7 Best Beach Clubs in Grimaud, French Riviera Guide
Fringed by soft-sand crescents and framed by the tranquil Gulf of Saint-Tropez, Grimaud’s shoreline is a dreamscape for Mediterranean days that drift from salt-kissed mornings to rose-gold sunsets. The beach clubs here are as varied as the coastline itself—some reverent to barefoot simplicity, others unabashedly chic—yet all share the Riviera’s signature blend of sun, sea, and a leisurely rhythm that invites you to linger. This guide unveils seven of the best beach clubs in Grimaud, each chosen for its distinctive character, thoughtful amenities, and the sense of place it creates along the water. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly ease, refined dining over the waves, or a lounge-forward setting with music and mixology, you’ll find a match among these standout spots.
Grimaud’s Shoreline at a Glance
Grimaud unfurls along the northern rim of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, with beaches that face south toward the azure arc shared with Saint-Tropez, Gassin, and Ramatuelle. The coastline is a sequence of gentle bays and sheltered coves: the wide sands of Port Grimaud’s Plage Nord and Plage Sud; the long, airy expanse of Beauvallon; the intimate nooks of Les Cigales and Guerrevieille; and the natural sweep near Saint-Pons-les-Mûres and Gros Pin. A hallmark of Grimaud’s beach clubs is approachability—smart yet unpretentious, attentive without being ostentatious. Loungers and parasols are the norm, as are open-air restaurants that revolve around bright Mediterranean flavors and crisp local rosé. Watersports are readily available, and the views—boats skipping across glassy water, mountains hazy in the distance—remain quietly spectacular all day.
1) Beauvallon Beach Club: Panoramic Ease and Day-Into-Evening Charm
Setting and Vibe
Beauvallon is where space and horizon meet. The beach club here stretches along a broad ribbon of sand with expansive gulf views that sweep from Sainte-Maxime to Saint-Tropez. The ambiance leans toward refined leisure: slatted wood decking, pale parasols, and a considered soundtrack that stays background-level until late afternoon, when sunset energy naturally builds. It’s a seamless choice for couples and groups of friends who want a full day on the sand without sacrificing comfort or culinary quality.
Food and Drink
The menu celebrates seaside classics and clean, ingredient-driven cooking: delicate crudo, grilled sea bream, linguine with clams, and crisp salads that pile on local produce. Expect a thoughtful rosé list with a few standout whites for seafood pairings, plus crafted spritzes and no-nonsense espresso mid-afternoon. Dessert tends to lean rustic and seasonal—think citrus and almond tortes or a zingy lemon tart you can share.
Who It’s For
Guests who appreciate unobstructed sea views, responsive service, and a comfortable sun-lounger setup that can carry you from late morning to sundown. The swimming area is generally calm, making it welcoming for leisurely dips between courses.
Good to Know
- Afternoon golden hour is spectacular; consider booking loungers that catch the last light.
- Onshore breezes can freshen in late afternoon; a light coverup comes in handy.
- Parking fills quickly during high season—arrive early for a smoother start to the day.
2) Port Grimaud Plage Nord Beach Club: Laid-Back Riviera Classic
Setting and Vibe
Plage Nord sits at the northern edge of Port Grimaud’s sandy sweep, with a beach club that channels classic Riviera ease—whitewashed tones, woven textures, and a rhythm guided by the tide. The feel is relaxed yet polished, and the shoreline is gentle enough for long swims. Views stretch across the gulf, and bobbing boats lend a postcard look to every photo.
Food and Drink
Expect a menu anchored in Mediterranean staples: Niçoise-inspired salads, grilled prawns, baked fish with fennel and lemon, and crisp flatbreads ideal for sharing. The bar turns out beach-perfect cocktails—light, citrusy, and balanced—alongside local wines served properly chilled. For a non-alcoholic option, homemade iced teas with herbs and stone fruit are a refreshing pick.
Who It’s For
Couples and groups seeking a relaxed, quietly stylish experience. Swimmers and paddleboarders will appreciate the gentle bay, and the club’s low-key tempo makes it a smart choice if you want the day to feel slow and spacious.
Good to Know
- Mornings are serene; arrive early if you favor tranquil swims before lunch.
- Shade is generous but adjustable; reposition parasols as the sun arcs to keep cool.
- The shallow approach is comfortable for less confident swimmers.
3) Port Grimaud Plage Sud Beach Club: Social Energy with a Signature Sunset
Setting and Vibe
Plage Sud carries a little more buzz, particularly as afternoon slides toward evening. The beach club here often introduces a more upbeat soundtrack, softening during lunch and stepping up a notch later in the day. Think modular lounge areas, curated beach boutiques, and a social scene that still feels welcoming rather than exclusive.
