Plage de la Croisette

Plage de la Croisette is one of the most famous beaches in the world — a long arc of golden sand stretching along the Boulevard de la Croisette, the tree-lined seaside promenade that defines Cannes' identity as a city of luxury, cinema, and Mediterranean glamour. The beach gained worldwide recognition as the backdrop to the Cannes Film Festival, held each May since 1946, when it fills with paparazzi, A-list celebrities, and the global press. Outside festival season it's an outstanding beach destination in its own right.

Unlike the pebble beaches of Nice, Cannes features genuine golden sand — softer underfoot and more conducive to beach volleyball, sandcastle building, and relaxed family days. The water is warm from June to October, calm in the sheltered Bay of Cannes, and a clear shade of turquoise in good weather. The beach is divided between free public sections and numerous private concessions run by the grand hotels of the Croisette — the Majestic, Martinez, and Carlton — offering luxury sunbed service, impeccable beach restaurants, and cocktail bars with a front-row view of the Mediterranean.

Beyond the beach, Cannes rewards exploration. Walk west along the Croisette for views of the Lerins Islands, or hire a kayak or boat to explore Sainte-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat — the latter a working monastery producing an exceptional local liqueur. The old quarter of Le Suquet rises above the harbour for wonderful views, while the Marché Forville market supplies the best of Provençal produce from Tuesday to Sunday mornings.