Pampelonne beaches: the access guide (Ramatuelle, Saint-Tropez)
Nearly five kilometres long, Pampelonne beach, in the commune of Ramatuelle, is the most famous in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. Pale sand, clear water and legendary beach clubs draw an international crowd. Here is how to get there stress-free, especially in summer when the road and parking get complicated.
Where Pampelonne is
Pampelonne stretches along the south-east of the Saint-Tropez peninsula, within Ramatuelle. You will find both vast stretches of public beach and a run of private clubs, from the most laid-back to the most chic.
The beach has left its mark on history: it was here that iconic scenes of 1950s cinema were filmed, launching the legend of Saint-Tropez.
Access and parking
You reach Pampelonne via the beach road from Saint-Tropez or Ramatuelle. Paid car parks lie behind the clubs; they fill early in high season and the access roads can be gridlocked in the middle of the day.
The smart move: arrive early in the morning, or be dropped off right at your beach entrance to avoid hunting for a space and walking in the sun.
Choosing your spot
Each club has its own mood: family-friendly, festive or refined. Many require you to book a sunbed ahead in summer. The public stretches remain freely accessible for laying down a towel.
Remember to book a table too if you plan to have lunch by the water on a busy day.
The village of Ramatuelle
Above the beaches, the hilltop village of Ramatuelle is worth a stop: spiralling lanes, ramparts and views over the vineyards and the sea. Cap Camarat and its lighthouse, one of the tallest in France, round off the day nicely.
It is a pleasant contrast with the buzz of the seafront.
Going with a chauffeur
From Saint-Tropez, Cannes or Nice Airport, a chauffeur handles the often congested approach to the gulf, drops you as close as possible to the beach and returns at the chosen time. You enjoy the day without driving or hunting for parking — real comfort at the height of summer.