The ultimate beach lifestyle destination on the French Riviera. Fifteen beach clubs in Pampelonne, legendary hotels, Provençal cuisine by the sea, yachting, and the village that invented the modern Mediterranean summer.
Saint-Tropez cannot be explained. It must be felt. There is something about the contrast between the 16th-century fishing village that still exists in the historic center—the cafes of Place des Lices, the fishermen in the port at six in the morning, the baroque church above the orange rooftops—and the completely different world that surrounds it in July and August, that makes Saint-Tropez a destination without a real equivalent in the Mediterranean.
Not arriving by plane, not having its own airport, not being easily accessible: all of this contributes to Saint-Tropez's mystique. Travelers who come here have had to want to come. And that's what makes the difference. The Saint-Tropez crowd—in the beach clubs of Pampelonne, on the sailboats in the port, in the restaurants of the historic center—has a level of intention that few Mediterranean destinations can match.
The Riviera has many destinations. Saint-Tropez is the one that invented the concept. La Plage de Pampelonne, Brigitte Bardot, the first beach clubs of the 1950s, the idea that the Mediterranean summer could be more than just mass tourism: it all started here.
The port of Saint-Tropez at sunset — the most iconic image of the French Riviera
“Saint-Tropez is the only town on the French Riviera where you can have pastis for breakfast with fishermen, lunch of Provençal sea bream at a beach club where the price is 200 euros per person, and dinner with strangers who become friends. The most democratic luxury in the Mediterranean.”
Editorial Team Sandbeds
Saint-Tropez has no commercial airport. Access is only by car (80 km from Nice, 1 hour 30 minutes under normal conditions—longer in August) or by boat. Plan ahead: traffic on the single access road in August can exceed 3 hours. A helicopter from Nice (25 minutes, from €400 per person) is the premium option.
Saint-Tropez is small —the historic center can be explored on foot in twenty minutes— but the area where you stay completely determines whether your experience will be that of an authentic Provençal village, luxury facing the port, or pure beach lifestyle in Pampelonne.
The original village. Place des Lices—with its Tuesday and Saturday market and the best pétanque court on the Riviera—Sénéquier, the port with its historic sailing ships, and the Baroque old town. Here lies the authentic magic of Saint-Tropez. A must-see even if you're not staying here.
💴 €300–1.500/night · Cheval Blanc, Byblos, Lou Pinet · Couples, first visit
Located 5 km from the village, Ramatuelle is the municipality surrounding Pampelonne beach. The hotels in the area—Messardière, Lou Pinet Beach, Lily of the Valley—have more direct access to the beach clubs. The choice if the beach lifestyle is your absolute priority.
💴 €400–2.000/night · Messardière, Lou Pinet · Beach clubs, tranquility, nature
Across the gulf, a 25-minute boat ride from Saint-Tropez. Significantly more reasonable prices, easy access to the village by ferry, and a quieter atmosphere. The smart choice for those visiting Saint-Tropez for a few days from a more accessible base.
💴 €150–400/night · Families, balanced budget
Medieval villages overlooking the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. The most private and exclusive villas in the area: Mediterranean pines, panoramic views of the gulf, and the feeling that the world is far away even though Pampelonne is just ten minutes away. For those seeking absolute privacy with access to everything.
Villas from €5.000/week · Gassin Golf Course · Ultra exclusive
The hotels of Saint-Tropez are in a class of their own: they're not Belle Époque palaces like those in Cannes, nor resorts on the Croisette. They are properties with character—some converted from old Provençal farmhouses, others built from scratch with a contemporary luxury ethos—whose best selling point isn't the name but the feeling that the destination works even if you never leave the hotel.
Cheval Blanc Saint-Tropez
The most sophisticated hotel in Saint-Tropez and one of the best in France. Facing the marina, it boasts the Cheval Blanc Spa—the best in town—the La Vague d'Or restaurant (3 Michelin stars, separate reservations required), a waterfront pool, and an interior design that makes all other options seem outdated.
Byblos Hotel
The most legendary hotel in Saint-Tropez since 1967. A blend of kitsch and luxury, it boasts the most famous swimming pool in town and is just 5 km away in Ramatuelle, near Byblos Beach. It was the hotel of Mick Jagger, Brigitte Bardot, and all those who helped define Saint-Tropez as a myth. And it still is.
Castle Messardière
A 19th-century Provençal château transformed into a luxury hotel with panoramic views of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. Swimming pools nestled among Mediterranean pines, a renowned spa, private access to Pampelonne, and an ambiance that recalls why the Riviera had such a reputation before the arrival of mass tourism.
