Sablettes Beach
A picturesque rocky beach in Menton, France, offering stunning views of the colorful old town and clear Mediterranean waters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, softer light
Sablettes Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, softer light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque rocky beach in Menton, France, offering stunning views of the colorful old town and clear Mediterranean waters.
"Amazing setting! Beautiful buildings, mountains, beach, & water! Very clean and not over crowded."
🪨 Wear Beach Shoes
The beach is rocky, not sandy. Beach shoes are essential for comfort when walking and swimming.
🔒 Free Lockers Available
A yellow kiosk offers free lockers to secure your valuables while you enjoy the water.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Menton Skyline View
From the water or beach
Gaze back at Menton's colorful buildings cascading down the hillside – a truly iconic Riviera vista.
Crystal Clear Waters
Mediterranean Sea
Take a refreshing dip in the remarkably clear, warm waters, perfect for swimming and enjoying the coastal scenery.
Rocky Beach Charm
The beach itself
Experience the unique texture of this pebble beach, offering a different kind of seaside relaxation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beach Shoes Are a Must!
Timing Your Visit for Views & Fewer Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🪨 Wear Beach Shoes
The beach is rocky, not sandy. Beach shoes are essential for comfort when walking and swimming.
🔒 Free Lockers Available
A yellow kiosk offers free lockers to secure your valuables while you enjoy the water.
🚽 Public Restrooms
Find free public restrooms conveniently located near the beach access stairs.
📸 Capture the Skyline
The view of Menton's colorful buildings from the beach is a must-photograph moment.
Tips
from all over the internet
🪨 Wear Beach Shoes
The beach is rocky, not sandy. Beach shoes are essential for comfort when walking and swimming.
🔒 Free Lockers Available
A yellow kiosk offers free lockers to secure your valuables while you enjoy the water.
🚽 Public Restrooms
Find free public restrooms conveniently located near the beach access stairs.
📸 Capture the Skyline
The view of Menton's colorful buildings from the beach is a must-photograph moment.
🚗 Easy Access from Nice
Take a direct 40-minute train from Nice to Menton for a hassle-free journey to the beach.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sablettes Beach in Menton is praised for its stunning views of the colorful old town and its clear, warm waters, offering a beautiful and free seaside experience. While many enjoy the picturesque setting and lack of crowds (especially in May), some visitors note the beach is rocky, recommending beach shoes, and find the nearby restaurants to be only average.
"A beautiful beach in the town of Menton. Take a dip in the warm crystal clear waters with the old town in the background. When swimming out into the sea, you have a view of Italy on your left, Monaco on your right, and the old town of Menton in the back. Like most beaches in the area, it is rocky, so beach shoes are recommended. There is a yellow round kiosk with free lockers to store your valuables. There is also a free public bathroom in one of the archways, next to the stairs. There are a bunch of restaurants on the promenade but the ones we tried were ok, at best. Read the reviews first."
Max Khaskin
"Amazing setting! Beautiful buildings, mountains, beach, & water! Very clean and not over crowded at least not in May of 2025 :) & it’s free! Lots of places to shop, drink, or eat nearby"
Jamie Tatum
"Not much shade, managed to find a bush. Lovely water, very clear and no waves. Nice views of city. Beach has small rocks, not much sand."
Robin Viilup
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way to reach Sablettes Beach in Menton from Nice is by taking a direct train. The journey typically takes around 40 minutes and offers scenic coastal views.
While driving is possible, parking can be challenging in Menton. Public transport, especially the train, is often recommended for a smoother experience.
Sablettes Beach is located in Menton, which is very close to the Italian border. It's about a 20-minute walk from the border, contributing to the town's Italianate charm.
Yes, the regional train is a popular and convenient option for reaching Menton and its Sablettes Beach from nearby cities like Nice.
For day trips to Menton, including Sablettes Beach, trains are highly recommended due to their frequency and scenic routes along the French Riviera.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Sablettes Beach is a public beach and is free to access. You can enjoy the sun, sea, and views without any admission cost.
As a public beach, Sablettes Beach does not have specific opening or closing hours. It is accessible at all times, though amenities like restrooms might have limited hours.
For general access to the beach, no booking is required. However, if you plan to visit a beach club like Les Sablettes Beach Club, reservations are recommended, especially during peak season.
Generally, there are no major restrictions for visiting Sablettes Beach. Standard public beach etiquette applies, and it's advisable to check local regulations for any specific rules.
Yes, visitors are typically allowed to bring their own food and drinks to Sablettes Beach. However, it's always good practice to clean up after yourself.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo spot is capturing the colorful Menton skyline from the beach or the water. Also, look for opportunities to photograph the unique rocky shore and the clear Mediterranean waters.
Early mornings offer soft, diffused light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the serene beauty. Late afternoons provide a warm, golden hour glow, enhancing the colors of the town and sea.
The primary landmark is the picturesque old town of Menton with its vibrant buildings. The beach itself, with its rocky texture and clear water, also makes for compelling photographic subjects. 
Drone usage is subject to local regulations, which can be strict in coastal and urban areas. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the Menton tourist office before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive skyline and beach views. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water and enhance colors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes located along the promenade adjacent to Sablettes Beach, offering various dining options.
Reviews suggest that while there are many dining options, the quality can be inconsistent. It's recommended to check recent reviews before choosing a restaurant.
Yes, Les Sablettes Beach Club is a notable establishment offering dining and relaxation by the sea. Other beach bars might also be available.
While some restaurants might be pricier due to the location, exploring slightly away from the immediate promenade or opting for takeaway options can offer more budget-friendly choices.
You can expect a range of Mediterranean and French Riviera cuisine, with many establishments offering fresh seafood and local specialties.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photographers
The clear, turquoise waters and the unique texture of the rocky shore offer diverse photographic opportunities. Visiting during the golden hour (late afternoon) or early morning will provide the best light for dramatic and vibrant images. Remember to bring a wide-angle lens to encompass the stunning panorama and a polarizing filter to enhance the water's clarity and reduce glare. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Sablettes Beach: Menton's Gem
The beach offers a unique visual experience, with the vibrant architecture of Menton serving as a dramatic backdrop. This makes it a popular spot for both relaxation and photography. While the beach itself is free to access, amenities like restaurants and beach clubs are available along the promenade, offering a place to dine or unwind.
+1For those looking for a more comfortable beach experience, Les Sablettes Beach Club provides services and a more curated environment. However, for a simple, beautiful beach day with incredible views, the public Sablettes Beach is an excellent choice. Remember to pack your beach shoes and prepare to be captivated by the charm of Menton.
Beyond Menton: Other Sablettes Beaches
+3Another Sablettes Beach is located in Mostaganem, Algeria. This beach is also a popular local destination, showcasing the coastal beauty of the region.
These different Sablettes beaches highlight the widespread appeal of coastal landscapes and the shared naming conventions across various countries. When planning a trip, always confirm the specific location you intend to visit to manage expectations regarding amenities and activities. +1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit