If you’re planning a holiday focused on the best Menton beaches, you’re in for a treat—the French Riviera offers some of the best places, with a mix of sandy bays, striking coves, and scenic promenades that create a memorable seaside experience. Menton’s coastline and the old town of Menton are easy to explore, offering options for a quiet escape, watersports, or a leisurely stroll between historic sites. Once you arrive, you’ll quickly notice the Mediterranean charm and effortless access to the best Menton beach experiences among the many beaches of Menton, all within a compact, walkable town that is a perfect day trip from Nice.
Best Hotels in Menton🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Villa Genesis
- ✨ 5-Star: 3 pièces climatisé avec terrasse
- 🏨 4-Star: Hôtel Riva Art & Spa
- 🛏 3-Star: Ibis Styles Menton Centre
- 💸 Cheap: Ibis budget Menton Bord de Mer
- 🏢 Apartment: Résidence Hôtelière Chambord au coeur de Menton
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Best Western Premier Hotel Prince de Galles
- 🏩 For Couples: Hôtel De Londres
Quick Guide to the Best Beaches 📃
- 🏝️ Wide Sandy Bay — Les Sablettes Beach
- 🪨 Dramatic Cliffs — Plage du Fossan Beach
- 🌊 Harborfront Views — Plage du Casino Beach
- 🌞 Seaside Promenade — Plage de Rondelli Beach
- 🛶 Sporty Spot — Plage du Borrigo Beach
- 🔵 Secluded Gem — Garavan Beach
- 🍋 Citrusy Escape — Carnolès Beach
- 🌿 Local Favorite — Plage de Menton Beach
1. Les Sablettes Beach: Classic Sandy Bay Along the Promenade
The sand here is soft under your toes, and the water is calm and clear—perfect for a morning swim. I found locals enjoying coffee near the beachfront café, close to some private beach clubs, watching the boats bob just offshore. Les Sablettes is a public beach, a long beach of about 600 meters, ideal for sunbathing from May to September when the Mediterranean sun is brightest. The beautiful views here are legendary—especially for those seeking a perfect spot on the French Riviera.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Walking along the Boulevard de Garavan and the beaches on the eastern side, you’re treated to Belle Époque architecture and the best of French town life. The Promenade du Soleil, with its sweeping sea views, is a must for anyone who loves beautiful beaches. Locals often retreat to the tiny cove near Pont Sainte-Anne, a quiet beach in the bay, for peaceful moments away from the crowds. The nearest bus stop is Place d’Arles, and arriving before 11 AM always means an easy seaside day.
- Pro: Classic Riviera atmosphere with direct access to the most scenic shoreline promenade.
- Con: Gets crowded in summer—visit early for tranquility.
Best For: Families and anyone wanting classic sandy beaches with full facilities.
Skip If: You want rugged nature or seclusion—try Garavan Beach instead.
Best Hotels near Les Sablettes Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Hôtel De Londres — Features beachfront location with soundproof rooms and a charming flower garden just 25 meters from the Mediterranean.
- Princess Et Richmond — Offers hot tub facilities, private beach access, and stunning sea views from the beachfront esplanade.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Ibis Styles Menton Centre — Combines modern design with excellent breakfast just 100 meters from the sea and close to the Jean Cocteau Museum.
2. Plage du Fossan Beach: Rocky Drama Below the Old Town
Tall cliffs rise behind you as you step onto the pebbles; the sound of waves echoes off the rocks above one of Menton’s most dramatic beaches. After a hike up to Saint-Michel church, I cooled off with a dip in the turquoise water. Fossan is a pebble beach, just 300 meters long, with the coolest waters in spring and fall, making it a great small beach to visit.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Climb Rue Longue to the Basilica of Saint Michel for panoramic views of the beautiful coastline, then head to the Old Port for a coffee, soaking in the history of the place that makes Menton so special. Locals love the hidden stairway near Rue Saint-Michel, leading to a peaceful, shaded spot above the sea—a perfect place to relax. The nearest parking is at Place de la Liberté, and the best time for solitude is early evening.
- Pro: Dramatic scenery and great for adventurers or photographers seeking the best places.
- Con: Hard to lounge comfortably on pebbles—bring a mat.
Best For: Travelers seeking dramatic cliffside views and a sense of history.
Skip If: You need gentle sands; Les Sablettes is more comfortable for relaxing.
Best Hotels near Plage du Fossan Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Ibis Styles Menton Centre — Located in the heart of Menton’s historic district with stylish rooms and generous breakfast buffet.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Best Western Hotel Mediterranee Menton — Delivers reliable comfort with a panoramic terrace, central location, and excellent value near the beaches around the Old Port.