Lily of the valley
The most wellness-oriented hotel in the Saint-Tropez area. Top-notch sports facilities, the Lily of the Valley spa, swimming pools nestled amidst Mediterranean vegetation, and an active luxury philosophy make it the ideal choice for those who combine beach lifestyle with well-being.
Hotel de Paris Saint-Tropez
The most social hotel in Saint-Tropez after the Byblos. Rooftop Les Toits offers panoramic views of the port and the gulf, a prime waterfront location, and a lifestyle concept that makes it a favorite among groups and those who want to be at the heart of it all.
The Beauvallon
Across the gulf, in Beauvallon. Access to the village by ferry (25 min), significantly cheaper than Saint-Tropez, and a resort with a spa, golf course, swimming pools, and private beach. The smartest choice economically without sacrificing quality.
| Hotel | Area | Price | Better for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cheval blanc | Port | $$$$ | The best, period. |
| Byblos Hotel | Pueblo | $$$$ | History, legend, social lifestyle |
| Messardière | Colinas | $$$$ | Couples, romance, views, spa |
| Lily of the valley | La croix-valmer | $$$$ | Wellness, active retirement |
| Hotel de Paris | Port | $$$$ | Groups, social, rooftop |
| The Beauvallon | Sainte-Maxime | $ $ $ | Families, smart pricing |
Pampelonne is not a beach. It's a state of mind. Four kilometers of fine sand and turquoise water south of Saint-Tropez where, since 1956 when Brigitte Bardot made topless sunbathing famous here, the most iconic beach lifestyle in the Mediterranean has been developing.
La Plage de Pampelonne now boasts fifteen active beach clubs, ranging from the legendary Le Club 55—which has remained unchanged for over seventy years because it never needed updating—to contemporary luxury establishments designed as editorial experiences. They all share the same turquoise sea. What sets them apart is their character.
The northern part of Pampelonne is closest to the town of Saint-Tropez and has the most varied atmosphere. Tahiti Beach—the first to open—and Moorea are classics in this area, offering more affordable options and a less intense atmosphere than the center of Pampelonne.
The heart of Pampelonne. Club 55 is legendary: no DJ, no show, just the best Provençal sea bream with boulangère potatoes and the finest rosé on the French Riviera. Nikki Beach opposite: the complete opposite in atmosphere, equally iconic in its own way.
The newest and most premium area. Shellona —with its uncompromising design and editorial-style menu— and Byblos Beach —the extension of the most legendary hotel— define the new generation beach club concept in Pampelonne.
There are three options: 1) Car from Saint-Tropez (5 km, paid parking in summer €25/day). 2) Bike or scooter from the village (the route through Ramatuelle is spectacular). 3) By boat, anchoring and arriving by tender at the beach club — the most special way and the only one that allows you to understand what Pampelonne means from the sea.
No guide to Saint-Tropez is worthwhile if it doesn't cover Pampelonne. These are the fifteen beach clubs active in 2026—all listed in DB with individual entries in Sandbeds— with our honest opinion on each one and the comparison chart to help you choose.
Club 55 for the most authentic Provençal cuisine Shellona for the most contemporary design and atmosphere · Nikki Beach for the daytime party Byblos Beach for unpretentious luxury LouLou for the most festive sunset.
Club 55
1955. The first season. Brigitte Bardot as a regular. Seventy years later, Le Club 55 remains exactly the same: no DJ, no show, no fuss. The best boulangère potatoes in the world, Provençal sea bream, and the coldest rosé in Pampelonne.
Shellona St. Tropez
Pampelonne's next-generation beach club. Uncompromising design, a menu that blends Mediterranean cuisine with global influences, designer sunbeds, and an atmosphere that has modernized what a beach club in Saint-Tropez means without losing its beach spirit.
Nikki Beach St.Tropez
The modern counterpoint to Club 55. Everything Club 55 lacks: a DJ, a party atmosphere, eye-catching cocktails, and a well-informed international crowd. Sundays in August are a spectacle in themselves. Probably the most photographed spot of the new generation in Pampelonne.
Byblos Beach Ramatuelle
The extension of the Byblos hotel in Pampelonne. The same bohemian and laid-back spirit of the hotel, brought to the beach: unpretentious, with an energy reminiscent of Saint-Tropez in the seventies. The menu combines Provençal classics with contemporary dishes.
