Golf Courses near Saint-Tropez: Luxury Golfing on the Côte d’Azur

Between aromatic pine forests and the shining curve of the Mediterranean, the Saint-Tropez area brings together the essence of luxury Riviera living with some of southern France’s most scenic golf. The fairways here are framed by umbrella pines, cork oaks, and maquis scrub, the greens are often elevated to capture sea breezes, and the vistas—across the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, toward the Massif des Maures, or over terraced vineyards—turn every round into a postcard. From championship layouts inland to charming seaside tracks that reward imagination as much as power, the region offers a rare mix: memorable golf that fits seamlessly into days shaped by sunshine, local markets, and long, late lunches on a terrace. This guide explores the standout courses within easy reach of Saint-Tropez, along with practical advice, etiquette, and insider tips for making the most of a Riviera golf escape.

The Côte d’Azur’s Golf Allure

Golf on the Côte d’Azur holds an appeal that stretches beyond yardages and scorecards. The terrain itself—rolling hills descending to sparkling bays—invites strategic play, with holes designed to work with the land rather than dominate it. Fairways often cascade along natural slopes; doglegs follow the contours of the hills; and greens nestle among olive groves and stone outcrops. The result is golf that feels connected to place. It’s not only the beauty of the setting but the way the courses encourage intelligent shot-making: managing wind off the sea, shaping drives to find canted fairways, and learning to trust wedges on fast, sun-kissed greens.

There’s a certain rhythm to golf days here. Mornings are fresh, perfect for an early tee time and a brisk pace; midday brings the sun to its zenith, a time to pause on a shady terrace; late afternoons turn golden, with the last few holes played in long, luminous light. Even off the course, the Riviera character permeates the experience: light Provençal cuisine, subtle rosés, and that unhurried elegance that makes a day feel both active and restorative. For golfers, it’s the rare destination where a memorable round dovetails naturally with art, history, and the slow pleasures of the Mediterranean coast.

When to Play: Seasonality, Sun, and Wind

One of the region’s greatest assets is the length of its playing season. Spring (March to May) brings mild temperatures, fresh greens, and flowering landscapes; it’s arguably the best time for scoring if you enjoy firmer fairways without midsummer heat. Early summer (June) remains very comfortable, with long daylight and a pleasant sea breeze. High summer (July and August) is warm—sometimes hot—but still playable with an early or late tee time and good hydration. Autumn (September and October) is a second sweet spot: seas are warm, afternoons mellow, and fairways recover quickly from peak-season traffic.

Wind is a variable worth noting. The Mistral—a cool, dry northwesterly—can sweep through, sharpening visibility and speeding up the golf course. On Mistral days, club up on exposed holes and play lower, more penetrating trajectories. Even gentle sea breezes are a factor on coastal and hillside layouts; keep an eye on flag movement versus tree canopies, which can be deceptive. As for rain, it’s less frequent than in many European destinations, with showers typically passing quickly. Still, a lightweight waterproof in the bag is prudent in shoulder seasons.

Etiquette and Practicalities on French Fairways

Golf culture on the Côte d’Azur favors respect for pace, presentation, and the environment. Collared shirts, tailored shorts or trousers, and soft-spiked shoes are the norm, and dress codes are generally enforced both on the course and in clubhouses. Many clubs appreciate a handicap certificate when you check in; carrying a physical or digital record of your handicap is sensible, particularly in peak months.

Pace of play is thoughtful and steady. Expect 4 to 4.5 hours for an 18-hole round, factoring in hilly terrain and scenic pauses. If the group behind is pressing, offering a courteous let-through on the next tee is welcomed. Buggies (carts) are available at most courses, although some players prefer trolleys to enjoy the surroundings more fully. On especially undulating courses, a buggy helps conserve energy and keep things moving.

As with most Mediterranean clubs, hydration is key. Water fountains can be spaced out, so carry a bottle and refill at the clubhouse when needed. Finally, a word on language: staff in golf shops and restaurants often speak English, but a simple “Bonjour” and “Merci” go a long way. The atmosphere is relaxed yet refined—exactly what you’d expect of the Riviera.

Where to Play Near Saint-Tropez

Within an hour to an hour and a half of Saint-Tropez, you’ll find a compelling mix of coastal panoramas and inland tests. Access policies evolve, so check the latest visitor information directly with each club. Here are standout options to consider.

