Bay of Sainte-Maxime

Protected from cold winds by the Massif des Maures mountain range, the Bay of Sainte-Maxime is an unmissable destination for sun-seekers in the Côte d’Azur. Alongside its breath-taking beaches, the area also boasts a whole host of additional attractions and activities including an 800-capacity marina and sailing school. From the opportunity to try a seasonal water sport, to admiring views from the comfort of a beach lounger, this beautiful bay will provide entertainment for the whole family.

City Centre Beach

The ‘plage du centre ville’ offers exactly as its name suggests, a beautiful stretch of fine sand and azure sea conveniently located in the city centre. Lie back and take in the view, or opt for a dip in the bay safe in the knowledge that a seasonal lifeguard service is on-hand...before taking a shower in onsite facilities. The centrally located beach offers disabled access and parking, while a handful of restaurants serve the likes of Mediterranean cuisine and provide luxury beach loungers for those seeking a little more comfort.

However, with shop-lined streets only a stone’s throw away and the marina directly next door, this beach offers so much more than somewhere to simply soak up the sun. The Simon Lorière Promenade runs adjacent to the east of the beach and along the port. Interspersed with trees, this area is home to both the city’s tourist office and the Théâtre de la Mer; a 1,300 capacity entertainment venue that hosts seasonal concerts, shows and fairs. The Casino Barrière also overlooks the beach, while the sand itself comes to an abrupt end thanks to the Préconil river and the Pont du Préconil; a 1930’s bridge that can be lit-up in the colours of the French flag at night.

La Croisette Beach

A five-minute walk to the west of the city centre will lead to the 900-metre-long Croisette Beach. This narrow curve of sand and pebbles is famed for two things; its awe-inspiring views, and its very own sailing school. Le Club Nautique offers courses and competitions for budding sailors aged seven upwards, including introductions for beginners and more challenging intermediate activities. Meanwhile, those seeking a more relaxing option can take in the beautiful panoramic backdrop over the Bay of Sainte-Maxime and out to the glittering Bay of Saint-Tropez.

Disabled access and parking are available, while lifeguards are active between mid-June and mid-September, ensuring the whole family can swim safely. Restaurants offer refreshments, while public showers are provided to wash away the sand from inbetween toes.

Sainte-Maxime Port

The vast Sainte-Maxime Port can house up to 800 boats measuring up to 25 metres long. While the land-based admire these impressive modes of transport, seafarers can take advantage of services such as fresh water, electricity, washing facilities and a fuelling station. Over the centuries, the area has transformed from an 18th century port that was used to transport produce from the Massif des Maures, to an expanded commercial marina by the 1970’s that attracted both leisure and business travellers.

Though boat-lovers can happily wander along the promenade for hours, its docks also offer a variety of activities. There’s the chance to try parasailing or go diving in over 40 sites, however it's Les Bateaux Verts that remains one of the city’s biggest attractions. Alongside providing a speedy shuttle service over to Saint-Tropez and Port Grimaud, it also offers excursions to the likes of the star-studded city of Cannes and Ste-Marguerite Island; the fort on which the ‘Man in the Iron Mask’ was imprisoned.

Whether you choose to take a dip in its crystal-clear waters, admire its views or navigate a boat over it, the Bay of Sainte-Maxime can offer fun-filled activities suitable for all ages.