While staying at one of the many holiday villas in Provence, be sure to enjoy some of the beautiful beaches the area has to offer. Whether you prefer the flash of the ones frequented by celebrities with their accompanying paparazzi or the quieter ones where the locals gather for some fun in the surf, this famous region in southern France has something for everyone.
Saint-Tropez
Probably the most famous collection of beaches in Provence are clustered near the town of Saint-Tropez or "St. Trop" as it is known locally. The best ones are located south of the town itself along the coast of the Bay of Pampelonne. Tahiti Beach is known as a hot spot for the rich and famous, but be aware that due to its clothing-is-optional policy, you may see more of a sunbather than you might wish. Locals tend to gravitate to beaches closer to the town itself, like the Plage des Graniers or the Bouillabaisse. Both can be crowded but are still attractive spots for a swim or family fun in the sand.
Le Lavandou
Less well-known but equally beautiful are the beaches at Le Lavandou. The atmosphere is more relaxed here than in Saint-Tropez, and the area is a popular vacation spot for families. Divers will enjoy taking the plunge in crystal-clear waters to examine the diverse marine life of the Mediterranean. The variety among the 12 beaches of Le Lavandou are part of the area's attraction. For example, Central beach is large and often crowded but is also an ideal place for people-watching. Cavaliere is perfect for those who enjoy water and beach sports such as volleyball, diving, sailing and water-skiing. For a romantic getaway try the remote L'Elephant. It may be a bit hard to get to, but the seclusion and beauty of the cove are worth the effort.
Marseille
Of the various stretches of beach along the coast of Marseille, the Plage du Prado is the most popular. While visitors still come to enjoy the usual activities one associates with a beach, one of the main attractions is out on the waves. The strong winds and choppy water here are ideal for wind-surfing, and enthusiasts come from all over the globe to engage in the sport. The plage (French for beach) is part of the Prado Seaside Park, a 26-hectare oasis that was reclaimed from the sea in the 70s. The park includes lush greenery, a small lake and a heavily decorated skateboarding facility that is internationally famous.
Nice
Further east up the coast in the area known as the French Riviera lies the town of Nice and its historic Promenade des Anglais. This long road borders an extensive collection of celebrated public and private beaches. The private beaches charge for the use of the lounge chairs and parasols, so along with the cost of food and drink from the beach's restaurants and stands, a day in the sun can be expensive. Public beaches are interspersed with the private ones, however. A surprise to many visitors, too, is that the majority of the beaches are pebbly rather than sandy.
No matter where in the region your Provence villa is located, a trip to one of southern France's beautiful beaches is well worth the drive. Let Vamoose be your guide to the best ones. Find a holiday villa today by sorting through rentals based on price, location, amenities and other features.