Golf Club Saint-Tropez (Gassin)

Set amid cork oaks and maquis just inland from the gulf, this exclusive club unites privacy with sophisticated design. The course blends broad, inviting landing areas with approaches that demand control into subtly contoured greens. Elevation shifts offer regular glimpses of sparkling water in the distance, while native vegetation shapes strategy and frames the lines off the tee. Conditioning is meticulous, with fast, true-putting surfaces. It’s also a venue where placement is often better than power—laying back to a favorite yardage can save shots on firm summer turf. As access is typically restricted, verify current policies before planning a round.

Golf de Beauvallon (Grimaud)

Stretching along the bay opposite Saint-Tropez, Beauvallon is beloved for sea views and a gentle, old-world character. The routing flows across low hills, where fairways tilt toward the water and cross breezes challenge your club selection. While not overly long, it can be tricky when pins tuck behind bunkers and greens firm up in the sun. Expect a calm, coastal ambiance—quiet fairways lined with umbrella pines, the occasional olive tree guarding a line into the green, and the soothing sense that the Mediterranean is always just over your shoulder. It’s a pleasure to walk, and playful enough to keep you coming back for one more loop.

Golf de Sainte-Maxime (Sainte-Maxime)

Perched above the gulf, Sainte-Maxime delights with drama: elevated tees, plunging fairways, and sweeping panoramas that reward those who stop to take them in. The course suits players who can shape shots both ways and hold their nerve when a sloping fairway urges a fade or draw. Distance control on approach is vital—greens sit on shelves or tuck just beyond ridges, with a premium on landing angles. It’s a course that asks you to think in three dimensions, accounting for elevation, wind, and firm summer turf. A buggy is popular given the terrain, but even from a cart path the setting invites a few extra steps to relish the views.

GOLF UP (Grimaud)

For focused practice or a quick round, this modern facility is a treasure. The short course puts wedge and putter under the microscope, with cleverly designed holes that punish loose distance control yet encourage creativity around the green. The expansive, contemporary range—with generous bays and technology-supported targets—makes grooving a new move both fun and efficient. It’s ideal for families, beginners, or single-digit players chasing a sharper short game. If you like to pair a championship 18 with a refinement session the next morning, this is your Riviera laboratory.

Golf de Roquebrune (Roquebrune-sur-Argens)

Located to the northeast of Saint-Tropez, Roquebrune winds over hills with scenic punch: mountain silhouettes inland, glimmers of blue seaward. The routing capitalizes on elevation, delivering thrilling tee shots and approaches to perched greens that require precise trajectory control. Bunkering is strategic, not just decorative, and the greens offer enough movement to reward confident lag putting. It’s a course where local knowledge pays—learning which side of the fairway opens up the approach can save a club or two. The overall vibe balances challenge with charm, making it a satisfying day out for mid-handicappers and better players alike.

Golf de Barbaroux (Brignoles)

Inland and set among fragrant forest, Barbaroux is a serious test with a reputation for bold architecture and strategic depth. Water comes into play thoughtfully, not gratuitously, and there’s often more room off the tee than first appears—though angles matter. Expect strong visuals: risk-reward doglegs, greens angled to favor a particular side of the fairway, and tee shots that invite commitment. The course rewards modern ball-striking without punishing shorter hitters who manage the routing intelligently. Conditioning is typically excellent, and for many golfers this is the most complete competitive examination within a comfortable day’s reach of Saint-Tropez.

Terre Blanche Golf (Tourrettes)

Though a longer drive inland, Terre Blanche repays the journey with immaculate presentation and two distinctive 18s. The championship routing emphasizes length, water features, and exacting approaches that ask you to flight irons decisively. The sister course is more technical, with varied elevation and a premium on placement and short-game imagination. Practice facilities here are top-tier—ideal for dialing in distances before a demanding round. If you appreciate a polished, modern golf environment surrounded by untouched nature, this venue will likely become a highlight of your trip.

Golf de Valescure (Saint-Raphaël)

Historic and tree-lined, Valescure offers a different cadence—less about raw length, more about precision and tempo. Mature pines shape holes into corridors where swinging within yourself produces better results than chasing extra yards. Approaches reward a ball flight that lands softly, and the greens, while fair, can be slippery when dry. The setting feels intimate and serene, with a classic parkland flavor adapted to Mediterranean light and air. It’s an excellent choice if you enjoy the strategic simplicity of older designs, where finding the fairway remains the surest path to a good score.

