The stretch of coast between St Raphael and Cannes is known as the Corniche Esterel. There are many small beaches and coves along this route, some better than others.
Corniche Esterel Beach
Rocky coastline south of Cannes
The best way to explore this part of the coast is on one of the boat trips that take you directly from Cannes, hiring a boat for the day, or better still chartering a yacht so that you can moor up in one of the tranquil coves and spend a few days enjoying this magnificent scenery.
This area is so spectacular, thanks to the backdrop of the Massif Esterel and its forested hillsides. The Massif Esterel was produced by volcanic activity in the area and the end result is bulbous red rock mountains that thrust up against the Mediterranean sky. The vivid contrast of green forest, red rock and blue sky is reminiscent of Utah, USA and Uluru, Australia.
The beach area is made up of sand at the rear and (very) large rounded pebbles at the waters front. There is a picnic area and watersports and free parking. Around the corner from Drumont is the small resort town of Agay. Pleasant enough, it has several sandy beaches and calm, clear waters.
On the other side of the bay, you'll find a very pretty small beach - Plage Baumette - with its wonderful blue-green sea and lush vegetation. Beyond Agay is where you'll see the red rocks of the Massif Esterel. The beaches become rocky coves, accessible via steps cut into the cliffs. The Plage des Anglais has a tiny beach and pier where you can sit and enjoy the blue-green sea, the red cliffs in some peace and quiet.
Cap Antheor provides more accessible sandy-pebbly beaches, shaded by palm trees with the stunning red mountains as the backdrop. The terrain then becomes more rugged and it's back to climbing down steps to discover hidden coves where sailing boats often drop anchor. the area around Vila Dani is particularly recommended if you are lucky (or early) enough to bag a parking spot.
The final resort town at the north end of the Cornich is Theole sur Mer - a rather charming and pretty town with a couple of sandy beaches and a cute marina.
Setting & Location
The beaches that start from St Raphael are small and sandy (coarse, gravelly sand) and sit right next to the coastal road. Plage du Veillat, Peyguiere Plage, Plage de la Pescade and Plage de Poulouris all fall into this category.
Further up (north) from St Raphael, you'll find Plage du Dramont. This is where the Allies disembarked in 1944 with 900 boats and 450,000 men.
Water Safety & Clarity
The clear water is stunning but there are quite a lot of rocks in the water. Good for snorkelling but not so great for young children or less confident swimmers.
Beach Quality
The beaches here are made up of a mixture of sand and some rounded pebbles.
Villas nearby
Villas in Cannes
See all Villas in Cannes-
Visit website 
Thea Villa, Agay
Exceptional villa "feet in the water" to rent with view on the sea and on the red rocks of the Esterel, between Saint Raphael, Cannes and Saint Tropez.
-
Enquire 
Hsud0071 Villa
On the Commune of Mougins, in the heights of Cannes 5 km from the Palais des Festivals and the Croisette, beautiful country house of character located on a park of 1.2 Ha.
-
Enquire 
Hsud0095 Villa, Mouans-Sartoux
Holiday villa in Cannes: 12 kms from Cannes in Mouans-Sartoux, with a beautiful park of olive trees, comfortable country house located in a park of 1 hectare.
-
Enquire 
Hsud0039 Villa
Located in Mougins, this magnificent villa has been fully renovated to a very high standard.
-
Enquire 
Hsud0049 Villa, Cabris
Located in Cabris, 6km from Grasse and 20km from Cannes, in a very quiet area surrounded by greenery, charming villa entirely renovated in 2021 located on a 3.000 m² plot.
-
Enquire 
Moulin De Saint Donat Villa, Callian
The villa in Callian has 6 bedrooms and has capacity for 14 people.
Hotels nearby
Hotels in Cannes
See all Hotels in Cannes-
Visit website 
Splendid Hotel
Facing the sea, overlooking the historic Yacht Harbour and the Palais des Festivals
Exceptional view of the sea, the Bay of Cannes, Iles de Lérins, and the old quarter Le Suquet. Ideally situated, at the start of La Croisette, just steps from luxury shopping and beaches of golden sand.
-
Check Booking.com 
Royal Mougins Hotel
Luxurious suites with golf course views, a spa, and gourmet dining, just minutes from Cannes
Located just a few minutes' drive from the charming medieval village of Mougins, this stunning four-star spa hotel enjoys a truly exceptional setting.
-
Check Booking.com 
America Hotel
Elegant rooms with modern amenities and personalised services in the heart of Cannes
Hotel America is just a minute’s walk from the Palais des Festivals, nestled between the Croisette and rue d’Antibes, and only steps away from the beaches, marinas, and casinos, offering a memorable stay in the heart of Cannes.
-
Check Booking.com 
Cannes Villa St Barth Hotel
Luxurious rooms and suites set in exotic surroundings, offering an unforgettable stay
This modern, spacious guest house combines the comforts and facilities of a four-star hotel with the relaxed, friendly atmosphere of a high-end guest house.
-
Check Booking.com 
Villa Garbo Luxury Aparthotel
Stylish serviced apartments just moments from the Croisette
Just minutes from the Croisette, La Villa Garbo is a luxury aparthotel offering refined serviced apartments in the heart of Cannes. Combining elegance with comfort, this discreet Belle Époque residence promises an exceptional stay with all the freedom and intimacy of a private apartment, plus the service of a boutique hotel.
-
Check Booking.com 
La Bastide Saint Antoine Hotel, Grasse
Charming Provençal retreat with luxury suites, panoramic terrace, and Michelin-starred dining
La Bastide Saint-Antoine in Grasse sits within five hectares of lush Mediterranean gardens and olive groves. It overlooks the surrounding plains and the Bay of Cannes, offering stunning views and a feast for the senses.
Things to do nearby
Things To Do in Cannes
See all Things To Do in Cannes-
Visit website 
Motorbike hire
Wide selection of BMW, Ducati, Harley Davidson and Triumph motorcycles available for rent
Based in Cannes, motorbike and scooter rental so you can explore the South of France.
-
Visit website 
Luxury Lizard Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
-
Visit website 
Road bike hire
Quality road bike rentals with delivery to the French Riviera
This company is based in Cannes and offers a wide range of road bikes, with delivery available to Antibes.
-
Visit website 
Aqualand Waterpark, Frejus
19 super water slides on one site, with toboggans & the black hole
With numerous slides, including the King Cobra - unique is western Europe - this is the largest waterpark on the Cote d'Azur! Inludes a rest area, show area, clockroom, fast food, grill and pizzeria, ice creams, drinks, and shop.
-
Visit website 
One Week Yacht Charter Itineraries
Specialised yacht charter itineraries to truly experience the French Riviera, leaving from Cannes
Experience the French Riviera your way with 212 yachts, using one of their sample itineraries or with a specialised itinerary created just for you, based on what you like and don't like, as well as their own expertise.
-
Visit website 
Luxury To Escape Yacht Trip
Luxury private yacht trip along the French Riviera for up to ten people
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
Restaurants nearby
Restaurants in Cannes
See all Restaurants in Cannes-
Enquire 
La Palme d'Or Restaurant
Fine dining and Mediterranean views at one of Cannes’ most acclaimed restaurants
Awarded one Michelin star, La Palme d'Or invites you to discover chef Jean Imbert’s culinary artistry in an unforgettable setting.
-
Enquire 
La Bastide Saint Antoine Restaurant, Grasse
Michelin-starred Provençal retreat with creative cuisine and panoramic sea views
Michelin-starred La Bastide Saint-Antoine offers a refined retreat near Cannes, where chef Jacques Chibois creates inspired Provençal cuisine. Set in a stunning country house with lush gardens and panoramic sea views, it’s the perfect blend of gastronomy, elegance, and tranquillity.
-
Enquire 
Carlton Beach Club
Taste of the Riviera with views over the sparkling bay and a touch of French Dolce Vita
Soak up the sunshine and sea breeze over lunch at the Carlton Beach Club, where local flavours, fresh ingredients and a touch of French Dolce Vita come together by the water’s edge.
-
Enquire 
L'Or Bleu Restaurant, Theoule-sur-Mer
Michelin-starred dining with surprise menus and breathtaking sea views
L'Or Bleu, a Michelin-starred restaurant, offers an unforgettable dining experience where cuisine is elevated to the level of art. Set in an elegant, contemporary setting with breathtaking views over the bay of Théoule-sur-Mer, this Relais & Châteaux establishment is the perfect place for a memorable evening.