3. Plage du Casino Beach: Harborfront Charm by the Old Port
Morning light sparkles on the sea, while the gentle harbor atmosphere makes it easy to slip into the local rhythm. I enjoyed watching French boules players on the square just west of the Menton casino and a great spot close to beach restaurants at Place du Cap. This small pebble beach is about 150 meters long, making it a nice beach for a cool swim from June to September.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Explore the Old Town and Place du Cap for lively evening energy, including inviting places to eat, then visit the Jean Cocteau Museum for unique art. Locals often relax on the old boat ramp—a quiet place just east of the harbor wall. The Plage du Casino tram stop is the closest public transport, and evenings here offer lively but relaxed vibes for those who enjoy the city of Menton’s social scene.
- Pro: Excellent access to Menton’s cultural heart and the best restaurants in the Menton town centre.
- Con: Small size and busy during festivals—go midweek for more space.
Best For: Couples and culture lovers seeking charm and convenience.
Skip If: You want open water for swimming—Plage de Rondelli is better for laps.
Best Hotels near Plage du Casino Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Princess Et Richmond — Beachfront elegance just 500 meters from the casino and city centre with wellness amenities.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Best Western Hotel Mediterranee Menton — Features large beds, private balconies, and a fantastic breakfast in the town centre.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Hotel Palm Garavan — Simple and welcoming with a relaxing terrace, friendly hosts, and a quiet street location near the harbour.
4. Plage de Rondelli Beach: Spacious Promenade and Paddling Waters
Wide, flat sands stretch out, perfect for a morning run or lazy picnic beside the sea. On my walk, I discovered a hidden mural on the boulevard’s underpass, a glimpse of the creative spirit around Menton’s beaches. Rondelli is a sandy spot, about 400 meters long, with calm waters in summer—ideal for families.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
The Promenade du Soleil is lively, connecting to Les Sablettes and Rondelli, making it easy to hop between beaches on the western side of town. Locals head to the tiny cove near Avenue Boyer for quiet sunbathing away from the crowds—a perfect place for those seeking a quieter beach experience. The closest tram stop is Avenue Félix Faure, and early mornings here are blissfully serene.
- Pro: Plenty of space for kids to play, smooth access to cafes and shops in the Menton town centre.
- Con: No dramatic scenery—just simple, reliable seaside fun.
Best For: Families and anyone who just wants to relax.
Skip If: You crave wild, untouched coast—Garavan Beach has more rugged beauty.
Best Hotels near Plage de Rondelli Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Princess Et Richmond — Prime seafront position with wellness amenities and easy strolling access to both beaches.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Chambord — Recently renovated property in the heart of town with quick beach access and helpful staff.
5. Plage du Borrigo Beach: Windswept Escape Near the Italian Border
Dunes of golden sand and soft winds make Borrigo feel wild compared to Menton’s more groomed spots. I found driftwood sculptures left by local artists along the shore. This sandy beach, the beach of Borrigo, is about 200 meters long, popular with windsurfers in spring and fall.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
The Cap Martin district, a picturesque French town with pine trees and Belle Epoque villas, is perfect for an afternoon stroll east of the town. Locals treasure the picnic spot beneath the umbrella pines by the Cap Martin train station. The beach is a short walk from the Carnolès train stop—arrive in the morning for easy parking and calmer winds.
- Pro: Windsurfing hotspot with a wild, natural feel, and a taste of the French Riviera’s variety of beaches.
- Con: Fewer facilities, so pack your own picnic.
Best For: Adventurers and watersports fans seeking the best beaches for surfing.
Skip If: You prefer gentle swimming and cafés—plage de Carnolès is softer and more relaxed.
Best Hotels near Plage du Borrigo Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Best Western Premier Hotel Prince de Galles — Full-service beachfront hotel with fitness center, bicycle rental, and excellent breakfast near the Italian border.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Best Western Hotel Mediterranee Menton — Affordable base with reliable amenities, friendly service, and easy transport connections to Cap Martin.
6. Garavan Beach: Clifftop Paths and Secluded Coves
Turquoise waters crash against rocky outcrops, and pine-scented air drifts from the gardens above. On a quiet afternoon, I spotted locals gathering at a tiny cove just east of the main beach—perfect for a secret swim at the tiny beach. Garavan is a rocky beach, about 300 meters long, best enjoyed in late spring or early autumn.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Walk the scenic Sentier du Littoral coastal path for jaw-dropping views of Monaco and the Italian Riviera—it’s one of the best places for beautiful views in all of the French Riviera. The tiny cove near Villa Maria Serena is a local favorite for picnics. The nearest stop is the Menton train station at Garavan—take the shoreline trail for the full experience.
