourced locally and served simply with fresh herbs and seasonal accompaniments that let the flavours shine. Their options include dishes made with cod, salmon, and maigre, each cooked to perfection and reflecting the freshness of the Côte d'Azur’s coastline.La Cabane Bambou brings a blend of natural beauty and rustic charm, inviting guests to experience the Côte d'Azur in a relaxed, unpretentious setting.
amidst dense greenery and accessed via a charming bamboo path, La Cabane Bambou feels worlds away from the bustling Pampelonne beach clubs nearby. The bar’s unique design, featuring driftwood accents, knotted ropes, and bright fabrics, infuses a bohemian vibe that perfectly mirrors the relaxed philosophy of its founders, who see vacations as a time to connect, relax, and enjoy the moment.
Le Club 55 – Pampelonne Beach, Ramatuelle
Le Club 55 on Pampelonne Beach is a legendary destination that embodies the glamour and charm of the French Riviera. Known for its upscale yet understated atmosphere, Le Club 55 attracts a discerning crowd who appreciate its blend of exclusivity and laid-back elegance. Over the years, this iconic beach club has welcomed everyone from celebrities and jet-setters to local families and loyal regulars who consider it an essential part of their summer routine. Here, you might spot film stars mingling discreetly, artists and writers seeking inspiration, and international visitors drawn to its storied history and classic Provençal ambiance.
The setting is effortlessly chic, with rustic wooden tables shaded by white parasols and the soft murmur of the Mediterranean just steps away. Guests appreciate the attentive service, thoughtful yet unfussy decor, and a menu that highlights fresh, local ingredients, from crisp salads to the signature basket of crudités and daily grilled fish selections. At Le Club 55, dining is not just about the food but about enjoying the Riviera’s lifestyle, where meals stretch on into the afternoon, and time feels less pressing. Will Le Club 55 become a staple in your summer plans?
Le Plongeoir – Nice
Perched on rock formations extending into the Mediterranean, Le Plongeoir in Nice offers a dining experience like no other. Suspended above the sea, this iconic restaurant allows guests to enjoy the Côte d'Azur’s beauty from a unique, elevated vantage point. The atmosphere here is one of effortless sophistication, attracting a mix of adventurous locals, romantic couples, and curious travellers eager to experience this one-of-a-kind setting.
Menu highlights include their delicate fish carpaccio, expertly prepared grilled octopus, and seafood pasta, all crafted to enhance the restaurant's scenic location above the waves. Though not a traditional beach bar, Le Plongeoir’s stunning setting and carefully curated menu make it an essential Côte d'Azur destination. Guests come for the views, stay for the cuisine, and leave with the memories. Is it any wonder this spot has become a must-visit on the Riviera?
These five spots truly capture the Riviera’s coastal charm, each bringing its own style to the vibrant beach bar scene. Which of these will make it onto your list of summer favourites?
A bientôt,
The Provence Holidays Team