Signature Views and Memorable Holes

Ask golfers about standout moments near Saint-Tropez and you’ll hear similar themes: the thrill of launching a drive from a high tee at Sainte-Maxime as the gulf shimmers below; Beauvallon’s graceful holes that seem to tiptoe toward the water; a nerve-testing approach at Barbaroux where the pin sits just beyond a glittering hazard; or the crisp, elevated par threes at Roquebrune that demand conviction in the wind. Even short-game lovers wax lyrical about GOLF UP’s tiny greens and the satisfaction of nipping a wedge to a back pin on firm turf. Scenic vantage points are everywhere—take a breath, take a photo, then commit to the shot.

Strategy for Mediterranean Terrain

Riviera golf rewards golfers who adapt quickly. Fairways can be firm in summer, which means both extra roll and the need to land approach shots a touch short. Let the ground be your ally: play bump-and-runs when appropriate, and favor a lower, controlled trajectory on breezy days. On sloped fairways, anticipate sidehill lies—set your feet, align to the slope, and trust a swing that mirrors the terrain. Around the greens, options abound: lofted pitches if there’s a tier to carry, or putter from off the fringe when the apron is tight and fast. Above all, accept that a “perfect” yardage is rare; embrace artistic solutions, not only textbook ones.

Practice Makes Perfect: Ranges and Academies

If you arrive with swing thoughts, you’ll find plenty of places to refine them. GOLF UP offers a contemporary practice experience ideal for honing wedges, driver, and everything between, while several 18-hole clubs provide well-maintained ranges and short-game areas to warm up properly before the first tee. Early mornings are usually calm and uncrowded on the practice tee—prime time for a structured session. Prioritize distance control into the wind, nailing half and three-quarter wedges to specific targets. Then transition to the putting green, focusing on pace: coastal greens in the sun will reward a confident stroke and smart leave more than a line-perfect but timid roll.

Clubhouse Culture and Cuisine

Clubhouses on the Côte d’Azur embrace a distinctly Provençal sensibility. Expect airy terraces, seasonal menus, and an emphasis on fresh, vibrant flavors: grilled fish, summer salads with local herbs, and light desserts that pair well with an afternoon espresso. After a round, many golfers linger for an open-faced tartine or a plate of charcuterie and cheese. A glass of local rosé is customary for celebratory toasts—though if you’re driving, consider sparkling water with citrus or a low-sugar tonic over ice. The club restaurant is where stories of the day’s putts are told and retold, laughter carries, and the spirit of Riviera leisure comes into its own.

Playing With Family or Mixed-Ability Groups

The region is well-suited to groups with different experience levels. A full 18 at a hillside course can be paired with a short-course session or range practice for newer golfers. Many clubs offer multiple tee boxes; choosing the right set creates a shared pace where everyone can enjoy the day. If you’re mentoring a beginner, consider an alternate-shot nine on a quiet afternoon: you’ll keep things moving while creating a team feeling. Non-golfers often love walking a few holes for the views before heading to the terrace; just remember that many clubs require appropriate footwear and adherence to on-course etiquette even for spectators.

Tee Times, Handicaps, and What to Expect at Check-in

Demand rises in summer and during holiday periods, so booking tee times in advance is prudent. Many clubs request a handicap certificate, especially for peak slots, with common guidelines around mid-30s handicaps or lower for certain times. Arrive at least 30 minutes before your tee time to check in, stretch, and roll a few putts. For buggies or trolleys, ask about course policies—some layouts are cart-path only after rain or during maintenance windows. Scorecards typically list both meters and yards; greens are often stimped to a pace that rewards an assertive strike but penalizes downhill second-guessing. Lastly, respect local rules on slow play and course care: repair pitch marks, fill divots, and rake bunkers generously.

A Three-Day Golf Circuit Around the Gulf

Day 1: Ease into Riviera golf with Golf de Beauvallon. Book a morning tee time to enjoy gentle breezes and the serenity of the bay. Focus on placement off the tee, then treat yourself to a leisurely lunch at the clubhouse terrace. In the afternoon, stroll a nearby coastal path or browse a Provençal market. If energy allows, head to the practice green for a short putting session to calibrate pace for the days ahead.

Day 2: Turn up the drama at Golf de Sainte-Maxime. Warm up early, then savor the elevated tees and panoramic approaches. Play a conservative strategy on sloping fairways: fairway wood or hybrid from the tee can set up better angles than driver. After your round, wind down with a light, late lunch and a swim at a local beach. In the early evening, a gentle stretching routine will help you recover from the hillside walk and prepare for a more demanding inland test.

