The French coastline has attracted visitors for generations, and for good reason. To the south, the Cote d’Azur is a star-studded destination of luxury yachts and celebrity clientele, while the north is home to chalk cliffs and romantic seaside towns. Across the Mediterranean, the island of Corsica glitters with ancient wonders and turquoise water. Beach hotels in France provide something for everyone.

Beach Hotels in France: Mingle with the stars or discover hidden coves and wind-swept beaches

France © Hôtel Demeure Les Mouettes - La Villa du Golfe

Cote d’Azur: Discover the French Riviera

© Hotel Le Mas de PierreFrom Nice to Marseille, the French Riviera is a destination of unrivaled luxury. 5-star beach hotels overlooking Cannes’ harbor will give you exceptional views of the expensive yachts and cruise ships as they wind in and out of the bay. The town is famous of its promenade which runs the length of the beach, lined with palm trees and quaint cafes. The Cannes Film Festival is held annually in the spring, so if you stay in a beach hotel during this period you might get the chance to glimpse the Hollywood A-listers walking the red carpet. Along with Saint-Tropez, Cannes’ luxurious atmosphere will sweep you off your feet. Further east along the Cote d’Azur is Nice, an equally temping beach destination offering nearly 10km of sand along the baie des Anges. Beach hotels in France’s 400,000-year-old tourist hub offer both a cosmopolitan and relaxed atmosphere, with plenty of museums, art galleries and medieval sites to enjoy when you’ve had your fill of the beach. Discover works of the art by the world’s greats at the Matisse Museum or take the family to the exciting Parc Phoenix which features a zoo and botanical garden.

Majestic Coastlines in Corsica

© Hôtel Le Golfe, Piscine & Spa CasaneraFor an entirely different coastal vacation, head to the picturesque island of Corsica. Rocky and unkempt, this island paradise has everything you need to unwind on the Mediterranean. Beach hotels on France’s largest island are the ideal getaway for families and couples. Protected shallow coves mean little ones can enjoy the water without worry, while the hiking trails in the Calanques de Piana above Ajaccio are perfect for active individuals looking to explore. Corsica is also littered with prehistoric history, with the Roman port of Aléria being one of the most popular examples of the island’s ancient past. The natural landscapes to the south between Porto-Vecchio and Bonifacio are particularly picturesque, and the beaches are second-to-none. White sand and translucent water are characteristic of the area. Some are so beautiful that one might forget they are even still in France. Beach hotels in Corsica are the perfect way to unwind and enjoy this exquisite part of the Mediterranean.

Romantic Escapes in Brittany

© Château de La Ballue - Les CollectionneursWhile the south of France has the French Riviera and Corsica, beach hotels in the north should not be overlooked. Windswept, dramatic coastlines hide a multitude of treasures for those brave enough to find them. Beach hotels in the French department of Brittany are surprisingly tranquil; dotted with medieval villages and seafront fortresses. The La Baule region is where you’ll find long sandy beaches offering a range of activities such as biking and horse-riding. Further north around the peninsula is Roscoff, a town famed for its picturesque architecture and sleepy harbor. Beach hotels in the rugged French resort town of Perros-Guirec are just as charming. The town is at the heart of the Coast of Pink Granite, so there’s a lot to discover along the shore simply by getting out and exploring this diverse northerly coast.