Tahiti beach
The first to open in Pampelonne, even before Club 55. A pioneer that has remained true to its identity without succumbing to trends. A more relaxed atmosphere than those in the city center, honest Provençal cuisine, and the same sea.
Lou lou ramatuelle
The most festive beach club in Pampelonne, starting at four in the afternoon. The transition from lunch to cocktails and from cocktails to evening happens naturally here. The atmosphere gradually builds, becoming one of the best afternoon gatherings on the French Mediterranean.
Indie Beach St. Tropez
Pampelonne's latest addition and editorial concept. A beach club with a lifestyle magazine ethos: design, curated music, and a short, well-executed menu. A favorite among a creative crowd seeking something different from the mainstream scene.
Tropezina Garden
The most verdant beach club in Pampelonne. A Mediterranean garden acts as a transition between the sand and the restaurant, with a gastronomic offering that focuses on seasonal produce and Provençal market cuisine.
Bagatelle St.Tropez
The beachside sibling of Bagatelle restaurants in New York and Paris. Same DNA: festive, international, with an energy that on Sundays in August transforms Pampelonne into something akin to a massive, private party.
Other active beach clubs in Pampelonne in 2026: Green Beach · CAP 21 Les Murènes · Moorea · Les Palmiers · Tropicana La Plage · L'Orangerie
| Beach Club | Gastro | Environment | Better for | Book |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Club 55 | ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ | ★★★ | Provençal gastronomy, authenticity | Weeks before |
| Shellona | ★ ★ ★ ★ | ★ ★ ★ ★ | Contemporary design, couples | 1–2 weeks |
| Nikki Beach | ★★★ | ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ | Daytime party, Sundays | 1–2 weeks |
| Byblos Beach | ★ ★ ★ ★ | ★ ★ ★ ★ | Legend, bohemian spirit | 1 week |
| Tahiti | ★ ★ ★ ★ | ★★★ | Tranquility, pioneer | 48 hrs |
| LouLou | ★★★ | ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ | Festive afternoon and sunset | 1 week |
| Indie Beach | ★ ★ ★ ★ | ★ ★ ★ ★ | Editorial, new, different | 48 hrs |
| Tropezina Garden | ★ ★ ★ ★ | ★★★ | Natural, chill, vegetation | 48 hrs |
| Bagatelle | ★★★ | ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ | Party, international, Sundays | 1–2 weeks |
Saint-Tropez has its own rhythm. It's not the rhythm of Cannes or Ibiza. It's the Provençal rhythm: slow until it isn't. Mornings for the market and coffee, midday for Pampelonne, afternoons for pastis at the port, and evenings for whatever comes up. This is the plan we would follow.
Place des Lices café and market
The Tuesday and Saturday market is one of the most authentic experiences in Saint-Tropez: flowers from Provence, strawberries from Ramatuelle, homemade tapenade, local cheeses. The café in the square, the fishermen with their morning pastis, the hot dogs of the vacationers. The town before the tourists arrive.
Road to Pampelonne
By bike along Ramatuelle—the most beautiful route—or by scooter. Driving in August isn't worth it: parking costs €25 and there's a queue. By boat, if you have access: the best option.
Beach Club in Pampelonne
Shellona if you want the most contemporary design. Club 55 if you want authenticity. Nikki Beach if daytime partying is the priority. Hammock, sun, the Mediterranean and the Maures Islands in the background.
Provençal lunch in Pampelonne
At Club 55: boulangère potatoes with Provençal sea bream and a chilled bottle of Bandol rosé. It's probably the most iconic lunch on the French Riviera. Don't even try to improve on it.
Afternoon drinks at LouLou or Bagatelle
The afternoon in Pampelonne has a life of its own. LouLou and Bagatelle raise the energy level from four o'clock onwards. If you prefer relaxation, Shellona or Jardin Tropezina offer a tranquil counterpoint.
Pastis in Sénéquier & a stroll around the port
Sénéquier, the port's red café since 1887. A pastis or a rosé while the sailboats return to the harbor and the sun sets over the village's orange rooftops. The most cinematic moment in Saint-Tropez.
Price
La Vague d'Or (3 Michelin stars, Cheval Blanc) if your budget is unlimited. Club 55 at night if you want a Provençal conversation. La Place des Artisans in the historic center if you prefer authentic Tropez with a chalkboard menu and tables on the street.
Night: Byblos or Les Caves du Roy
Les Caves du Roy—the nightclub at the Byblos Hotel—is one of the most iconic clubs on the French Riviera. The rooftop of the Hôtel de Paris offers a more relaxed alternative. Saint-Tropez doesn't have the electronic rhythm of Ibiza: it has its own nightlife language, more social than musical.
