Best time to visit: Early morning offers the most serene atmosphere and beautiful light on the fort. Weekdays are significantly quieter than weekends. The beach faces northeast, so it gets lovely morning sun but can lose direct sunlight in late afternoon.

What to bring: Beach shoes are recommended due to the pebbly sections. Bring snorkeling gear—the rocky areas have excellent marine life. An umbrella is useful as natural shade is limited, though there are some shaded spots near the rocks.

Parking: Free street parking available along Avenue du 11 Novembre and near the Fort Carré entrance. Much easier parking than central Antibes beaches. Can also park at Port Vauban and walk (5-10 minutes).

Swimming conditions: Generally calm and protected waters. The seabed is a mix of sand and rocks—great for exploring with a mask and snorkel. Watch for occasional boat traffic from the nearby port.

Local tip: This beach is particularly beautiful at sunset when the fort is illuminated against the evening sky. It’s also less affected by the Mistral wind than the eastern beaches, making it a good alternative on windy days.

Photography: The fort creates a dramatic backdrop for photos. Best shots are from the southern end of the beach looking back toward the fortress, especially in morning light.

Note: This is a quieter, more natural beach with fewer services. If you prefer a lively beach club atmosphere, choose Ponteil or Salis instead. But if you want peaceful swimming with a historic backdrop, Fort Carré Beach is unbeatable.

Best time to visit: Morning to early afternoon for best sun. Arrive before 11 AM in summer to secure a spot on this small beach.

What to bring: Beach shoes for pebbles and rocks. Snorkeling gear essential—the underwater landscape is beautiful. Bring umbrella and all supplies as facilities are minimal.

Facilities: Very basic—no permanent facilities or beach clubs. Nearest restaurants are 10-15 minutes walk. Bring food and drinks.

Parking: Limited free street parking along Boulevard de la Garoupe. Arrive early (before 10 AM). Can also park at La Garoupe and walk south (10 minutes).

Local tip: Walk the nearby Sentier du Littoral coastal path for spectacular clifftop views and access to other hidden coves around Cap d’Antibes.

Best for: Snorkeling enthusiasts, families with older children, couples seeking intimacy, and those who prefer natural settings over beach club amenities.

Best time to visit: Early morning (before 10 AM) as space fills quickly in summer. The beach faces east, offering the best sunlight and dramatic mountain views in the morning.

What to bring: Beach shoes for public sections with some pebbles. Sunscreen is essential. Bring your own umbrella for the public beach as shade is limited.

Facilities: Public showers and basic toilets. Beach clubs offer excellent restaurants, bars, and full amenities.

Parking: Very limited free parking along Chemin de la Garoupe—arrive before 9 AM. Paid parking at nearby Villa Thuret botanical gardens. Many walk or cycle from other Cap d’Antibes areas (20-30 minutes).

Nearby attractions: Villa Thuret botanical gardens, Phare de la Garoupe lighthouse, and legendary Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc.

Photography: Morning light is magical—golden sand, turquoise water, and snow-capped mountains create stunning photos. Arrive at sunrise for best shots.

Getting there: Bus Line 2 stops at La Garoupe from Antibes town center. Cycling is popular through the Cap d’Antibes residential areas.

Best for: Romantic getaways, luxury beach experiences, exceptional swimming and snorkeling, and those seeking classic French Riviera elegance.

Note: This is Antibes’ most exclusive beach. Public space is limited in peak season—visit early morning or choose Salis Beach for more space and easier access.

Best time to visit: Arrive before 10 AM in summer to secure a good spot, as this popular beach fills up quickly. Early mornings also offer the most peaceful atmosphere and best light for photos.

What to bring: Beach shoes are highly recommended due to the pebbly areas. Bring an umbrella or rent one on-site, as natural shade is limited.

Facilities: The beach has public showers, toilets, and several snack bars nearby. You’ll find both free public areas and private beach clubs with lounger rentals (€15-25/day).

Parking: Can be challenging in peak season. Try the underground parking at Port Vauban or arrive by foot from the old town.

Local tip: Walk along the ramparts path after your beach session for spectacular sunset views over the Mediterranean and Cap d’Antibes.

Best time to visit: Afternoons and evenings when the beach comes alive with music and energy. Summer evenings feature beach parties and live music during the famous Jazz à Juan festival in July.

What to bring: Sunscreen and essentials. Most visitors rent loungers at beach clubs. Bring a light sweater for evening beach visits.

Facilities: Excellent throughout—showers, toilets, numerous beach clubs, restaurants, and bars. The promenade is lined with shops, cafés, and ice cream stands.

Beach clubs: Multiple private clubs offer loungers, umbrellas, and dining (€20-40/day). Popular spots include Pam Pam, Simone Beach, and Le Palm Beach. Reservations recommended in peak season.

Parking: Paid parking along Boulevard Charles Guillaumont. Challenging in summer—arrive early or use the nearby train station.

Local tip: Stay for sunset and evening atmosphere—beach clubs transform into lounge bars with DJs and cocktails. The beach has a magical vibe after dark.

Best for: Young travelers, groups, party seekers, water sports enthusiasts, and those wanting a lively, social beach experience with excellent amenities.

Best time to visit: Mornings offer calmer conditions and easier parking. Late afternoon (4-7 PM) is magical for golden hour swimming and sunset views. Weekdays are significantly less crowded than weekends in July-August.

What to bring: Sunscreen is essential as shade is limited on the public sections. Bring snorkeling gear—the water clarity is excellent for spotting fish near the rocks at either end of the beach.

Facilities: Clean public showers and toilets available. Several beach restaurants and snack bars line the promenade behind the beach. You’ll find both free public areas and private beach clubs (plages privées) offering loungers, umbrellas, and restaurant service (€20-35/day for set-up).

Parking: Free street parking along Boulevard James Wyllie and Boulevard du Maréchal Juin, but it fills quickly in summer. Arrive before 9:30 AM or consider cycling/taking the bus (Line 2 stops nearby).

Activities: Paddleboard and kayak rentals available. The calm waters make it perfect for stand-up paddleboarding beginners.

Local tip: Walk to the far southern end of the beach toward Cap d’Antibes for a quieter experience and better snorkeling around the rocky areas. The coastal path (Sentier du Littoral) starts nearby—perfect for a scenic walk before or after your beach time.

Best time to visit: Early morning (7-9 AM) is magical for sunrise views over the mountains and calm waters. The beach gets morning and midday sun but loses direct sunlight earlier in the afternoon due to its eastern orientation—perfect if you prefer to avoid the hottest hours.

What to bring: The sand can get very hot in summer, so flip-flops or beach shoes are useful. Bring a beach umbrella for afternoon shade. Snorkeling gear is worthwhile for exploring the rocky areas at the southern end near the port.

Facilities: Excellent public amenities including showers, toilets, and changing rooms. Multiple beach restaurants (paillotes) and cafés line the promenade. You’ll find both spacious free public areas and private beach clubs offering loungers and full service (€18-30/day).

Parking: Large free parking area along Avenue de Verdun and side streets, but arrives before 10 AM in July-August. Additional parking at the northern end near the small port. Much easier parking than other Antibes beaches.

Activities: Ideal for beach volleyball, paddleball, and jogging along the waterfront. Windsurfing and kitesurfing schools operate here. The Mistral wind can pick up in the afternoon, creating fun waves.

For families: Playgrounds and grassy areas behind the beach perfect for picnics. Shallow waters extend far out, making it very safe for children.

Local tip: Walk to the southern end near the Port de la Salis for the best mountain views and photo opportunities. The small port area has charming seafood restaurants perfect for a post-beach lunch.

Nearby attractions: The beach connects to lovely coastal walking paths. You can walk north toward Juan-les-Pins (20 minutes) or south along the coastal trail toward Cap d’Antibes.

Photography: Sunrise here is absolutely stunning with the Alps glowing pink. This is arguably the best sunrise spot in Antibes.