Counting the waves…
Counting the waves…
Plage de la Croisette curves gently west of Sainte-Maxime's harbor, offering you a quieter stretch of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez than the central beaches. The sand here runs fine and gold, sloping so gradually into the turquoise water that toddlers wade out ten meters before the sea reaches their knees. Behind you, a paved promenade shaded by maritime pines connects a string of beach clubs—some with striped cabanas and DJ sets, others simply renting sunbeds and serving salade niçoise on plastic tables. The water stays calm most mornings, protected by the gulf's embrace, warming to bathtub temperatures by July. You'll notice local families arriving early to stake their favorite spots near the public showers, unrolling coolers and popup tents for the day. By noon the beach fills with a mix of French vacationers from the nearby apartment blocks and visitors from the hotels lining Boulevard des Mimosas, but it never feels as dense as Pampelonne across the bay. When the afternoon sun bears down, you can retreat to the shade of the promenade, where ice cream vendors and pizza counters do brisk business. The view across to Saint-Tropez's pastel waterfront never gets old, especially as the light softens and fishing boats putter back to port, their wakes catching the last gold of the day.
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Plage de la Croisette.
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Plage de la Croisette is very family-friendly and generally safe for swimming. The sandy beach features calm, shallow waters typical of Sainte-Maxime's protected bay location. Lifeguards are present during summer months, and the gradual slope makes it easy for children to play safely near the shore. The urban setting means facilities like restrooms, showers, and first aid are readily available. The beach's resort atmosphere ensures good infrastructure and safety standards. As with any beach, supervise children and check daily conditions and flag warnings before entering the water.
Visit in June or September for excellent weather with fewer crowds than the peak July-August period. Summer guarantees optimal sunshine and warm Mediterranean water perfect for swimming and family activities. The beach's position west of Sainte-Maxime's center means it can be slightly less crowded than the main town beaches even in high season. Early mornings offer the quietest experience. Weekdays are generally calmer than weekends. The resort infrastructure operates fully from late spring through early autumn, ensuring complete access to facilities and services.
Plage de la Croisette is located west of Sainte-Maxime's town center along the waterfront promenade. From the center, it's an easy walk of 10-15 minutes along the seafront. By car, follow coastal road signs toward western Sainte-Maxime beaches. Parking is available in nearby lots and along some streets, though spaces can be limited during summer; arriving early morning is advisable. Public buses serve Sainte-Maxime with stops near the beach. Cycling along the coastal path is popular and convenient. The urban location makes access straightforward.
The beach area features several beachfront restaurants and cafes offering Mediterranean cuisine, fresh seafood, and casual dining options. Beach clubs provide meals, drinks, and lounger rentals during summer. Sainte-Maxime's town center, a short walk away, offers extensive dining choices from fine dining to pizzerias. Accommodation includes beachfront hotels, resort properties, and vacation rentals at various price points. The area caters well to families and couples seeking resort amenities. Nearby supermarkets serve self-catering visitors. Reservations are recommended during peak season for both dining and accommodation.
Plage de la Croisette distinguishes itself through its position west of the town center, offering strong family and resort value with slightly more space and a calmer atmosphere than the central beaches. It combines convenient urban access with a more relaxed feel, making it ideal for families seeking amenities without intense crowds. The beach provides good views across the Gulf of Saint-Tropez while maintaining easy access to Sainte-Maxime's restaurants and shops. This balance of accessibility, family-friendly facilities, and relative tranquility makes it particularly useful for resort-based visitors.