Food and Drink
Menus often nod to modern coastal cuisine—tuna tataki with sesame and citrus, vibrant crudités with anchovy dip, grilled octopus with olive-y potatoes, and larger sharing platters like herb-roasted chicken or whole fish. The bar leans into vibrant spritzes, herb-driven gin coolers, and seasonal fruit mocktails, all designed for easy drinking in the sun.
Who It’s For
Friends and couples who like the sound of a beach day that crescendos into sundown. If your ideal afternoon includes a swim, a second round at the bar, and a camera roll full of sunset shots, this is a strong match.
Good to Know
- Late lunch seatings get lively; plan midday if you prefer quieter dining.
- Bring a hat and light linens; the southern exposure can feel particularly bright.
- Sunset reservations for loungers or tables are popular during peak season.
4) Les Cigales Private Beach Club: Intimate and Under-the-Radar
Setting and Vibe
Les Cigales is a petite bay tucked between more expansive stretches of sand, and the beach club reflects that intimacy. Expect a more low-key atmosphere, fewer rows of loungers, and staff who remember faces by late afternoon. The cove-like setting creates a sense of privacy without feeling isolated.
Food and Drink
The kitchen skews clean and unfussy: grilled fish dressed in olive oil and herbs, salads with bright vinaigrettes, and a short but confident dessert list. Drinks tend toward simplicity done right—properly chilled rosé, crisp whites, and sparkling water with citrus and mint. It’s the kind of place where you finish lunch and realize you’ve been talking for hours, toes still in the sand.
Who It’s For
Beachgoers who value intimacy and gentle service over spectacle. The sheltered nature of the cove often makes swimming especially comfortable, and the smaller scale ensures a calmer pace even in high season.
Good to Know
- Shade can be limited during peak sun; choose your lounger placement thoughtfully.
- Arrive early for the prime first row near the waterline.
- Late afternoon brings mellow light and glassy water—ideal for long swims.
5) Guerrevieille Beach Club: Coastal Simplicity with a Local Soul
Setting and Vibe
Guerrevieille edges toward a more naturalistic stretch of coastline, where the beach club brings structure and comfort to a scenery-first location. The design is simple and coastal—think driftwood hues, rope details, and linen accents—delivering a grounded, local feel. Behind the loungers, pines whisper in the afternoon breeze; ahead, the gulf flickers a palette of blues.
Food and Drink
You’ll find the greatest hits of Riviera beach dining: grilled sardines when in season, calamari lightly fried and dusted with herbs, and colorful salads piled with ripe tomatoes, olives, and basil. The bar keeps things classic with chilled beers, spritzes, and frozen fruit blends that are all about sunshine in a glass.
Who It’s For
Those who prefer the essentials: a comfortable chair, honest food, and superb water quality. It’s also a smart pick for unhurried readers who want a quiet, scenic base for the afternoon.
Good to Know
- Expect a steady sea breeze; pack a light layer for late-day comfort.
- Water clarity can be exceptional after calm mornings; plan swims early.
- Simple doesn’t mean spartan—the team keeps a close eye on guest comfort.
6) Gros Pin Beach Club: Nature-Led Relaxation with Family Appeal
Setting and Vibe
Gros Pin takes its name from the pines lining the beach, and the atmosphere follows suit: relaxed, fragrant, and gently shaded. The beach club tends to draw mixed groups and families who want a calm base with easy swimming and an unfussy setup. There’s room to spread out, and a friendly cadence to service that makes lingering a pleasure.
Food and Drink
Menus cater to varied tastes—tender grilled chicken, buttery white fish, pastas for hearty appetites, and fresh fruit platters that look as good as they taste. Drinks are simple and refreshing, with a few playful touches like basil lemonade or peach-and-ginger spritzes that are as photogenic as they are thirst-quenching.
Who It’s For
Groups seeking a relaxed day where the details are handled and the mood stays mellow. The shallows are welcoming for prolonged dips, and the pine-dappled setting helps moderate midday heat.
Good to Know
- Arrive earlier in peak weeks to secure shaded loungers.
- Even on bright days, pine cover cools the sand—barefoot strolls are comfortable.
- Late afternoons can bring mirror-smooth water—great for long, easy swims.
7) Saint-Pons-les-Mûres Beach Club: Watersports-Friendly with Breezy Views
Setting and Vibe
Near Saint-Pons-les-Mûres, the shoreline opens to expansive gulf vistas and an appealing sense of space. The beach club blends relaxing loungers with active options: paddleboards, kayaks, and, when conditions align, a touch of breeze for seasoned sailors nearby. The vibe stays inclusive, drawing an international crowd that converges over late lunches and unhurried afternoons.
