Sainte-Maxime
Charming seaside town with wonderful areas for walking and hiking
Sheltered from the winds by hills that rise behind the coast, the popular beach resort of Sainte Maxime sits on the coast between Frejus and Saint Tropez.
In the Var, Sainte-Maxime is a pleasant example of a resort with a lively town, a busy marina and a string of fine beaches. The mild climate and the beauty of the village attracts many tourists, painters, poets and writers. The old town is filled by lively pedestrian streets, beautiful gardens and a large pier with a wonderful panorama of the Gulf.
The emphasis in this town is on today: today's sun, today's fun and perhaps more of that tomorrow. Visitors jam the roads, fill the parking lots to the last place and flock to the beaches. During sun breaks, they stroll along the many beach and sun-themed shops or flop down in one of the sidewalk cafés along the boulevard. Others venture into the older part of town which has been nicely renovated and spruced up with boutiques filled with Provençal goodies and a large choice of restaurants. The narrow, winding streets and alleys are a great way to cool off the summer heat.
The most demanding holiday makers will love the town beaches and those in the direction of Saint Tropez such as the beach of La Croisette. The most popular are located west of Sainte Maxime.
History & Culture in Sainte-Maxime
Sainte-Maxime's history dates back to the early Middle Ages and a monastery with its name that has now disappeared. There are very few signs in town of an early history, though close to the port the Tour Carrée des Dames stands prominently. It was constructed as a defensive tower in the late Middle Ages by the monks of the islands of Lérins. Now, it functions as the museum of local tradition and history.
A very pleasant town, with a vibrant beach resort, a busy port, daily markets and a few lovely old buildings in the small historic centre. The pedestrian street is lined with bars, restaurants and boutiques, and it comes alive on summer evenings with music and a good mix of tourists and locals. Admittedly, there's not a tremendous amount to see when it comes to history or architecture, but Sainte-Maxime is above all a town to relax in, spending long days at the beach, eating at nice restaurants, wandering around the pretty port or having a cocktail at sunset looking over the Gulf of Saint Tropez.
Sights & Attractions in Sainte-Maxime
Sainte-Maxime is more of a beach resort than a history-buff's destination, but there are a few traces of the town's medieval past, including the beautiful 15th century town hall (mairie). The Tour Carrée was built in the 16th century by monks to fend off invaders,often maruading pirates from Saint Tropez across the bay. There's also a small folk museum in the Tour Carée, as well as a battery of cannons facing the Gulf de Saint Tropez.
Sights in Sainte-Maxime
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Musee d'Histoire Maritime
Recently renovated, this modern museum is located in the dungeon of the village's Citadel, allowing visitors to discover the true identity of Saint-Tropez as a maritime city through its last 500 years of history.
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La Maison des Papillons - Butterfly Museum
The Butterfly Museum is located in the old town, spread across two floors, the collection houses an enormous quantity of different species. There are over 35,000 specimens, including rare types from Africa and South America.
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Musee de l'Annonciade - Art Museum
The Annonciade museum was created in 1922 and holds impressive art work dating from 1890 to 1950, including some of the greatest French masterminds such as Matisse, Derain and Marquet.
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Musee de la Gendarmerie et du Cinema
As well as discovering the many cinematic influences in the region you are invited to explore the incredible history of the 'Gendarmes de Saint-Tropez'
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La Citadelle
As you climb uphill past all the restaurant lined streets, you get to the impressive 17th century Citadel overlooking the village of Saint-Tropez.
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Chapelle Sainte-Anne, Ramatuelle
La Chapelle Sainte-Anne was built in 1618 to thank God for sparing Saint-Tropez from the plague. Located on the hill of Mont Pécoulet, this simple building boasts a traditional Provençal style and is surrounded by cypress and pine trees.
Beaches in Sainte-Maxime
Sainte-Maxime has lovely wide, white-sand beaches stretching in both directions, with lots of public space as well as private beach clubs with restaurants. The beaches of Sainte Maxime offer every watersport you could hope for, including parasailing, jet skiing, sailing and water skiing.
Sainte-Maxime is well known for its diving, with sunken submarines, yachts and torpedo boats to explore, as well as some rocky underwater topography and marine life. There are also fishing excursions off the coast.
Beaches in Saint-Tropez
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La Ponche Beach
Plage de la Ponche and its neighbour Plage de la Fontanette are two lovely beaches which you can access directly from the heart of the village.
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Graniers Beach
Plage des Graniers is a beautiful, small sandy bay surrounded by greenery and a few Provençal villas.
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Bouillabaisse Beach
La Bouillabaisse is a more low-key option to the swanky beach clubs on Pampelonne beach and is situated closer to the town of Saint Tropez.
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Canoubiers Beach
This beach is situated around the coastline from Plage des Graniers, and sits close to the main road of Route des Salins, so access from St-Tropez town is fairly easy.
