Beaches abound in the Côte d’Azur, but finding one that stands out from all the rest is quite a task. The French southern coastline is one of the most beautiful beach destinations in Europe. The versatility of beaches is endless; You can have your pick between white sandy beaches, organized family beaches, unspoiled coves, rocky and rugged hide-aways, and bustling stretches of coastline with a boardwalk and seafront beach clubs. However, Plage de Saint Clair – or Saint Clair Beach- undisputed stole my heart. I stayed here 4 days, and I plan to return very soon.
Watch my short video(30 secs):
How to get there
Plage de Saint Clair is just outside of Le Lavandou. It is said to be the best and warmest beach in the Côte d’Azur due to its sheltered location. This sun drenched beach is surrounded by mountains with fragrant pine trees. On the horizon you get a glimpse of the heavenly island Porquerolles. St Clair beach can easily be reached by car, or if you like, on foot from the larger and more popular Grand Plage and Le Lavandou town center. Just follow the coastal path – le sentier du littoral – with beautiful scenic views. Saint Clair beach is a large, white sand beach with clear warm waters, umbrella and lounger rentals, and lots of seaside restaurants to choose from. It is family-friendly due to its moderate current and shallow waters.
Where to eat
Plage Saint Clair is lined with beachfront restaurants at Boulevard de la Baleine. The most perfect spot for lunch is La Pinède. It is always packed so reservations are needed. This was also my favourite spot to rent a sun bed and spent my day tanning.
For an aperitif, ice cream or refreshing drink at the end of your beaching day I went to Plage Les Canaris. Do try the pampelmousse rose!
For dinner I recommend Bistr’eau Ryon where the daily special is always good.
Where to stay – My favourite airbnb apartment
I stayed at the most perfect airbnb apartment in Saint Clair in a quiet friendly neighbourhood. I had my own garden and small terrace where each morning, I would indulge in freshly baked croissants and baguettes that I got at the bakery across the street. The apartment is only a 5-minute walk from Plage de Saint Clair. There is a small convenient store, a cafe, a chapel, and a restaurant across the street from the apartment. The airbnb apartment is ideally located as it is only 1 minute of the main coastal road to Saint Tropez and to Hyères.
