The French Riviera continues to redefine seaside luxury, especially as summer approaches. From its stunning natural beauty to its world-class beach clubs, this iconic coastline offers an unparalleled holiday experience. This year, expect even more sophisticated venues and exclusive events, blending high fashion, gourmet dining, and the unmistakable Mediterranean spirit. I’ve been looking into some of the latest developments for 2026, and it’s truly shaping up to be a spectacular season.
New Summer Openings
Nammos Arrives in Cannes
A significant opening this summer is the highly anticipated Nammos in Cannes. This franchise is already celebrated globally for its chic Greek island style and trendsetting beachside locations. Its collaborations with luxury brands like Dior have set a high standard.
Nammos Cannes is set to bring its popular concept, which has found success in places like Dubai and Mykonos, to the French Riviera. The venue, located at Cape Palm Beach, evokes the glamorous aesthetics of the 1960s. It includes a restaurant, a beachfront area, and a pool with sunbathing spots and a bar.
The decor features bright turquoise umbrellas and loungers against natural materials and sandy accents, creating a visually appealing setting. On the menu, you’ll find fresh seafood, a signature burrata dish with various tomatoes, and an eggplant mille-feuille with feta. Expect resident DJs to provide music, with weekend brunches that transition into lively parties on the sand.
La Rose des Vents Opens in Monaco
For those staying in Monaco, a new elegant spot is opening on Larvotto Beach: La Rose des Vents. This exclusive beach club is located where the former Marco restaurant once stood and is part of a project designed by architect Renzo Piano, known for his work on the Pompidou Museum.
La Rose des Vents offers 36 sun loungers and two private luxury cabanas, along with convenient changing cabins. The atmosphere is inspired by Italian “Dolce Vita,” with striking red geometric umbrellas and tables. The restaurant provides a lovely setting for leisurely lunches or romantic dinners by the sea.
The menu focuses on classic Italian dishes and fresh Mediterranean seafood. This venue is intended to be a year-round destination for relaxation and dining by the Mediterranean, offering a refined escape. I always appreciate places designed with such artistic vision, thinking about how Sofia might enjoy the vibrant feel of the umbrellas.
Twiga Baia Beniamin Expands to Italy
Restaurateur Flavio Briatore is also behind Twiga Baia Beniamin, a new venture situated on the Italian Riviera, a short boat ride from Monaco. This location aims to capture the distinctive style of the famed Twiga brand.
At Twiga Baia Beniamin, you can enjoy Mediterranean cuisine, including grilled seafood, paella, and pasta. The setting is designed for a celebratory experience, featuring live music and DJ sets. It’s a place that seems to promise an energetic and glamorous atmosphere for its guests.
Access to Twiga Baia Beniamin is well-arranged, with options for sea transfer from Monaco, car, or even helicopter, thanks to a nearby helipad. This ease of access adds to the exclusive feel of the destination, making it an attractive option for a special outing.
Cala Pulpo Offers Seclusion
Nestled in a quiet lagoon in Roquebrune-Cap Martin, close to Monaco, Cala Pulpo is a new beach club focused on peace and privacy. Its seclusion from busy neighbours promises a tranquil experience by the sea.
The design of Cala Pulpo’s restaurant and lounging areas draws inspiration from Mykonos and Ibiza, creating a relaxed, bohemian vibe. A live DJ enhances the atmosphere. The culinary offerings are overseen by Canadian chef Thierry Cornuet, an expert in grilling, whose book “The Art of Barbecue” is well-known.
The menu features a variety of grilled meats and fish, alongside dishes like chicken tortilla, shrimp tacos, lobster sandwiches, and other Mediterranean classics. For convenience, the club offers a yacht shuttle service and valet parking, ensuring a smooth arrival for its patrons.
Featured Beach Clubs
Monte-Carlo Beach Complex
The Monte-Carlo Beach is a comprehensive complex offering a range of amenities. It includes several dining venues like “Le Deck” and “Elsa,” a bar, a heated pool, a beauty salon, and a boutique.
This season sees a change in leadership with René Blino taking over the management of the main beach club. The Monte-Carlo Beach has seen a significant rise in popularity, particularly after its renovation in 2009. The establishment is recognized for its commitment to sustainability and environmental protection.
