Plage de Palm Beach

Plage de Palm Beach is a private beach club at Pointe Croisette, the eastern tip of the Boulevard de la Croisette in Cannes, on the French Riviera in France's Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. The point juts into the Mediterranean beside the Palm Beach casino and port area, so the beach looks back across the Bay of Cannes towards the Old Port and the Esterel hills. The shore here is sand, and the water is generally clear and calm in summer, though the headland position leaves it somewhat more exposed to wind than the sheltered centre of the bay. Access is through the beach club, which provides the facilities: sunbeds and parasols, a restaurant, and a base for water sports nearby, so the experience is paid and service-led rather than a free public stretch. The atmosphere is relaxed and upmarket, favoured by couples, groups of friends and visitors staying at nearby hotels who want a managed day by the sea. Prices for loungers and meals are at Riviera levels, so visitors should check rates with the club before arriving. Bus 8 runs along the Croisette to the Palm Beach stop, and the walk from the central Palais area is long but flat and pleasant along the promenade. Car parking near the point is limited and charged, so the bus or a walk from the centre is usually easier. Reservations are advisable in July and August, when loungers sell out. The season runs from June to September, when the club is fully staffed and the water is warm. Outside those months the point is a quiet place for a walk with views over the bay. Visitors who prefer free sand can find public beaches elsewhere along the Croisette.