The biggest mistake in Saint-Tropez is trying to see everything at once. The town rewards slowness and repetition: the same places, the same tables, the same waiters who recognize you the second time around. Go back to the same beach club two days in a row, and by the third day, you'll be part of the scenery.
The gastronomy of Saint-Tropez is a world apart on the French Riviera. It's not the haute cuisine of Cannes' palaces nor the fusion cuisine of Ibiza: it's Provençal tradition—rockfish, Bandol rosé, garrigue herbs, local domaine tapenade—elevated by chefs who understand that the best ingredients don't need much intervention.
Provençal cuisine in Pampelonne — lunch in Saint-Tropez
The most important restaurant in Saint-Tropez and one of the greats in France. Three Michelin stars since 2013. Chef Arnaud Donckele. A cuisine that draws on Provençal tradition to create something entirely contemporary: garrigue herbs, fish from the bay, and local olive oil as the narrative thread.
The reservation is separate from the hotel and must be made months in advance. The lunch menu is the most affordable option (relatively speaking) for accessing the full experience.
La Vague d'Or accepts online bookings 60–90 days in advance. For July and August dates, booking on the day the calendar opens is practically mandatory.
Club 55
Seventy years of boulangère potatoes. Pampelonne's most iconic lunch. No online reservations: only by phone, weeks in advance in July and August. The only restaurant on the French Riviera where the wait is part of the experience.
Sénéquier & La Tarte Tropezienne
Sénéquier: the port café since 1887. For pastis, croissants, or coffee with a view of the sailboats. La Tarte Tropezienne: the village pastry chef, inventor of the Tropezienne and the best Provençal pastry in the area.
The Place des Artisans
The most authentic gastronomic spot in the historic center. Tables on the street, a chalkboard menu, market-fresh produce, and the mixed clientele that makes Saint-Tropez what it is: fishermen, millionaires, artists, and tourists sitting at adjacent tables.
Shellona & Nikki Beach
Shellona leads the way in contemporary cuisine in Pampelonne; Nikki Beach in ambiance. Both are the best for a beach club lunch with a gastronomic standard that surpasses the average beach experience.
Domaine de la Croix & Minuty
The two Provençal wineries most closely associated with Saint-Tropez. Minuty is the rosé served in most of the beach clubs in Pampelonne. Domaine de la Croix has a tasting terrace right on the estate. The most unique gastronomic excursion in the region.
Sénéquier Rooftop & Rooftop Le Paris
Sénéquier Rooftop has the best views of the port at sunset. Les Toits—the rooftop of the Hôtel de Paris Saint-Tropez—has the most comprehensive panorama of the gulf. These are the two best moments of the afternoon in the village.
Saint-Tropez from the sea is a radically different experience than that of the visitor arriving by car via the N-98. From the water, Pampelonne becomes what it was before the beach clubs: four kilometers of sand and pine trees without a visible building, with the turquoise water of the gulf in the foreground and the Maures hills in the background.
The Gulf of Saint-Tropez is one of the most spectacular anchorages in the Mediterranean. Sainte-Maxime to the north, Saint-Tropez to the south, Pampelonne to the east, and several kilometers of undeveloped coastline in between. Sailing the gulf in a day—anchoring off Pampelonne in the morning, having lunch at Club 55 after arriving by tender, and spending the afternoon in the port of Saint-Tropez—is the ultimate French Riviera plan.
The Vieux-Port of Saint-Tropez is one of the world's most famous ports and one of the most competitive in July and August. It has a capacity for around 600 vessels, with the most prestigious berths reserved from winter onwards for the season's superyachts.
For visiting boats, the free anchorage in front of the town walls—La Ponche, the old beach—is the option when no moorings are available. From there, the tender to the port's landing takes 5 minutes.
The best anchorage in the entire Saint-Tropez area is located off the central Pampelonne beach, between the Shellona and Club 55 beach clubs. The water is 4–6 meters deep, the bottom is sandy, and the anchorage is excellent. You can reach any beach club by tender in less than 3 minutes.
The port of Saint-Tropez — superyachts, sailboats and the nautical soul of the Riviera
Almost all the beach clubs in Pampelonne welcome customers arriving by tender from the anchorage. Club 55, Shellona, and Nikki Beach have designated tender mooring areas during the day. The procedure: anchor 100–200 meters from the beach, lower your tender, and request a sunbed or table. Always book in advance by phone, indicating that you are arriving by boat.
