12 Cheap Beach Destinations in Southern France for Your Next Getaway

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Southern France is one of the most sought after destinations in Europe. Its sparkling blue waters, sun-soaked beaches, stunning coastal scenery – it is one of the most beautiful regions in France, if not the entire of Europe. Unfortunately, some of the most loved spots in Southern France are very expensive, something that pushes tourists to look for beach destinations elsewhere.

Luckily, you can still get your fill of seaside bliss in southern France without breaking the bank, if you know where to look. To score cheap holidays in Southern France, start by skipping the destinations now known as the epitome of luxury, flashy yacht lifestyles, and as a playground for the rich and famous.

Below, we’ll spill the details on 12 cheap beach destinations that deliver big on natural beauty, laidback vibes, and budget-friendly fun. From hidden gems along the Mediterranean coastline to popular resort towns with a more affordable side, you’ll discover how to plan an unforgettable Southern France coastal getaway that won’t cost you a fortune.

Marseille

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Tucked between the Mediterranean Sea and picturesque Calanques, Marseille offers beach escapes perfect for budget travelers. Being France’s second-largest city, Marseille has many lodging options, including absolute budget options. If you want to save more, you would be better off finding lodging in the city center. In addition to accommodation, dining is also very affordable in Marseille.

Head to the popular Plage des Catalans in Marseille, with its golden sand, clear waters, and lively beach clubs. Or venture south to the Calanque de Sugiton, a secluded cove with azure waters backed by limestone cliffs.

In addition, Calanque National Park has over 12 miles of rugged coastline and secluded shores to discover. You can hike the coastal trails to find your private paradise, like the pebbly Plage d’En Vau.

Nice

This seaside city on the French Riviera oozes old-world glamor. With its vibrant markets, upscale boutiques, and pebble beachfront along the cerulean Mediterranean, Nice is a perfect budget-friendly beach destination. While there are many high-end options to explore, there are a lot of cheap and free activities to enjoy in Nice. For instance, Nice has 15 private beaches. If you are on a budget, you want to avoid these and stick with the city’s 20 beaches with free public access, like Sailboat, Lenval, Carras, and Ponchettes.

No trip to Nice is complete without a stroll along the famous Promenade des Anglais. At the seafront promenade, you can grab an ice cream cone and people-watch or rent a sunbed and work on your tan while gazing at the azure sea.

The cobblestoned old town, with its mazes of alleyways, fountains, and cafés, is ideal for wandering, photography, and sightseeing.

Antibes

Antibes may lack the jet-set appeal of St. Tropez, but its laid-back vibe, cultural attractions, and lovely beaches make it an ideal (and budget-friendly) escape on the Cote d’Azur. You’ll leave feeling like you’ve experienced the charm of Southern France without the premium price tag.

The main draw here is the coast—miles of soft sand and azure waters along the Mediterranean Sea. Drop by Plage de la Garoupe, a quiet crescent-shaped beach edged by pines perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beachfront picnics.

When you need a reprieve from the sun, explore the historic ramparts of Fort Carré, a 16th-century sea fortress.

Menton

With over 300 days of sunshine annually, Menton is perfect for anyone looking to soak in the Mediterranean sun and sea. Head to Plage des Sablettes, a crescent-shaped shore of golden sand ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or beach volleyball. You can also visit the scenic Plage de Garavan. Both have lifeguards on duty and are free to enjoy, as is parking along the promenade.

After a day in the surf and sand, watch the sunset while dining alfresco along the promenade or in the old city. And at only 30 minutes from Nice Airport, Menton provides an easy beach escape in the scenic south of France without breaking the bank.

Èze

The charming medieval village of Eze is perched on a hilltop high above the French Riviera, with panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. The long and picturesque Eze Beach is perfect for enjoying the ultimate Mediterranean charm. Saint Laurent Beach would be an ideal spot to relax in perfect tranquility if you are into hidden gems.

The Exotic Garden of Eze is a botanical garden filled with tropical plants, cacti, and other succulents that offer a respite from the summer heat. You can wander through its cobblestone paths for a few euros and soak in the fragrant blooms with the sea sparkling below.

After exploring the gardens, head into the village itself. The stone buildings, archways, and alleyways transport you back in time.