-
Enquire 
La Plage Belles Rives Beach Club, Juan les Pins
Private beach of the Belles Rives hotel in Juan les Pins
Soft white sand, a private pontoon, a lounge bar and a restaurant at the water's edge make this beach club a very special place to be.
Read more about La Plage Belles Rives Beach Club, Juan les Pins
-
Enquire 
Les Pecheurs Gourmet Restaurant, Juan Les Pins
One Michelin star gourmet restaurant within the Cap d'Antibes Beach Hotel
Enjoy a culinary experience at this fine dining restaurant, Les Pêcheurs. It offers a creative cuisine that deftly blends flavours and fragrances from throughout the French Riviera.
Read more about Les Pecheurs Gourmet Restaurant, Juan Les Pins
Nightlife nearby
Bars & Clubs in Cannes
See all Bars & Clubs in Cannes-
Enquire 
Carlton Bar
Creative cocktails served with flair in an elegant, artisanal setting
Whether you’re after a timeless classic or a custom-made creation, the bar’s mixologist will craft your perfect drink with care and creativity.
-
Enquire 
Fouquet's Bar
Stylish retreat for signature cocktails and sunset relaxation
Bar Fouquet’s, located on the iconic Croisette, offers a glamorous setting where you can enjoy expertly crafted signature cocktails by Emanuele Balestra. Perfect for socialising and unwinding, this contemporary space combines stylish surroundings with refreshing drinks and delightful treats.
-
Enquire 
Ma Nolans
Find a bit of the Irish in the heart of Cannes
Ma Nolan’s, Cannes is the latest addition to Ma's family! A stone's throw away from the Palais des Festivals and a two minute walk from the station it is in the perfect location.
-
Enquire 
Baoli Nightclub
Open-air, extremely sophisticated fine dining restaurant, club & lounge bar
A magical place offering food, music and dancing under the palm trees and stars…while perhaps looking at some film stars too.
-
Enquire 
Morrisons Pub
Sports bar, popular pub & live music all in one venue
Morrisons is a lively and fun Irish pub in central Cannes. It's a pub, a bar, a club and a place for live music.
-
Warm Up Bowling 
Warm Up Bowling
State of the art bowling alley for those rainy day activities
If you fancy a different and fun night out in Cannes, then head to Cannes Bowling in Cannes La Boca. There are 16 alleys and over 2,500m² of pure bowling entertainment.
Sights nearby
Sights in Cannes
See all Sights in Cannes-
Les Calanques de l'Esterel, Saint-Raphael 
Les Calanques de l'Esterel, Saint-Raphael
Dramatic scenery, imposing cliffs and secluded coves near Saint-Raphael
Les Calanques de l'Esterel are rocky inlets and coves that expand from Saint-Raphael to Mandelieu-la-Napoule and drop steeply into the limpid waters of the Mediterranean.
-
Visit website 
Basilique Notre-Dame de la Victoire, Saint Raphael
Beautiful church built at the end of 19th century inspired by the church of Saint Sophie in Istanbul
This beautiful church was built as part of the plans by Mayor Felix Martin to "transform" St Raphael into a more attractive town for people to live in and tourist resort. Abbot Bernard commissioned the project to architect Pierre Aublé.
Read more about Basilique Notre-Dame de la Victoire, Saint Raphael
-
Visit website 
Archaeology Museum, Fréjus
Displaying Fréjus’s archaeological heritage, mainly from the Roman period
Situated right next to the cloisters of the Cathedral in Fréjus, the museum houses some great examples of Roman artefacts from the ongoing excavations in the city.
-
Visit website 
Fréjus Cathedral, Fréjus
This cathedral in central Fréjus is part of a larger fortified medieval complex
Dating back to the 5th century when the baptistery was built makes it the oldest in the Provence region and one of the oldest in France. At this ancient, Merovingian style baptistery you can still see a 5th century baptismal basin for full immersion, as well as Roman columns.
-
L'Esterel National Park 
L'Esterel National Park
Rugged landscape of red rock stretching from Provence to the coastline
A volcanic range of mountains covering around 32,000 hectares and stretching between Saint-Raphael and Theoule-sur-Mer.