- Pro: Stunning coastal walks and natural beauty, with easy access from the Menton train station.
- Con: Rocky entry to the sea, so water shoes help.
Best For: Hikers, photographers, and anyone seeking solitude.
Skip If: You want gentle waters for swimming—Rondelli or Les Sablettes are better choices.
Best Hotels near Garavan Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Hôtel De Londres — Intimate luxury property with Mediterranean gardens and direct coastal path access from the Garavan district.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Ibis Styles Menton Centre — Walkable to Garavan Beach with modern amenities and stunning views toward Monaco—great for a day trip from Nice.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Hotel Palm Garavan — Named for its location, this welcoming spot sits just steps from Garavan Beach with espresso coffee and sea-view terrace.
7. Carnolès Beach: Citrus Gardens and Family Seaside Bliss
The fragrance of lemons from the neighboring orchards drifts to the sand, blending with the sound of gentle waves. Watching local families play in the clear water reminded me why this stretch is popular year-round. Carnolès is a sandy beach, about 200 meters long, with shallow waters ideal for kids from June to September.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Visit the Marché de Carnolès for fresh local produce, then follow the Promenade Marcel Pagnol for shady walks beneath the palms—it’s a perfect place for families seeking Menton lemon and Mediterranean flavors. Locals love the tiny, shaded seating area near the market entrance, just behind the promenade in the surrounding Menton area. Carnolès station is steps away—mornings are lively but not hectic.
- Pro: Shallow waters and easy access make it a top pick for families, especially during the Menton Lemon Festival.
- Con: Not as dramatic as other Riviera beaches.
Best For: Families with young children and anyone who wants a hassle-free beach day.
Skip If: You seek wild, untouched nature—Garavan or Plage de Fossan offer richer scenery.
Best Hotels near Carnolès Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Best Western Premier Hotel Prince de Galles — Family-friendly hotel near Carnolès with bike tours, beach access, and spacious family rooms.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Best Western Hotel Mediterranee Menton — Budget-friendly choice with clean rooms and a short walk to Carnolès’ sandy shores and market.
8. Plage de Menton Beach: Central Shoreline Views and Local Flavors
You’ll hear seagulls and chatter as you lounge on this classic pebble beach, right in the Menton town centre and steps from the train station in Menton. I found myself drawn to the tiny bar near the boulevard where locals swap stories over rosé. Plage de Menton is a perfect pebble beach, about 150 meters long, with warm waters by July.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Stroll through the Marché des Halles for fresh bread, local cheese, and other places to eat, then head to Place du Général de Gaulle for a coffee. The tiny bench hidden beneath the palms by the plaza is where old-timers play cards—pack a snack and join in. The beach is steps from the Menton Ville SNCF station, and early mornings are calmest—perfect for those day-tripping from Monaco and Nice.
- Pro: Central, lively, and full of local color, with easy access to the best beach restaurants and cafes.
- Con: Can feel busy, especially during market days or the Menton Lemon Festival.
Best For: Socializers and foodies who want the full Menton experience.
Skip If: You crave uninterrupted tranquility—Agaves or Garavan have more solitude.
Best Hotels near Plage de Menton Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Hôtel De Londres — Premier beachfront address with soundproof elegance right beside the Marché des Halles and train station.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hôtel Riva Art & Spa — Elegant four-star hotel with rooftop terrace and spa, just a few minutes’ walk from Plage de Menton.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Ibis Budget Menton Bord de Mer — Basic, clean 2-star accommodation roughly 10-15 minutes on foot to Plage de Menton, with sea views from some rooms.
FAQ
What budget should you plan for a beach holiday in Menton?
Expect to spend €15–€30 per day on casual meals and local transport, with beach access free except for private clubs, and prices a bit higher in peak summer months.
Which beaches in Menton are best for families with young children?
Les Sablettes Beach and Carnolès Beach offer calm shallow waters, easy access, and nearby amenities for families.
Which beaches are ideal for water sports in Menton?
Plage du Borrigo Beach is best for windsurfing, while Garavan Beach are popular with snorkelers and adventurers.
What is the best time of year to visit Menton’s beaches?
May to September are warmest, with peak crowds in July and August; April and October are quieter and still pleasant for swimming.
How can you easily get around Menton’s beaches?
Town beaches are walkable from the center, while trams and local trains connect Les Garavan, Carnolès, and Borrigo areas quickly and affordably.
What practical tips should visitors know when going to Menton’s beaches?
Bring water shoes for pebble beaches, arrive early for the best spot, and don’t miss the Marché des Halles for fresh snacks—sunshine can be intense, so pack sunscreen and a hat.
