Counting the waves…
Counting the waves…
Plage Macé unfolds along the Boulevard de la Croisette like a stage set for the Côte d'Azur you've imagined: rows of rattan loungers, servers in crisp white, and a parade of joggers and rollerbladers on the palm-lined promenade above. The beach itself is groomed daily, the sand a warm ochre that holds footprints only briefly before the next wave smooths them away. You'll hear the rhythmic clatter of pétanque balls from the courts just behind the beach clubs, punctuated by the high laughter of children building sandcastles near the waterline. The water here deepens gradually, its blue shifting from turquoise shallows to a darker cobalt as you wade out past the swimmers doing their morning laps. Most of the beachfront is divided into private concessions—mattressed loungers cost upward of thirty euros—but strips of public sand bracket either end, where you're free to spread your own towel. The scene changes with the season: May brings the film festival's temporary pavilions and closed-off sections; August packs every square meter with bronzed families; September offers breathing room and warmer water. Behind you, the grand hotels—the Martinez, the Carlton—rise in wedding-cake tiers, their balconies overlooking this choreographed tableau. You can walk the entire beach in fifteen minutes, but the people-watching alone will keep you rooted. Order a salade niçoise from one of the club restaurants, watch yachts glide toward the old port, and understand why this particular stretch of sand has been a status symbol since the 1920s.
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Plage Macé.
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Plage Macé is safe for swimming with lifeguard supervision during the summer season. The beach features a sandy bottom and gradual entry into the water, though the Mediterranean can have moderate waves and currents, so swimmers should respect flag warnings. The central Croisette location means the beach is well-maintained and monitored. Families visit regularly, though the beach can get crowded during peak season and events. Private beach clubs along this stretch provide additional safety oversight and services. Standard Mediterranean precautions apply: supervise children, avoid swimming in rough conditions, and stay hydrated.
Plage Macé is best visited from May through September for swimming, with July and August offering warmest waters but maximum crowds. The beach is particularly busy during the Cannes Film Festival in May and other major events. For a more relaxed experience, visit in June or September when weather remains excellent but visitor numbers drop. Early mornings provide the quietest beach time even in peak season. The central Croisette location means the beach is accessible and pleasant year-round for promenades, though swimming is most comfortable from June to September.
Plage Macé is centrally located on Boulevard de la Croisette, Cannes' famous beachfront promenade, making it easily accessible. From Cannes train station, it's a 15-minute walk or short bus ride (lines 8, 20, or 22). The beach is along the main waterfront, between luxury hotels and easily identified by beach club signage. Paid parking is available in nearby public garages, though spaces can be limited during peak season. Walking along La Croisette from any point in central Cannes is straightforward, and taxis can drop you directly at various beach access points.
Plage Macé is surrounded by La Croisette's luxury and mid-range offerings. Beach clubs along the sand provide restaurant service, sunbed rentals, and refreshments, though at premium prices. The promenade features numerous cafés, restaurants, and hotels ranging from upscale to moderate. Iconic hotels like the Carlton and Majestic are nearby. For budget options, walk inland toward Le Suquet or rue Meynadier where local bistros and bakeries offer better value. Supermarkets are available a few blocks from the beach. The central location provides easy access to Cannes' full range of dining and lodging.
Plage Macé is highly recognizable as one of the central Croisette beaches, positioned in the heart of Cannes' famous waterfront between iconic luxury hotels. During major events like the Film Festival, this beach becomes a focal point with temporary installations and celebrity sightings. The beach combines public access areas with private beach clubs, offering both democratic and exclusive experiences. Its central location makes it ideal for visitors wanting to be in the midst of Cannes' glamorous atmosphere while enjoying quality sandy beach and Mediterranean swimming. It represents the quintessential Cannes beach experience.
