The south of France is one of Europe’s most diverse vacation destinations, encompassing the medieval cities of Avignon and Carcassonne, national parks, the French Riviera and the souring Pyrenees. While there is plenty to discover south of ‘le Midi,’ beach hotels in the south of France are particularly tempting, providing luxurious retreats with 5 star views over the glittering ocean. Access some of France’s most exclusive destinations with beach hotels on the south coast.

Beach Hotels in the South of France: Romantic & exclusive destinations on the French coast

Cannes & St. Tropez: Luxury on the Côte d’Azur

Characterized by cascading cliffs, golden beaches and harbors filled with luxury yachts, the French Riviera is home to some of the most spectacular scenery in Europe. Spanning from the Italian border, through Monaco and on to Marseille, the French Riviera (Côte d’Azur) is arguably the most exclusive spot for a beach hotel in the south of France. Located south of Nice, Cannes captivates with stunning blue water, a reliable Mediterranean climate and exclusive atmosphere. Famed for its annual Film Festival, Cannes attracts the European elite with its abundance of iconic 5 star & boutique hotels, exclusive Michelin-starred restaurants and designer stores which line the coastal Boulevard de la Croisette. Find the handprints of your favorite Hollywood movie star along the Allée des Étoiles, and take a boat excursion to explore the lush flora and fauna and fortresses of the Lérins Islands. Travel east along the coast past pretty resort towns and gorgeous beach hotels and you’ll eventually hit the ritzy town of Saint-Tropez. If the French Riviera’s most extravagant jetsetters aren’t in Cannes, you’ll find them here. The millionaire yachts bobbing in the Vieux Port are juxtaposed against the pastel facades of its buildings and 17th century hilltop citadel. The town has been a hangout for fashionistas, artists and movie stars since the 1920s. Beach hotels along the French Riviera add a touch of exclusivity that you won’t find anywhere else.

Nice: The Glamorous Capital of the French Riviera

The Côte d’Azur’s capital and largest city, Nice is a wonderland for couples looking for romantic break and families seeking the dream vacation with a beach hotel in the south of France. Nice is a glamorous beachside city packed with Baroque architecture and a web of winding alleyways and quaint streets. No matter where you’re staying, the beach won’t be far away. All along the Bay of Angels you’ll find a variety of inlets and coves only a short distance from the city center. Head to the pebbled paradise of Beaulieu-Sur-Mer to relax and swim, or seek the sandy shores of Villefranche or the more exclusive Cap d’Ail. To enjoy French cuisine with an ocean view, choose from a multitude of eateries along the seven kilometer Promenade des Anglais, or ‘le prom.’ Wander beneath the palm trees and townhouses of Boulevard Victor Hugo and peruse the morning markets selling flowers and fresh produce on the Cours Saleya. Beach hotels in Nice provide some of the best coastal getaways in the south of France.

Biarritz: A Coastal haven on the Bay of Biscay

Across the country from the glitz and glamor of the French Riviera lies the wild and dramatic Atlantic coast, and with it the Bay of Biscay. Only a few kilometers from the Spanish border, Biarritz’s charm is equal parts stylish resorts and cool surf hangout. Beach hotels in this southern French city are ideal if you want to practice your technique or learn to surf among the idyllic waves that lap the coast. The most popular surf spots can be found at Biarritz’s central Côte des Basques or Plage I’ll Biarritz. If you want to explore the sights of the city, there’s plenty to discover. Culture vulture’s will be spoiled for choice by the many art galleries and museums available, and chocolate fans should not miss an afternoon learning about the history of the confectionary treat at the Planète Musée du Chocolat Biarritz. To enjoy panoramic views over the Bay of Biscay and across to the Basque coast, venture to the Pointe Saint Martin and climb the 248 steps to the top of the Biarritz lighthouse. On the other side of the bay opposite the lighthouse you’ll find the Biarritz Aquarium which will captivate families with its Caribbean lagoon, coral-reefs, sharks and seals. Beach hotels anywhere in France provide the perfect coastal vacation, no matter what you’re looking to discover.