Beaulieu-sur-Mer

With its picturesque setting, old-world charm, and laid-back vibe, Beaulieu-sur-Mer offers an idyllic seaside getaway in the South of France that won’t break the bank. Whether you go for a long weekend or longer, this lesser-known gem on the Cote d’Azur will captivate you.

The main beach in town, Plage Petite Afrique, has clear turquoise waters and pebbly sand. It’s a perfect spot to sunbathe, swim, or try water sports like kayaking. When you’ve had enough sun, stroll the Promenade Maurice Rouvier, a seaside walking path with palm trees.

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In the evenings, grab an outdoor table at one of the casual bistros along the promenade. Sip a glass of chilled rosé and dig into a platter of Nicoise olives, anchovies, and pâté while watching the sunset.

Leucate

Leucate checks all the boxes for an inexpensive beach holiday, whether you’re looking to relax, get active on the water, or soak in the Mediterranean ambiance. Its natural scenery and chilled-out vibe make it the perfect escape that won’t cost an arm and a leg.

Leucate’s shores offer plenty of space to spread out, especially if you venture away from the main one, the cliff-sheltered Leucate Plage. Some great options include La Plagette, Franqui, and Plage de Port Leucate.

The summer season from June to August does see bigger crowds, but the shoulder months of May and September can be ideal times to visit, with smaller crowds and lower prices.

The town has a laid-back vibe and remains relatively quiet most of the year.

Palavas-les-Flots

With a relaxed vibe, lovely beaches, and natural scenery surrounding an idyllic lagoon, Palavas-les-Flots offers an affordable seaside escape in the South of France.

Its sandy shoreline stretches over 4 miles, offering ample space to soak in the sun and sea. The wide shore is lined with low-key cafés and bars where you can grab an espresso or glass of rosé. For not too much money, you can rent a lounge chair and umbrella to lounge comfortably under the Mediterranean sun.

A popular activity is walking or biking the paths through the Etang de l’Or, a coastal lagoon and nature preserve teeming with birdlife. While exploring the pond, you might spot herons, flamingos, and terns.

Sète

Sete offers an appealing getaway for those seeking an affordable beach escape in southern France without the high prices of the French Riviera. A trip here proves you don’t need to go deep into your pockets to experience the charm of a French coastal town.

This port town is known for its scenic beachfront, seafood, and annual water jousting competition. Its town center of Sete wraps around the harbor, where you can watch the boats come and go while dining on fresh seafood at one of the many outdoor cafes.

Two of the most popular shores are Plage de la Corniche, a scenic stretch of sand along the seawall promenade, and Plage de la Grande Conque, a sheltered cove flanked by dramatic sea cliffs. Both provide opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and other recreational activities at no cost.

Frontignan

Frontignan strikes the perfect balance of natural scenery, outdoor activities, culture, and calm – without the high price tag. The beaches here are remarkably uncrowded, even in high season, so you can easily find your patch of sand. The Frontignan-Plage, with its beach huts and activities, is perfect for families. If you want something quieter, head to the ones at La Peyrade or La Tamarissiere.

That aside, don’t miss the Musee de la Plaisance, showcasing local maritime history and culture.

Accommodations in Frontignan are very affordable, with campsites, budget hotels, and vacation rentals to choose from.

Cap d’Agde

This Mediterranean seaside resort town is known for its nudist culture, 8 miles of sandy beaches and 300 days of sunshine each year. Consider visiting this destination in May or September for smaller crowds and lower prices. You’ll still get warm weather and can take advantage of off-season deals on accommodation.

Once there, spend your days sunbathing, swimming in the calm sea, and strolling the promenade along the coast. Various water sports like sailing, kayaking, and windsurfing are also available for active travelers. Some Cap d’Agde beaches to choose from include Plage Naturiste, Plage de la Roquille, Plage du Môle and Plage de Rochelongue.

Argelès-sur-Mer

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Some good beaches to consider here include Plage du Racou, Crique du Porteil and Plage Centre. Outside of high season, the crowds thin out, but the weather remains pleasant. This is an ideal time to find lower rates on accommodations and take advantage of hiking and cycling in the Pyrenees mountains north of town.

The wine route through the Agly Valley is also less busy, with vineyards producing Grenache, Syrah, and Carignan wines that pair perfectly with the local cuisine.