Top 10 coves in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez: the complete boat guide
- 5 hours ago
- 3 min read
The Gulf of Saint-Tropez is one of the richest nautical territories in the Mediterranean. Within a 20-mile radius of the Quai Claude Meiffret, dozens of coves follow one another along a coastline that alternates pink granite, maritime pines and white sand beaches. Some are famous, others known only to local sailors. Here is our selection of the 10 most beautiful.
1. The crique de Briande: the unmissable
A Natura 2000 protected site, the crique de Briande is the most celebrated cove in the gulf and for good reason. Absolute water clarity, posidonia seagrass beds, a white pebble beach and the absence of any road or footpath make it a protected sanctuary. Anchoring on the seagrass is prohibited and mooring buoys are available. Distance from Saint-Tropez: 7 nautical miles, 25 to 30 minutes.
2. Pampelonne beach: the legend
Four kilometres of fine sand, legendary beach clubs including Club 55 and Nikki Beach, shallow waters ideal for swimming. Arriving at Pampelonne by boat is a completely different experience from driving: you come in from the sea, anchor, and dinghy ashore. No traffic, no parking. Distance: 4 nautical miles, 15 to 20 minutes.
3. Baie des Canebiers: the gentlest
Ten minutes from the marina, the Baie des Canebiers is the ideal cove for families and first-timers. Shallow water, sandy bottom, virtually no swell. The perfect first swim stop of the day before pushing on to more distant destinations. Distance: 2 nautical miles, 10 minutes.
4. Cap Camarat: the spectacular cliffs
Cap Camarat is the southernmost point of the Saint-Tropez peninsula. Its pink granite cliffs plunge directly into intense blue water. The Camarat lighthouse, the second most powerful in France at 58 metres focal height, dominates the skyline. The coves at the foot of the cape are accessible only by sea and offer some of the finest marine life in the gulf. Distance: 8 nautical miles, 30 to 35 minutes.
5. L'Escalet: the wild one
L'Escalet is one of the rare beaches in the gulf accessible both by road and by sea. From the water, the small rocky coves surrounding it offer a wild and unspoilt setting. Sandy bottom with some seagrass, very clear water, no jet skis. Distance: 10 nautical miles, 35 to 40 minutes.
6. Gigaro: pines to the waterline
The Gigaro beach is bordered by maritime pines that reach right to the shore, creating an atmosphere of shade and coolness rare on the Var coast. From the water, the micro-coves to the north and south of the main beach are almost inaccessible any other way. Warm water, mixed sand and rock bottom, excellent snorkelling. Distance: 12 nautical miles, 40 to 45 minutes.
7. Andati: the best-kept secret
Between Pampelonne and Briande, this small cove with no official name is known only to local sailors. Flat rocks, glass-clear water, two or three boats maximum even in August. It is the spot that Octopussy skippers keep for the most curious clients. Sandy bottom at 4 metres, easy anchoring. Distance: 5.5 nautical miles, 20 minutes.
8. Calanque de la Bonne Terrasse: below the lighthouse
Tucked directly below Cap Camarat, this calanque offers the most dramatic view in the gulf: the lighthouse overhead, cliffs dropping vertically into the water, the Mediterranean stretching to the horizon. Depths of 8 to 12 metres, remarkable clarity. Freedivers find exceptionally rich marine life here. Distance: 9 nautical miles, 35 minutes.
9. The Calanques de l'Esterel: beyond the gulf
Technically outside the Gulf of Saint-Tropez but reachable as a day trip, the Calanques de l'Esterel offer a completely different landscape: volcanic red and orange rock plunging into turquoise water. A total change of scenery less than 45 minutes away by fast boat. Distance: 20 nautical miles, 45 to 60 minutes.
10. Baie de Cavalaire: open water
The Baie de Cavalaire, a wide sweep of coastline at the southern end of the gulf, is less well known to Saint-Tropez visitors. Yet its waters are among the calmest and clearest in the area. Its long fine sand beach and relative lack of crowds even in high season make it an ideal alternative to Pampelonne for families. Distance: 12 nautical miles, 40 to 45 minutes.
How to reach these coves
All of these coves are accessible from the Quai Claude Meiffret in Saint-Tropez aboard the boats in the Octopussy fleet. The professional skipper included on premium yachts knows every one of these spots and adapts the itinerary in real time to the weather, crowd levels and your preferences. Booking: +33 6 10 25 61 26 or WhatsApp on the same number.