4–5 hours — The classic route
Cannes → Cap d'Antibes → Golfo Juan → Les Issambres → Saint-Tropez. The most complete route along the French Riviera in one day.
25 minutes — Crossing the Gulf
The most convenient regular ferry route if you're staying in Beauvallon or Sainte-Maxime. Departures every hour during peak season.
The final plan
Charter from Saint-Tropez or Sainte-Maxime. Morning in Pampelonne by sea, afternoon sailing the gulf. From €400/day for small groups.
Saint-Tropez doesn't have the grand hotel rooftops of Cannes or Marbella. It has something better: village terraces perched on orange rooftops overlooking the gulf, with views that no designer rooftop can replicate because the setting is irreplaceable.
Les Toits Lounge — Hôtel de Paris
The best panoramic views over the town and the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. Signature cocktails, a social atmosphere, and the most spectacular sunset around. The perfect spot from 18:00 PM to 22:00 PM, with no real alternative in the town center.
The rooftop of Saint-Tropez's most legendary hotel. A terrace overlooking the Byblos gardens, a social atmosphere frequented by hotel guests, and cocktails steeped in the hotel's history. More intimate than Les Toits, more legendary.
The rooftop terrace of Saint-Tropez's most iconic café. It's not a hotel rooftop: it's the Sénéquier terrace, perched above the harbor promenade. Directly facing the sailboats, with the authentic village atmosphere and considerably more reasonable prices.
The most intimate of the four. A boutique rooftop bar in a small hotel in the historic center, overlooking the town, with a more curated cocktail menu than its larger competitors. The best-kept secret of the Saint-Tropez skyline.
Over the past ten years, Saint-Tropez has developed a wellness offering that complements its beach lifestyle identity with top-tier recovery and wellness options. The best spas are located in luxury hotels and are accessible to non-residents with prior reservation.
The most exclusive spa in Saint-Tropez, in the finest hotel. Provençal wellness rituals, an indoor pool, facials with products from Provence, and an atmosphere that makes recovery after a day at Pampelonne an experience in itself.
The spa of Saint-Tropez's most legendary hotel, operated under the Sisley brand. Facial and body treatments featuring French cosmetics, an indoor pool, and the unmistakable character of Byblos that permeates every space. The most glamorous of the selection.
A spa in the hills above Pampelonne, in the château with the best views of the gulf. Provençal treatments with local ingredients, pools nestled among Mediterranean pines, and the tranquility that only a hotel away from the noise of the town can offer. The most peaceful of the selection.
The area's most active wellness-oriented spa. Top-notch sports facilities, longevity programs, active recovery, and comprehensive wellness treatments at a hotel that has made wellness its core offering. The most complete in terms of facilities.
Only experiences that embody the spirit of Saint-Tropez: natural, authentic, or genuinely memorable. Nothing that can't be done better here than anywhere else on the French Riviera.
Sailboat to Pampelonne
The ultimate plan. Arrive at Club 55 by boat. From €400/day.
Pétanque at Place des Lices
Free. The most authentic Saint-Tropez experience. Saturdays and Tuesdays (market).
Annonciade Museum
The best collection of Fauvist and Post-Impressionist art on the French Riviera. 2 hours.
Tasting at Minuty or Dom. de la Croix
Rosé de Provence at its source. The ultimate gastronomic excursion.
Helicopter from Nice
25 min. The most spectacular way to arrive. From €400/person.
Bike through Ramatuelle
The vineyard route to Pampelonne. The most beautiful in the area.
Spa Day Cheval Blanc
The best spa in Saint-Tropez. Day pass available with prior booking.
Place des Lices Market
Tuesdays and Saturdays. The gastronomic and social heart of the Provençal village.
Saint-Tropez has a more compressed tourist season than Cannes or Marbella. The bulk of the year is concentrated between June and September, with an absolutely exceptional peak in July and August. Outside of peak season, many beach clubs and restaurants close.
16–22°C · Sea 17°C
Opening for the season. Tramontana wind possible. Some beach clubs still closed. Ideal for seeing the town without the crowds.
23–27°C · Sea 20°C
All beach clubs are open. Without the crowds of August. The best month for a first visit.
28–32°C · Sea 23°C
Peak activity. Superyachts in the harbor, packed beach clubs, queues at the entrance. Book everything 3–4 weeks in advance.
30–35°C · Sea 25°C
The most intense and the most expensive. Hotel prices at their peak. The city at full capacity. Only for those seeking the social scene at its height.
