Part of our Menton travel guide  — explore all our Menton posts.

Nestled right on the border of France and Italy, the sun-drenched town of Menton is a paradise of pastel-hued buildings and citrus groves. Its ultimate summer escape is Plage des Sablettes, a crescent-shaped beach of fine gravel and sand lapped by calm, shallow turquoise waters. Framed by the towering historic old town on one side and the dramatic Italian Alps on the other, this beach offers the perfect blend of Riviera glamour and laid-back coastal charm without the overwhelming crowds of Nice or Cannes.

Your Perfect Beach Day Itinerary

Begin your morning early with a refreshing swim in the calm, glassy waters of Plage des Sablettes before the mid-day heat sets in. By mid-day, dry off and walk along the Promenade de la Mer to choose from one of the casual sea-facing restaurants for a lunch of fresh Mediterranean seafood. After lunch, take a leisurely stroll into the shade of the historic Old Town, climbing the winding cobblestone steps.

In the late afternoon, head back to the waterfront for a refreshing Italian gelato. End your perfect summer day on the eastern rock jetty of the beach, watching the sunset light paint the iconic yellow and orange houses of Menton in deep crimson hues.

The Experience

A summer afternoon at Plage des Sablettes is a feast for the senses. The air carries the refreshing scent of salt water mixed with the sweet fragrance of Menton's famous lemons. You will hear the gentle, soothing sound of waves rolling over the soft gravel, accompanied by the distant chatter of locals enjoying the sun. The sight of the yellow, pink, and terracotta facades rising vertically above the blue water is nothing short of a living postcard.

Nearby Pairings

Make the most of your trip to Menton by exploring these incredible nearby attractions. First, climb the steps to the majestic Basilique Saint-Michel Archange, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture overlooking the bay. Next, visit the Jean Cocteau Museum - Bastion, housed in a 17th-century stone fort. Finally, wander through the lush Val Rahmeh-Menton Botanical Garden to see exotic subtropical plants thriving in Menton's unique microclimate.

How to Visit Smoothly

Plage des Sablettes is easily accessible via the TER regional train from Nice or Monaco, with Menton Garavan station being the closest stop. The beach is public and free, equipped with outdoor showers, public restrooms, and several lifeguarded areas during the summer months. Arrive before 10:00 AM in July and August to secure a prime spot on the sand close to the water.

Photo Notes

The best spot to photograph Menton's famous old town skyline is from the long stone jetty at the eastern end of Plage des Sablettes. Walk out onto the rocks just before sunset; the low sun will illuminate the colorful facades beautifully. Use a polarizing filter to enhance the vibrant turquoise color of the water and cut down on surface glare during the bright afternoon.

Quick FAQ

Q: Is Plage des Sablettes a sandy or pebbly beach?

A: It is a mixture of fine gravel and sand, which is much softer and easier to walk on than the large pebbles found in Nice.

Q: Are there private beach clubs with sun loungers for rent?

A: Yes, a portion of the beach is occupied by private beach clubs where you can rent loungers, umbrellas, and order food directly to your bed.

Q: Is the water safe for young children to swim in?

A: Yes, the beach is protected by a series of breakwaters, making the water exceptionally calm, shallow, and safe for families.

Q: How far is the beach from the main train station?

A: It is about a 15-to-20-minute flat walk from the main Menton train station, or a shorter 10-minute walk from the Menton Garavan station.