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Salins Beach
Located north of the infamous stretch known as Pampelonne beach and about 7km from the town of Saint-Tropez, Plage des Salins is a little slice of wilderness.
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Pampelonne Beach
Pampelonne Beach is the beach most people associate with Saint-Tropez. This is where you will find the A-listers, the famous beach clubs, and the super yachts resting in the bay.
Dining in Sainte-Maxime
Restaurants in Sainte-Maxime
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The Pationata Restaurant
This restaurant is situated within the luxury Hotel de Paris and is run by the Michelin Starred chef Philippe Guerin.
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L'Isoletta Restaurant
The restaurant of the Bastide de Saint-Tropez hotel is run by Sardinian chef, Alessandro Caria, and his team.
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Cucina at Byblos Restaurant
The restaurant Cucina Byblos, welcomes guests warmly to a colourful and resolutely contemporary setting, in which a relaxed atmosphere reigns supreme.
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Colette Restaurant
Renowned for its fine and distinguished cuisine, the talented chef creates tasty southern flavoured compositions served on the luxury terrace.
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La Ponche Restaurant
The gourmet restaurant’s secluded dining room offers a splendid view on Saint-Tropez’s bay. In total secrecy, the hosts can dream along as they admire beautiful landscapes that resemble works of art.
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Les Toits Lounge
A magical place that gives you the feeling of being suspended between sky and sea, overlooking the sunbaked rooftops of Saint-Tropez and the wonderful Mediterranean Sea.
Events in Sainte-Maxime
For me, the main attraction in Sainte-Maxime is the covered market that opens daily in summer and only mornings (except Monday) in winter. There you find excellent quality in local produce and products, fishmongers, bakers and flower shops. On Thursday morning there is also an open-air market.
Events in Sainte-Maxime
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Le Challenge Interclubs Regatta, Golfe de Saint-Tropez
For four weekends throughout the year, four sailing clubs based on the Bay of Saint-Tropez compete at the Challenge Interclubs.
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Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez Regatta
A famous classic regatta that ends the Mediterranean sailing season, St-Tropez’ late-summer regatta brings in 300 yachts, both ancient and modern, for maritime effervescence.
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La Grande Braderie de Saint Tropez
Envied by many towns, La Grande Braderie de Saint Tropez is, under any circumstances, an event not to be missed.
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Voiles d'Automne Regatta
Between 40 to 60 yachts participate, which despite the at times variable weather conditions, is always a success.
Things to do in Sainte-Maxime
While Saint Maxime is primarily a beach resort, there are plenty of other activities on offer. The surrounding hills are wonderful for walking, mountain-biking and horse-riding, and you can pick up the long-range hiking trail 'The Balcony of the Côte d'Azur' just 10kms north of town. There's also a coastal path for bike-riding (see our Riviera biking guide here.) Those looking for sporting activities could use the nearby tennis or golf facilities, or head to the clay pigeon shooting range just outside town.
Sainte-Maxime is also home to Aqualand, the Riviera's largest waterpark; and there's also a pleasant Botanical Garden for walking and picnics.
This area is good golfing country, and those visiting Sainte-Maxime have several golf courses to choose between. The 18-hole, par 72 course at Golf de Sainte-Maxime has wonderful views across the coast and mountains from above the town and a quite challenging, hilly course. The excellent Golfe de Beauvallon is two miles out of Sainte-Maxime very close to the sea, offering a moderate to hard 70 par, 18-hole game with stunning views of the Gulf of Saint Tropez. There is also the Golfe Club Saint Tropez a bit further afield at Gassin, a fairly exclusive place with a par 71, 18-hole course set in countryside of hills, forest, vineyards and sea. For more information, see our Golfing Pages.
Things To Do in Sainte-Maxime
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Aqualand Waterpark, Sainte Maxime
This is probably the most family orientated waterpark on the Cote d'Azur. With several friendly slides, a fun pool, food and drinks, ice creams, and shopping all at hand.
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One Week Yacht Charter Itineraries
Experience the French Riviera your way with 212 yachts, using one of their sample itineraries or with a specialised itinerary created just for you, based on what you like and don't like, as well as their own expertise.
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Coastal Boat Trip
This is a great way to come and discover the beautiful village of Saint Tropez. Sit back and relax aboard the Brigantin II boat as the experienced crew takes you on a memorable one hour guided boat tour. During the cruise you will be shown the old village, the famous beaches and the spectacular millionaire's bay. A full commentary is available in English.
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Private Coastal Boat Trip
This is a great way to come and discover the beautiful village of Saint Tropez. Sit back and relax aboard the Brigantin II boat as the experienced crew takes you on a memorable trip around the Bay of Canoubiers.
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Gulf of Saint Tropez Boat Trip
Running every Saturday, this trip departs from St Tropez, taking you on a tour to discover the beautiful landscapes around the Gulf of St Tropez.
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Pampelonne & Cap Camarat Boat Trip
Running every Wednesday, this trip departs from St Tropez, taking you on a tour to discover the beautiful landscapes and beaches along the coast.