26–30°C · Sea 24°C
A favorite among repeat visitors. Perfect sea temperature, open beach clubs, and falling prices. The best combination of quality and tranquility.
20–25°C · Sea 22°C
Season's over. Most beach clubs are closing. The town returns to its Provençal rhythm. Ideal for cultural and gastronomic visits.
Real itineraries of the editorial team of SandbedsDesigned for specific profiles, not for the generic traveler.
48 Hours in Saint-Tropez
Saturday morning
Arrival. Place des Lices market (if it's Saturday). Café in Sénéquier facing the port.
Saturday afternoon
Pampelonne: Le Club 55 or Shellona. Provençal lunch. Afternoon at LouLou. Sunset in Port.
Saturday night
Dinner at Cheval Blanc or in the historic center. Drink at Les Caves du Roy.
Sunday
Nikki Beach or Byblos Beach. Lunch and a leisurely return. Leave by 16 pm before the traffic starts.
The Provençal Week
Day 1
Arrival, check-in at Cheval Blanc or Byblos. Walk around and exploration of the port.
Day 2
Le Club 55 sailing trip (morning charter). Lunch on board or at the beach club. Sunset at Sénéquier.
Day 3
Shellona. Afternoon drinks at LouLou. Evening: Les Caves du Roy.
Day 4
Spa at Cheval Blanc in the morning. Wine tasting at Minuty or Dom. de la Croix in the afternoon. Dinner: La Vague d'Or.
Day 5
Nikki Beach. Les Lices Market (if it's Tuesday or Saturday). Return.
Saint-Tropez as a Couple
Hotel
Cheval Blanc or Château de la Messardière. The most romantic in the area.
Plan
Sailing trip to Pampelonne · Day trip to Shellona · Cheval Blanc Spa · Dinner at La Vague d'Or · Evening stroll through the historic center.
Unique moment
Private dinner on the deck of a sailboat facing Pampelonne at sunset. Please consult with the Concierge.
Saint-Tropez with Friends
Base
Private villa in Gassin or Ramatuelle. With pool and views of the gulf. 6–12 people.
Plan
Nikki Beach · Bagatelle Sundays · Day Charter · Night Les Caves du Roy · Les Lices Market on Saturday.
The Superyacht Route
Base
Port of Saint-Tropez or anchorage in front of Pampelonne.
Day 1
Tomorrow in Pampelonne (anchorage + tender to Club 55). Afternoon: Gulf of Saint-Tropez.
Day 2
Porquerolles (30 miles). The most beautiful island on the French Riviera, National Park.
Day 3
I return sailing via Hyères and Les Issambres. The complete route of the Provençal Var.
Saint-Tropez with the Family
Base
Le Beauvallon (facing the gulf, quieter and more family-friendly than the town).
Plan
Tahiti Beach or Jardin Tropezina · Ferry to the village · Market · Musée de l'Annonciade · Pétanque at Les Lices. The most authentic Tropez, without the noise of the busy August season.
Club 55
★ 70 years of history in Pampelonne
★ The most iconic boulangère potatoes
★ No DJ — pure Provençal authenticity
★ The legend that doesn't need updating
Shellona
★ Pampelonne's most contemporary design
★ Editorial letter with global influences
★ Younger and more visual atmosphere
★ Define the future of beach clubs in St-Tropez
Cheval blanc
★ The best hotel technically
★ La Vague d'Or (3* Michelin)
★ The most exclusive spa
★ The most contemporary luxury
Byblos Hotel
★ The richest history since 1967
★ Saint-Tropez's most famous swimming pool
★ Les Caves du Roy (the most iconic club)
★ The hotel that made Saint-Tropez famous
| Criterion | Saint Tropez | Cannes | Marbella |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beach clubs on a natural beach | ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ | ★ ★ ★ ★ | ★ ★ ★ ★ |
| Accessibility | Difficult (without a plane) | Easy (Nice + 30 min) | Easy (Malaga + 60 min) |
| Provençal authenticity | ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ | ★ ★ ★ ★ | ★★ |
| Yachting | ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ | ★ ★ ★ ★ | ★ ★ ★ ★ |
| Michelin-starred cuisine | La Vague d'Or (3★) | The Palme d'Or (2★) | Skina (1★) |
| Golf | ★★ | ★★ | ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ |
| Price | The most expensive in August | Expensive at the Festival | more affordable |
| Personality | Bohemian Provençal | French Glamour | Sun and premium party |
The legend
Club 55
70 years. Boulangère potatoes. Bardot. Unrepeatable.