Day 3: Venture to Golf de Barbaroux or Terre Blanche, depending on your appetite for challenge. At Barbaroux, commit on tee shots and aim for the safe side of greens with water in play. At Terre Blanche, build a plan on the range before the first tee—know your three reliable tee shots and two go-to recovery shots. Post-round, keep the afternoon unhurried. A quiet drink, a notebook to capture course impressions, and perhaps a twilight walk: it’s the Riviera’s way of extending the pleasure of a great golf day.

Sustainability on the Riviera: Water, Wildlife, and Wise Design

Golf in Mediterranean climates must balance playability with stewardship, and many clubs in the region have embraced measures that make ecological and economic sense. Drought-tolerant grasses, targeted irrigation, and wetland buffers help courses stay green where it counts—the playing corridors—while reducing water use. Semi-rough and out-of-play areas often double as habitat for birds and pollinators, enhancing biodiversity. As a guest, you can contribute by keeping trolleys and buggies to designated routes, avoiding sensitive areas, and using refillable bottles instead of single-use plastics. The payoff is a landscape that remains healthy and distinctive, season after season.

What to Pack for Côte d’Azur Golf

Lightweight, breathable golf apparel; a spare shirt for afternoon rounds.
Collared tops and soft-spike shoes to meet clubhouse and course standards.
Wide-brim hat or cap, high-SPF sunscreen, and sunglasses with good UV protection.
Summer-weight rain shell for shoulder-season showers; a thin mid-layer for breezy mornings.
Gloves suitable for warm, occasionally humid conditions—consider bringing two.
Refillable water bottle; electrolyte tablets for hot days.
Rangefinder or GPS device; many courses have subtle depth changes into greens.
Small first-aid kit with blister plasters; walking the hills can test even broken-in shoes.
Travel-sized brush and towel to keep grooves and grips clean in dry, dusty weather.
Handicap proof and a few euros in cash for small purchases where cards aren’t preferred.

Getting Around: Drives, Parking, and Timing

Driving times vary with seasonal traffic and time of day. Courses closest to Saint-Tropez—Beauvallon, GOLF UP, and Sainte-Maxime—are typically 15 to 35 minutes away, while inland championship venues can range from one hour to over ninety minutes. During busy periods, set out early and build in a cushion; an extra twenty minutes of margin turns a stressful commute into a relaxed arrival. Most clubs have ample on-site parking; some hillside courses route traffic through winding access roads, so approach with patience and mind posted speed limits. Aim to arrive early enough to loosen up and acclimate to the green speeds—Riviera putting surfaces often run quicker than they look.

Beyond the Fairways: Leisure Ideas Between Rounds

One joy of golfing near Saint-Tropez is how easily a round merges with the area’s wider pleasures. Explore coastal paths that thread through pines and past coves of startling clarity. Wander village squares lined with plane trees, where pétanque games and café chatter drift in the air. Visit vineyards in the hills and learn how salt air and sunshine influence the character of local rosés. On market days, browse for olives, tapenades, and fragrant soaps that bring the region’s essence home with you. If the day runs long, savor the late golden hour by the sea—few places make a sunset feel so unhurried and so complete.

Health and Heat: Smart Habits for Summer Golf

On warm days, a few simple practices preserve performance and enjoyment. Hydrate early and consistently—don’t wait for thirst to catch up. Rotate sun protection at the turn: another layer of SPF, fresh water, and a light snack with electrolytes. Favor shade when waiting on tees, and keep a mini-cool towel in your bag for the back nine. In the swing, lighten your grip and shorten your routine slightly to maintain focus when the air is still. Heat can invite impatience; counter it with deliberate breath, a measured cadence, and the Riviera knack for savoring the moment.

Final Thoughts: The Character of Saint-Tropez Golf

Golf near Saint-Tropez wears its luxury lightly. It appears in the quiet perfection of a green rolled just right, the care with which a fairway frames a view, and the hospitality of a terrace where time seems to slow. The courses invite you to play your game—clever or bold, technical or instinctive—and reward a mindset tuned to the landscape. Whether you choose a seaside classic, a hillside panorama, or an inland examination, you’ll find golf that amplifies rather than distracts from the Côte d’Azur’s essential pleasures. That is the region’s signature: rounds that feel as beautifully made as the days that hold them.

Find your perfect base among our Sainte-Maxime villas: https://www.azurselect.com/search/holiday/sainte-maxime/provence-alpes-cote-dazur/france