Between the deep blue of the Mediterranean and the wooded hills of the Var, Saint-Aygulf and Les Issambres offer an exceptional seaside setting, much sought-after by customers looking for tranquillity, refinement and unspoilt nature. Just minutes from Saint-Tropez and Sainte-Maxime, these two neighboring destinations are home to some of the French Riviera’s finest beaches, ideal for a family getaway or an elegant waterside getaway.
Discover the most beautiful beaches of Saint-Aygulf and Les Issambres:
Plage des Esclamandes in Saint-Aygulf: a rare stretch of sand on the French Riviera
Considered the largest beach in Saint-Aygulf, the Plage des Esclamandes is seductive for its sandy expanse, shallow waters and easy access. Stretching over 800 meters, it offers a variety of areas suitable for families, couples looking for peace and quiet or water sports enthusiasts.
Its fine golden sand, uncommon on this rocky stretch of coastline, makes it particularly popular with discerning holidaymakers. Pay parking is available in the immediate vicinity, as are several snack bars and restaurants. Demarcated areas allow you to kitesurf, paddle or jet-ski in complete safety, while families with children can enjoy the supervised swimming areas.
For a more exclusive experience, private service providers offer deckchair hire, with drinks and umbrellas, right on the seafront.
The confidential coves of Saint-Aygulf: luxury and discretion
To the east of Plage des Esclamandes, several small coves follow one another, hidden between the rocks. Accessible on foot via the coastal path, they appeal to lovers of privacy and aesthetes in search of an authentic natural setting.
These wild beaches, often little visited during the week, offer total immersion in the Mediterranean scenery: umbrella pines, ochre rocks, crystal-clear waters and absolute calm. Some coves have no facilities, but their raw charm is ideal for a contemplative break or a quiet swim.
La Plage de la Gaillarde: the family jewel of Les Issambres
Located west of Les Issambres, Plage de la Gaillarde is a golden sandy beach appreciated for its family atmosphere and calm waters. Bordered by a number of refined restaurants and straw huts, it combines accessibility and comfort, without ever becoming overcrowded.
Services include surveillance in high season, showers and sanitary facilities, as well as easy access for people with reduced mobility. Families will appreciate the gentle slope and clarity of the water, ideal for observing the seabed with just a mask.
For a full day with your feet in the sand, you can enjoy lunch in one of the establishments with panoramic views, or rent a table from a local beach club for a sunset aperitif.
La Plage de San Peïre: elegance and liveliness in the heart of Les Issambres
The main beach in the center of Les Issambres, San Peïre, is a chic, accessible destination where families meet yachtsmen and vacationers in search of the dolce vita. Just a stone’s throw from the port and the Provencal market, it enjoys a lively environment without being noisy, and offers several dining and shopping options in the immediate vicinity.
Modern facilities make it a comfortable beach: deckchairs for hire, showers, lifeguards, children’s games and even a beach library in summer. It’s also an excellent starting point for walks along the coastal path linking the commune’s main beaches.
Plage de la Garonnette: an unspoilt setting on the outskirts of Sainte-Maxime
On the border between Les Issambres and Sainte-Maxime, La Garonnette beach offers a wilder, more peaceful atmosphere. Framed by dense vegetation and featuring lighter-colored sand, it appeals to lovers of nature and tranquility. Less crowded than its neighbors, it’s ideal for a siesta in the shade of a pine tree, or a peaceful swim in the early morning.
Free parking is available just a few meters from the beach, and a short footpath provides easy access. The nearby port of Les Issambres makes it easy to arrive by boat or shuttle from Saint-Tropez or Sainte-Maxime, for a car-free day at the seaside.
Practical tips for a successful seaside holiday
- Avoid rush hour: the beaches are quieter between 8 and 10 am, or after 6 pm.
- Parking: use parking lots close to the city center in the morning to avoid summer traffic jams.
- Exclusive services: for a top-of-the-range experience, reserve your deckchairs in advance at establishments offering beach + lunch packages.
- Safety: keep an eye on the swimming flags and equip young children with armbands or life jackets.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for lively, fully-equipped beaches or discreet, out-of-the-way coves, Saint-Aygulf and Les Issambres offer a unique seaside variety, perfectly suited to the expectations of a discerning clientele. Each beach has its own character, rhythm and charm – it’s up to you to choose the one that suits your vacation mood. And why not discover them all during your stay?