-
Parc Zoologique de Frejus (Frejus Zoo) 
Parc Zoologique de Frejus (Frejus Zoo)
Zoo where you can see animals from all around the world as well as Mediterranean plants
Established in 1971, the Zoological Park Frejus is located in a typical Mediterranean natural landscape and enjoys the mild climate of the Riviera.
Golf-clubs nearby
Golf Courses in Cannes
See all Golf Courses in Cannes-
Enquire 
Royal Mougins Golf Course
Luxurious golf course that forms part of the Royal Mougins Resort & Estate
Founded in 1993, the Royal Mougins Golf Club is a course of exceptional quality. Designed by world-famous American architect, the late Robert von Hagge, the par 71, 18-hole course extends for 6,004 m through a lush, wooded vale.
-
Enquire 
Blue Green l'Esterel Golf Course, Saint Raphael
18 hole golf course designed by Trent Jones Snr
The golf course is situated near the famous Riviera resort of Saint Raphael on the outskirts of Cap Esterel.
Read more about Blue Green l'Esterel Golf Course, Saint Raphael
-
Enquire 
Old Course Golf Course, Cannes-Mandelieu
Oldest golf course on the French Riviera, dating back to 1891
The Cannes-Mandelieu Old Race golf course was drawn and traced by Harry Colt in 1891 at the request of Grand Duke Michel of Russia.
-
Enquire 
Golf Course de Villeneuve-Loubet, Villeneuve Loubet
A 9 hole course close to the town of Grasse in the heart of the Riviera
A great course for beginners to experienced players, slightly hilly, the greens are linked in a calm and exotic atmosphere in the heart of the Riviera.
Read more about Golf Course de Villeneuve-Loubet, Villeneuve Loubet
-
Enquire 
Cannes-Mougins Golf Country Course
All the features one can expect from a modern golf club
The Cannes-Mougins Golf Club provides all features you are expecting from a modern golf within an historical environment. The Cannes Country Club was founded in 1923 by a group of illustrious gentlemen such as Aga Khan, Prince Pierre of Monaco and Baron Edouard de Rothschild.
-
Enquire 
Saint Donat Golf Course, Grasse
Beautifully situated golf course with stylish restaurant
This beautifully situated golf club has two courses, one 18 hole and one 9 hole, plus a practice range and practice bunker.
Towns nearby
Towns & Villages in Cannes
See all Towns & Villages in Cannes-
Saint Raphaël 
Saint Raphaël
Traditional French beach resort, close to the town of Fréjus
At the beginning of the 20th century Saint Raphaël was a grand and glamorous resort that was sadly blitzed during the Second World War, destroying many of the Belle Époque buildings, so the atmosphere of the town is not exactly Saint Tropez.
-
Fréjus 
Fréjus
A once coastal port town that is steeped in history
Fréjus was the first naval base in the Mediterranean for the Romans back in the first century BC, with ruins including an amphitheatre, theatre and aqueduct.
-
Ile de Saint Honorat, Lerins Islands 
Ile de Saint Honorat, Lerins Islands
An island steeped in history and wine just off the Côte d'Azur coastline
The island of Saint Honorat is the smaller of the two inhabited Lerins islands. Its main attraction is the monastery, a wonderful stone building well worth a visit.
-
Ile Sainte Marguerite 
Ile Sainte Marguerite
Beautiful island just off the south coast of Cannes with stunning views of the Riviera
The gorgeous island of Saint Marguerite is the largest of the islands off the coast of Cannes. Regular ferries run from Cannes and only take around 15 minutes, yet this small island made up of a quiet pine forest and pretty coves feels far separated from the glitzy boutiques and hotels of Cannes.
-
Mougins, Alpes-Maritimes 
Mougins, Alpes-Maritimes
Gorgeous gastronomic and artful village to the north of Cannes
Mougins covers a large swathe of hillside above Cannes, and this is where the smart money lives - luxurious villas and exquisite gardens dot the landscape, just close enough to enjoy Cannes, but far enough away to avoid the craziness.
-
Vallauris Golfe-Juan 
Vallauris Golfe-Juan
A great area between the towns of Cannes and Antibes
The commune is known as Vallauris Golfe-Juan, combining the traditional charm of the pottery capital of the Riviera, Vallauris, which sits inland, with the seaside resort and sandy beaches of Golfe-Juan.