Food and Drink
Expect hearty plates alongside light bites—marinated vegetables with burrata, grilled swordfish with lemon and herbs, and colorful bowls with quinoa, cucumbers, and fragrant greens. The bar offers classic Riviera pours and bright mocktails that complement a day in or on the water.
Who It’s For
Active beachgoers who want the option to alternate between lounging and movement without leaving their base. It’s equally good for dedicated sunseekers who appreciate open views and a sense of freedom.
Good to Know
- Check wind conditions if planning to paddle—mornings are typically calmer.
- Afternoon light here is superb for photography; the water takes on a deep cobalt hue.
- Keep an eye on personal items if you’re frequently in the water; staff can advise on storage.
How to Choose the Right Beach Club for Your Style
With seven excellent options, the “best” choice depends on what your day looks like. If you’re seeking serenity and a bit of seclusion, the intimate scale of Les Cigales is hard to beat. For all-day relaxation with sweeping panoramas, Beauvallon delivers effortless comfort. If a social, camera-ready sunset appeals, Port Grimaud’s Plage Sud shines. Prefer classic, balanced days on the sand with gentle swims? Plage Nord offers a calm, old-school Riviera ambiance. Nature-led relaxation and family-friendly setups point to Gros Pin and Guerrevieille, while activity-seekers will gravitate toward Saint-Pons-les-Mûres. Ultimately, imagine your perfect afternoon and choose the club whose mood and layout match it.
Best Times of Day and Seasonal Nuances
Morning brings peaceful swims and cooler temperatures—ideal for laid-back coffee on your lounger before the lunch crowd arrives. Midday delivers the signature Riviera brightness; prioritize shade and hydration. Late afternoon is a sweet spot: breezes pick up, the light softens, and the energy loosens as the sun drops. As for the calendar, beach clubs typically open spring to autumn. Early season offers calmer shores and more space; high season brings buzz and longer daylight; late season pairs warm water with relaxed crowds. Plan accordingly and consider your tolerance for heat and activity levels.
Beach Club Etiquette: Short and Sweet
- Respect spacing. Keep towels and bags neatly within your lounger area.
- Mind the volume. Music and conversation should complement, not dominate, the setting.
- Rinse first. A quick freshwater rinse before lunch keeps sand where it belongs.
- Be punctual. If you’ve agreed a time window for your loungers or table, arrive on time.
- Treat staff kindly. Clear communication and courtesy go a long way on busy days.
- Leave no trace. Dispose of waste thoughtfully and pack up with care.
What to Pack for a Seamless Day
- Sun gear: reef-conscious SPF, a wide-brim hat, and polarized sunglasses.
- Coverups: light linen or cotton to transition from beach to table.
- Footwear: sandals for sand and something sturdier for the boardwalk or parking areas.
- Hydration: a reusable water bottle to refill throughout the day.
- Extras: a compact book, a phone battery pack, and a soft beach pouch for essentials.
Most clubs provide towels, but checking ahead helps you pack only what you need. Consider a light scarf or wrap for breezier late afternoons, especially early and late in the season.
Food, Drink, and the Riviera Palette
The culinary heart of Grimaud’s beach clubs is deliciously simple: pristine seafood, sun-ripened produce, and bright herbs, supported by olive oil and citrus. Look for daily fish, grilled or roasted; zucchini and tomato tarts; and classic salads that benefit from proximity to the sea. Rosé is the emblematic pour—pale, mineral, and refreshing—but don’t overlook lively whites or well-made non-alcoholic spritzes that allow you to savor the afternoon without slowing down. If you love to graze, choose a club that leans into shareable plates; if you favor an unhurried, multi-course lunch, opt for a dining-forward venue where service pacing is an art form.
Families on the Sand: Smooth-Running Tips
- Shallow entries: Plage Nord and Gros Pin typically offer gentle approaches for younger swimmers.
- Shade strategy: Request parasols positioned to cover loungers during peak midday sun.
- Snack cadence: Stagger light snacks around swims to keep energy steady and mealtimes calm.
- Quiet windows: Mornings and early lunches tend to be the most relaxed for families.
- Activities: Choose clubs with calm water and nearby paddle options to mix lounging with gentle movement.
A small beach bag with wipes, a change of clothes, and extra water keeps the day friction-free. Staff at Grimaud’s beach clubs are accustomed to family needs and will help with practicalities like high chairs or shade positioning when asked.
