Antibes Beaches Guide: Best Beaches in 2026
Public beaches, private beach clubs, and hidden coves
Antibes has over 25 kilometers of coastline with diverse beaches: sandy stretches, pebble shores, private beach clubs with loungers, and free public beaches. Here’s everything you need to know about beaches in Antibes.
💡 Beach Types: Public beaches are free but can be crowded in summer. Private beaches (plages privées) charge €20-40 per day for sun lounger and umbrella, but offer more space, comfort, and restaurant service.
Best Public Beaches in Antibes
Plage de la Gravette
Located just outside the old town ramparts, La Gravette is a small, sheltered sandy beach protected by ancient stone walls. Perfect for families with children due to shallow, calm water.
- Type: Sand
- Size: Small (gets crowded)
- Facilities: Showers, toilets nearby
- Access: 5-minute walk from old town
- Best for: Families, children, quick beach visit after sightseeing
Plage du Ponteil
Long public beach with both sand and pebble sections. More space than La Gravette. Several beach restaurants and cafés line the promenade.
- Type: Mixed sand and pebble
- Size: Large
- Facilities: Showers, toilets, restaurants, parking nearby
- Access: 15-minute walk from old town or bus
- Best for: Longer beach days, groups, water sports
Plage de la Salis
Beautiful sandy beach with stunning views of the old town and mountains. Popular with locals. Walking path along the shore connects to Cap d’Antibes.
- Type: Sand
- Size: Large
- View: Panoramic view of Vieil Antibes and Maritime Alps
- Facilities: Showers, parking, restaurants
- Best for: Scenic views, sunset, photography
Juan-les-Pins Beaches
The Juan-les-Pins district (part of Antibes) has the best sandy beaches in the area. The main beach runs along Boulevard du Littoral.
Plage de Juan-les-Pins (Main Beach)
Long stretch of fine sandy beach with both public sections and private beach clubs. Lively atmosphere with beach bars and water sports.
- Type: Fine sand
- Atmosphere: Vibrant, young crowd, music
- Activities: Water sports, paddle boarding, jet ski rentals
- Best for: Younger visitors, nightlife, beach parties
Private Beach Clubs
Private beaches (plages privées) offer sun loungers, umbrellas, towel service, showers, and restaurants. You pay for a lounger (€20-50 per day depending on location and season) which typically includes use of facilities.
What You Get at Private Beaches
- Comfortable sun lounger and large umbrella
- More personal space (not overcrowded)
- Restaurant service at your lounger
- Showers, changing rooms, toilets
- Sometimes pool access
- Towels (some locations)
Cap d’Antibes Beaches
The Cap d’Antibes peninsula has rocky coastline with several small coves and exclusive beach clubs.
Plage de la Garoupe
Sandy beach on Cap d’Antibes, considered one of the most beautiful in the area. Mix of public beach and upscale private beach clubs. Crystal-clear water.
- Type: Sand
- Water quality: Excellent, very clear
- Atmosphere: Upscale, quieter
- Access: Car or bike recommended (3km from Antibes center)
Beach Practical Information
What to Bring
- Beach mat or towel: Essential for public beaches (no loungers)
- Sunscreen: High SPF recommended (Mediterranean sun is strong)
- Water and snacks: Beach vendors sell drinks but at high prices
- Cash: For parking, ice cream vendors, private beach clubs
- Water shoes: Useful for pebble beaches
Swimming Safety
- Mediterranean has no tides, but currents can be strong
- Watch for flag warnings (green = safe, orange = caution, red = no swimming)
- Lifeguards present on main beaches in summer (June-September)
- Jellyfish occasionally present (not dangerous species, but can sting)
Best Time to Visit
- Peak season: July-August (very crowded, arrive early)
- Best months: June, September (warm water, fewer crowds)
- Shoulder season: May, October (water cooler, but pleasant weather)
- Best time of day: Before 10:00 or after 16:00 to avoid crowds and strongest sun
Parking
Parking near beaches is limited and expensive in summer (€3-5 per hour). Consider:
- Arriving early (before 10:00) for parking spots
- Using public buses (line 2, 8, 14 serve beaches)
- Biking (bike paths connect most beaches)
- Walking from accommodations in center (La Gravette is 5-minute walk)
Discover Antibes Beyond the Beach
After your beach day, explore the history and culture of Antibes on our guided historical walking tour. Discover 2,400 years of Mediterranean history in the charming old town.
15% early bird discount when you book 1 month in advance • €30 per person • Available in English & French