Best Hotel
Cheval blanc
The best hotel in Saint-Tropez. Period.
Best Restaurant
The Golden Wave
3 Michelin stars. The best on the French Riviera.
Best Design
Shellona
Pampelonne's most contemporary beach club
Better Sunset
Senéquier Port
Pastis and sailboats. The most iconic sunset on the French Riviera.
Best Spa
Cheval Blanc Spa
The most exclusive spa in town
Better Experience
Sailboat to Club 55
Arrive by boat at the most iconic beach club in the Mediterranean
Best Rooftop
Les Toits — Hôtel de Paris
The best panoramic views over the gulf
How to get to Saint-Tropez?
Saint-Tropez does not have a commercial airport. The options are: car from Nice (80 km, 1 hour 30 minutes under normal conditions, 3+ hours in August) or Marseille (120 km); helicopter from Nice (25 minutes, from €400/person, the premium option); boat from Sainte-Maxime or Cannes; or a private transfer from Nice. In August, the helicopter or boat is the best choice to avoid the congestion on the N-98.
What is the best month to visit Saint-Tropez?
September is the real answer. The sea is 24°C, the beach clubs are still open, hotel prices drop by 30–40%, and road access is no longer an issue. June is the perfect alternative if you want peak season without the crowds of August. July and August are for those who want the social scene at its peak and can afford the prices and queues.
Is Saint-Tropez expensive?
Yes, especially in July and August. Hotel Byblos in August: €800–€1.500/night. Cheval Blanc: €1.200–€3.000. Lunch at Club 55 with wine: €150–€250 per person. Day pass to the beach club: €80–€150. Outside of peak season (June, September), prices are considerably more reasonable. A rental villa can be more cost-effective than a hotel for groups.
Is Saint-Tropez better than Ibiza?
These are radically different destinations that are almost incomparable. Ibiza boasts the global electronic music scene and the most spectacular beach clubs in terms of production. Saint-Tropez offers Provençal authenticity, Michelin-starred cuisine, world-class yachting, and Pampelonne. If music and the nightclub lifestyle are your priority: Ibiza. If you prefer relaxed luxury, fine dining, and sailing: Saint-Tropez.
Why doesn't Saint-Tropez have an airport?
The Saint-Tropez peninsula is surrounded by the gulf and the protected nature reserve of the Var region. The nearest airport is Toulon-Hyères (60 km), with few international flights. Nice is the usual gateway. This difficulty of access is part of the myth: Saint-Tropez filters out those who arrive for mere mass tourism. A perfect paradox.
What is the Plage de Pampelonne?
Pampelonne is a 4-kilometer stretch of fine sand beach south of Saint-Tropez, in the municipality of Ramatuelle. It's the beach that made topless sunbathing famous in the 50s (thanks to Brigitte Bardot) and is home to the 15 beach clubs that define the Saint-Tropez beach lifestyle. The beach itself is public; the beach clubs are private concessions on the sand.
Do we need to make a reservation at Club 55?
Yes, absolutely. Club 55 doesn't accept online reservations: only by phone. In July and August, tables sell out 3–4 weeks in advance. Reservations can be made between 9:00 and 11:00. They will call you directly to confirm. If you can't get a table, the bar accepts walk-ins, but expect an unpredictable wait.
What is the best beach club in Saint-Tropez?
For authentic Provençal cuisine: Le Club 55, hands down. For contemporary design and ambiance: Shellona. For daytime parties: Nikki Beach or Bagatelle. For the bohemian spirit of historic Saint-Tropez: Byblos Beach. The answer depends on what you're looking for, not on an absolute ranking.
How much does it cost to eat at Club 55?
Between €120 and €220 per person, including wine. The famous boulangère potatoes and Provençal sea bream cost between €35 and €50 each. Rosé wines start at €60 a bottle. The final bill for two, including a bottle of wine and dessert, is usually between €300 and €400. Expensive, yes. Justified by the experience, also.
Is it possible to get to Pampelonne by boat?
Yes, it's the best way. You anchor off the central area of the beach (4–6 meters deep, sandy bottom) and can reach the beach clubs by tender in less than 5 minutes. Club 55, Shellona, and Nikki Beach have tender mooring areas available during the day. Always call the beach club in advance to confirm.
How to get to Pampelonne from the village?