Watersports and Wellness
Grimaud’s protected gulf makes for enjoyable water time, whether you prefer easy swims, paddleboarding, or a short coastal kayak. Mornings usually offer calmer conditions, while late afternoons may bring a friendly breeze. If you plan to paddle, look for beach clubs near rental stands and ask about best routes along the shore for a gentle, scenic loop. On land, simple wellness routines pair well with the setting: a beach walk before lunch, a stretch beneath the parasol, or a mindful pause with your feet in the water as boats drift past.
Budgeting and Value
Beach clubs in Grimaud span a range of price points. What you pay typically reflects location, lounger placement, and the kitchen’s ambitions. To maximize value, choose a club whose culinary style matches your appetite: grazing menus for casual days, refined kitchens for celebratory lunches. A well-spaced lounger with reliable shade can easily be worth the premium if you intend to spend the full day. And if you love the sunset atmosphere but not the midday heat, consider arriving mid-afternoon to enjoy the club’s best hours in one focused window.
Sustainability on the Shore
The gulf’s beauty is its own best argument for care. Small steps compound: refill a reusable bottle, request no straws unless necessary, and ensure sunscreen is water-friendly. Many beach clubs reduce single-use plastics and keep waste streams tidy; your cooperation strengthens those efforts. Local, seasonal menus support regional producers, and fresh, simply prepared fish is both delicious and sensible. Above all, treat the shoreline as cherished public space—because it is.
Accessibility and Comfort Considerations
Several parts of Grimaud’s coastline offer gently sloping entries and, in some locations, ramps or beach access mats that ease movement over sand. If accessibility is a priority, contact a club in advance to ask about entry points, restroom access, and seating arrangements with minimal steps. A few small adjustments—like a lounger closer to the waterline or dedicated shade—can transform comfort and enjoyment. Staff are typically attentive and happy to help configure a setup that works for you.
Safety, Sun, and Sea
- Hydrate consistently from late morning onward.
- Reapply SPF, especially after swims, and seek shade in peak midday hours.
- Observe swim markers and boating lanes; cross with care if paddling.
- Mind underfoot terrain—natural beaches can have occasional pebbles or shells.
- Keep valuables secure; a small pouch or locker solution is sensible if you’re in the water often.
Common-sense caution keeps the day carefree. If conditions shift—winds rise, currents strengthen—staff will usually advise. When in doubt, ask.
Design Details That Make a Difference
What separates a good beach club from a memorable one is often in the details: the angle of the loungers relative to the sun’s path; the spacing between rows; the quality of shade; the smoothness with which food arrives even at peak times; and the attentiveness of staff who anticipate needs without hovering. In Grimaud, many beach clubs prize these nuances. When you feel yourself exhale upon arrival, that’s the design working—visually, spatially, and sensorially.
Itinerary Ideas: Shaping a Perfect Beach Day
- Early Bird Serenity: Arrive mid-morning at Plage Nord, swim while the water is glassy, enjoy a light lunch, then retreat for a mid-afternoon siesta under the parasol.
- Long Lunch and Sunset: Book into Plage Sud late lunchtime, pivot to lounge mode around 4 p.m., and let the late-day color show guide you to dinner.
- Nature and Nibbles: Set up at Guerrevieille or Gros Pin, take a coastal walk, return for simple grilled fish, and finish with a dip before heading out.
- Active Interlude: Choose Saint-Pons-les-Mûres, paddle a short loop in the calm morning, then sink into a lounger with a bright salad and sparkling water.
- Intimate Escape: Spend a quiet afternoon at Les Cigales with a book, a carafe of chilled water, and a sunset coffee to close the day.
Why Grimaud’s Beach Clubs Stand Out
Grimaud marries the Riviera’s polish with an easygoing disposition. The clubs here elevate the essentials without gilding them—thoughtful food, kind service, and a direct relationship with the sea. There’s room to breathe and space to choose your pace, from sun-soaked energy to cove-like calm. In a coastline famous for its scene, Grimaud offers a softer glow: no less beautiful, just closer to the rhythms of the day and the feel of the water at your feet.
Final Thoughts: Choose Your Horizon
The seven beach clubs highlighted here—anchored along Beauvallon, Port Grimaud’s twin strands, Les Cigales, Guerrevieille, Gros Pin, and Saint-Pons-les-Mûres—each deliver a distinct experience shaped by shore, light, and service. The right choice is the one that mirrors your mood. If you wake to a clear sky and consider the day yours, set your sights on Grimaud’s sands and choose the horizon that calls to you. When the sun arcs overhead and the gulf flashes its brightest blue, you’ll know you’ve chosen well.
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