Nightlife in Sainte-Maxime
This seaside resort has plenty of bars, a sports pub, and a few late-opening clubs in the summer, although those looking for the really glamorous clubs should head down the coast to Saint Tropez to mingle with the champagne and caviar set.
Enjoy the summer vibe in a bar in the pedestrianised street in town, have a cocktail in a beach club or hit the Casino de Barriere for a game of blackjack, roulette or poker. On summer nights there are also free music concerts in the outdoor theatre, as well as fireworks shows.
Bars & Clubs in Sainte-Maxime
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The Atrium Bar
This modern bar is situated within the famous Hotel de Paris which was once graced by stars such Coco Chanel, Jean Cocteau and Clarke Gable.
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White 1921 Bar
Offering a delightful garden, the corner bar is open every evening from 20:00. A cellar of superior champagnes can be tasted by the glass.
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Les Caves du Roy Nightclub
Set within the chic 5 star Byblos hotel is one of the most exclusive night spots in Saint Tropez.
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L'Opera Saint Tropez Restaurant
This new establishment offers visitors a wonderful array of options, from a chilled out Port side coffee or bottle of champagne, to fine dining and delicious seafood delights, and finally live music and dancing in one of the hippest late night bars in the Port.
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Bar du Port
One of the trendiest bars in Saint Tropez, the Bar du Port has been in the Chaix family since 1963, and with the architect Chrisophe Pillet, the owners have recently updated the decor.
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Senequier Restaurant
A favourite with former president Jacques Chirac this café is the perfect place from which to people watch, and the coffee is pretty excellent too.
Hotels in Sainte-Maxime
Hotels in Sainte-Maxime
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Hotel de Paris
This famous hotel is ideally located in the centre of Saint Tropez, and is an invitation to pleasure, luxury and refinement.
Price: €14,357
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Le Y Boutique Hotel
Hidden amongst the narrow streets of the old village, this discrete hotel is right at the foot of the Citadel and only 2 minutes from the Port and La Ponche beach.
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Mas Bellevue Hotel
Minutes from the Pamplonne beaches and the centre of Saint Tropez, discover a charming Provencal farmhouse and its stunning pools and sea views.
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La Garbine Hotel, Pampelonne
The hotel Garbine is ideally located 600 metres from the beautiful beach of Tahiti.
Price: €3,290
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Hostellerie Le Baou Hotel, Ramatuelle
Just 10km from St Tropez amongst the vineyards of the hillside village of Ramatuelle this hotel has flower filler private gardens and an outdoor swimming pool area.
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Chateau de Valmer Spa Hotel, La Croix Valmer
This luxurious sea-side chateau, a former stately house with its winery is an elegant and charming country house which has been restored and re-decorated with care and finesse.
Price: €7,278
How to get to Sainte-Maxime
There are buses connecting Sainte Maxime with Saint Raphael, Saint Tropez and other major towns in the Var.
The closest train station is at Saint-Raphael where you can connect with the major rail line that runs along the Riviera to Italy.
Those travelling from Nice airport can take the Line 20 bus from the airport and change for Sainte-Maxime at nearby Frejus. You can also take a boat between Saint Maxime and Cannes, or Sainte Maxime and Saint Tropez.
Transfers for Saint-Tropez
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Private airport transfers
From Nice airport to Saint-Tropez, they handle the rest. The Côte d’Azur's most trusted private transfers.
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Chabe Airport Transfers
Chabe Transfers are a renowned luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the French Riviera.
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Helicopter Charter Flights
Heli Securite offer transfers on a helicopter from the airport to your yacht or various destinations in and around the Cannes area, St Tropez and Monaco. In addition to this they also service all of the main French ski resorts from their base in Courchevel.
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Acarre Limousine Transfers
Acarre Limousine offers transfers from the airport, train station and other taxi services whether it is from the beach or to a nightclub.
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Private Jet and Helicopter Transfers
With an International fleet of jets and helicopters based across Europe it is quick and easy to get a private charter flight for business, pleasure or an airport transfer.
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Millenium Transport Transfers
For more than 10 years, Millenium Transport has been the leading firm in terms of top-of-the-range transports with driver and provides a high quality of service in order to satisfy the needs and expectations of international clients who make the French Riviera so famous.
Property For Sale in Sainte-Maxime
Property for Sale in Sainte-Maxime
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Apartment for Sale
Panoramic sea view for this 3 bedroom apartment with orivate garden and 3 parkings
Price: €1,300,000
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Villa for Sale
Boasting an exceptional and private waterfront location, within walking distance from the town, this unique propertyis sure to delight you over with its breathtaking panoramic views and its direct proximity to the sea - an extremely rare privilege in Saint-Tropez.
Price: €23,000,000
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Villa for Sale
Contemporary villa with sea view in a secure estate in Sainte-Maxime
Price: €5,490,000