The Best Beaches of La Croix-Valmer and Gigaro

Between fragrant pine forests and the turquoise waters of Cap Lardier, La Croix-Valmer shelters some of the most preserved beaches on the French Riviera. Far from the bustle of Pampelonne, this stretch of Var coastline cultivates a discreet form of luxury: fine sand, secret coves and private beaches with refined tables.

Gigaro Beach: the jewel of La Croix-Valmer

Stretching nearly 800 metres, Gigaro beach is the most iconic in the commune. Facing due south, it offers clear water and golden sand that rival the finest beaches of the peninsula. From Villa Canopy, it is just three minutes by car — or fifteen minutes on foot via the trail that descends through the pine forest.

The beach is divided into three distinct zones:

• The public section, in the centre, perfect for families with its shallow waters
• The private beaches to the west, where reserving a lounger transforms the day into an experience
• The wild coves to the east, accessible via the coastal path towards Cap Lardier

Gigaro’s private beach clubs

Three addresses define Gigaro’s reputation among Riviera insiders.

La Pinède Plage cultivates a natural elegance with its light wood loungers and beige parasols arranged beneath the parasol pines. The Mediterranean cuisine is executed with care: heirloom tomato salad, grilled sea bass, Provence rosé. Reservation essential in July and August.

La Cabane Méditerranée offers a more relaxed experience with a bohemian-chic atmosphere. The address is particularly popular at lunch for its sea bream carpaccio and natural wine list.

Lilly of the Valley, the five-star property facing the beach, opens its private beach to non-residents on reservation. It is Gigaro’s most luxurious experience, with impeccable service and a menu signed by a Michelin-starred chef.

The coastal trail and the coves of Cap Lardier

For lovers of authenticity, the coastal trail starting at the eastern end of Gigaro is one of the finest walks on the French Riviera. In under thirty minutes you reach a succession of preserved coves where you can bathe in total privacy.

Jovat beach is the first you encounter. Its mix of sand and pebbles and crystalline waters make it an ideal snorkelling spot. Brouis beach, further along, offers an almost surreal setting with its red rocks plunging into translucent sea.

The trail continues to Brouis point and Cap Lardier, classified as a Protected Natural Area, where bathers are rare even in August. Bring sturdy shoes, water and a picnic: there are no shops nearby.

The legendary beaches of the Saint-Tropez peninsula

Fifteen minutes from Villa Canopy, the Saint-Tropez peninsula concentrates the most famous beaches on the Riviera.

Pampelonne

Pampelonne Bay stretches five kilometres of blonde sand between Ramatuelle and Saint-Tropez. A dozen private beaches succeed one another, each with its identity:

• Club 55 — the institution opened in 1955, still beloved by Parisian society
• Nikki Beach — for a festive atmosphere by the sea
• La Réserve à la Plage — relaxed elegance by Michel Reybier
• Byblos Beach — hotel refinement on the sand
• Loulou Ramatuelle — the address of the summer, book a month ahead

The confidential beaches

Minutes from Gigaro, other gems deserve the detour. L’Escalet beach in Ramatuelle, protected within the Coastal Conservatory domain, offers rare authenticity. Briande beach, accessible only on foot via the coastal trail, is one of the few entirely wild beaches still accessible in the area.

Practical tips for enjoying the beaches

Best time : mid-May to late September. The water reaches 24-25°C in August. June and September offer the best compromise between warmth and tranquillity.

Preferred hours : arrive before 11am or after 4pm to avoid crowds in July-August. The beaches are often magnificent at day’s end, with golden light and calm water.

Reservations : in high season, private beaches sell out weeks in advance. Villa Canopy’s concierge service can secure tables at the best addresses.

Parking : Gigaro parking is paid (€5/day) and fills quickly in summer. From Villa Canopy, a private shuttle service can be arranged on request.

The Villa Canopy experience

Three minutes by car from Gigaro beaches and less than fifteen minutes from Saint-Tropez, Villa Canopy is the ideal starting point to explore the finest beaches of the French Riviera. Our private mooring buoy off Gigaro also allows you to anchor your boat and walk back to the villa in minutes — a rare freedom on this stretch of coast.

Each stay comes with concierge service handling reservations, transfers and personalised recommendations according to your preferences.