5 km from the center. In August: bike (the best option, vineyard route through Ramatuelle, 20 min), scooter (convenient and easy parking) or car (paid parking €20–30/day, queues in August). The summer bus (Varlib line) connects the village with Pampelonne every 20 minutes during peak season.
Which is the best hotel in Saint-Tropez?
Cheval Blanc is the best hotel in terms of technical aspects: La Vague d'Or (3 Michelin stars), the best spa, and the best contemporary architecture. Hôtel Byblos is the best in terms of character and history. For couples seeking romance and views: Château de la Messardière. For wellness: Lily of the Valley. There isn't just one best hotel: there's the best for every type of traveler.
Is it worth renting a villa in Saint-Tropez?
For groups of six or more people and stays of five or more days, a villa is clearly the smarter option. Villas in Gassin and Ramatuelle—with infinity pools and gulf views—cost between €5.000 and €30.000 per week for eight to twelve people. Compared to six bedrooms at the Byblos, the savings are substantial, and the experience is superior in terms of privacy.
Can I stay in Sainte-Maxime and visit Saint-Tropez?
Yes, absolutely. Ferries run every hour during peak season (25 minutes, €15 round trip). Hotels in Sainte-Maxime and Beauvallon are 30-50% cheaper than their counterparts in Saint-Tropez. It's the smartest option for families or those visiting Saint-Tropez as part of a longer trip along the French Riviera.
How many days are enough for Saint-Tropez?
4-5 days allow you to see the essentials at a leisurely pace: 2 days at the beach club in Pampelonne, 1 afternoon in the village (market, Sénéquier, historic center), 1 boat trip or wine tasting and 1 dinner at La Vague d'Or or Club 55. To add Porquerolles, a sailing trip around the gulf or a spa day, 7 days is ideal.
Is Saint-Tropez safe?
Yes. Saint-Tropez has high safety ratings. The historic village and the port are well-patrolled. As with any high-end tourist destination during peak season, you should exercise the usual caution with valuables in beach clubs and the port. The Pampelonne area is completely safe.
What is the Tramontana?
The Tramontana is a northerly wind that affects the French Riviera and the Var region, most frequent in spring (April–May) and autumn. It can blow strongly for 1–3 days, making the gulf choppy, hindering navigation, and turning Pampelonne into an uncomfortable beach. In June, July, and August, its presence is very low. For yachting, always check the 48-hour meteorological forecast.
How much does a charter flight cost in Saint-Tropez?
Sailboat or jet ski (8–10 meters) with skipper: from €300/day for 6–8 people. Motor yachts 12–15 meters: €800–€2.000/day. Superyachts 25+ meters: from €5.000/day including crew. Half-day catamaran excursion to Porquerolles from €400 for small groups.
What is Tarte Tropezienne?
The Tarte Tropezienne is a brioche sponge cake filled with custard and cream, invented in 1955 by Polish pastry chef Alexandre Micka in Saint-Tropez. Brigitte Bardot—who worked nearby—gave it its name during the filming of "Et Dieu… créa la femme" (And God Created Woman). Today, the brand has shops all over the French Riviera. The original shop remains in the village of Saint-Tropez.
What is pastis?
Pastis is the quintessential Provençal anise-flavored drink: an anise and licorice liqueur mixed with cold water in a 1:5 ratio and served over ice. It's the social drink of Saint-Tropez—the fishermen in the port, the Sénéquier, the Place des Lices—and one of the cultural touchstones of Provence. Ricard and Pernod are the leading brands.
There are destinations that luxury has rendered sterile. Saint-Tropez has survived them all because it has something that money can't buy: a town that exists before and after the season, a beach that was beautiful before the arrival of beach clubs, and a way of understanding the Mediterranean summer that Brigitte Bardot captured on film before the concept of lifestyle even existed.
As Sandbeds What we do with this guide is what we always do: not tell you everything, but tell you what's worthwhile. The right beach club for your style, the hotel that justifies the price, the experience that will make you remember the trip ten years later.
We update this guide every season because Saint-Tropez changes: a new beach club opens, a hotel is renovated, a restaurant's reputation grows. What doesn't change is the essence: pastis at Sénéquier, boulangère potatoes at Club 55, and the sunset over the port. That's seventy years old and will be for another seventy.
Saint-Tropez 2026 — the village that invented the modern Mediterranean summer
Reservations at Club 55, Shellona, and the beach clubs of Pampelonne. Hotels and villas in Saint-Tropez. Sailboat or yacht charters for the Gulf and Porquerolles. Transfers from Nice. Helicopter. Tables at La Vague d'Or. All managed from a single point of contact.
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