The “Elsa” restaurant is highlighted for its zero-waste cuisine, showcasing the chefs’ dedication to eco-friendly practices. This year, Michelin-starred chefs Marcel Ravin, Pascal Garrigues, and Domenico D’Antonio will be collaborating in the kitchen, focusing on local fish dishes. “Le Deck” restaurant hosts a “Dolce Vita” brunch every Sunday, celebrating Italian cuisine.
Bagatelle Saint-Tropez on Pampelonne Beach
Bagatelle has brought its signature style to Pampelonne beach in Saint-Tropez for the summer season. Chef Manon Santini has personally selected producers to ensure the quality of the seasonal ingredients used in the kitchen.
Dishes prepared here celebrate fresh, seasonal produce. New menu items include zucchini flowers with ricotta, pizzetta with berries, bread with mozzarella and caviar, and Italian tigelle. The beach itself is a major draw, perfect for relaxing after a meal and then joining the daily parties held under striped umbrellas.
The energy at Bagatelle Saint-Tropez is infectious. After dining, guests are invited to dance on the sand, creating a lively atmosphere that extends throughout the day. It’s a place for both excellent food and celebrations.
Casa Amor’s Tulum Vibe
Casa Amor offers a distinctively trendy experience, known for its lively parties and its inspiration from Mexican Tulum. This venue has also successfully launched a branch in Dubai, underscoring its international appeal.
A mysterious and captivating aura pervades Casa Amor. During parties, guests may even find a shaman present, adding a unique spiritual element. Last summer, Dolce & Gabbana opened a corner here, contributing their distinctive fashion aesthetic to the establishment.
Fans of electronic music flock to Casa Amor for its resident DJ sets. The 2026 season is set to feature prominent DJs such as Blondish and Bedouin. The place attracts celebrities and those looking for an energetic, music-filled beach experience. I can imagine this being a place where Julien would really enjoy the music.
Jacquemus x Indie Beach Collaboration
Fashion designer Simon Porte Jacquemus has made a significant mark on the French Riviera, bringing his unique style to iconic beaches and restaurants. His collections are known for being colorful, casual, and fun, fitting perfectly with the Saint-Tropez spirit.
Beyond pop-up stores and boutiques, Jacquemus is launching “La Renaissance,” a new brasserie in the heart of Place des Lices, offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu features dishes like dorado carpaccio with citrus and hazelnuts, and lemon sorbet for dessert, aiming to evoke an Italian Capri feel.
Following dining, Jacquemus invites guests to his signature beach experience at Indie Beach. The area is decorated with his branded umbrellas and loungers. You can also enjoy designer paddle boards. The brand also operates a small beachside shop. It’s not uncommon to see the designer himself enjoying the atmosphere, making it a truly exclusive celebrity hotspot.
The Maybourne Beach Retreat
The Maybourne Riviera hotel has introduced its own private beach, The Maybourne Beach, offering spectacular views of Monaco. Situated on the rocks of Roquebrune-Cap Martin, the location allows for easy access to the sea, which is noted for its cleanliness.
This beach club provides a relaxed environment, with sun loungers arranged on different levels and spaced apart for privacy. A dedicated pontoon caters to boat arrivals. The design ensures a peaceful and comfortable experience for guests seeking tranquility.
The menu features popular dishes such as clam linguini, various tacos, and Riviera artichoke salad. These offerings complement the seaside setting, providing an elegant dining option along with the beautiful natural surroundings. It sounds like a perfect spot for a quiet afternoon.
Planning Your Riviera Visit in 2026
What are the top dining experiences?
The French Riviera is globally renowned for its exceptional dining scene. Many beach clubs and hotels feature restaurants helmed by celebrated chefs, offering everything from refined Mediterranean cuisine to innovative gourmet creations. Expect fresh seafood, locally sourced ingredients, and an emphasis on exquisite presentation.
From Michelin-starred establishments to chic beach club eateries, the options are diverse. Whether you seek a romantic dinner by the sea or a lively lunch accompanied by music, you’ll find world-class culinary experiences. Many venues also offer tasting menus and wine pairings, tailored to enhance your meal.
Which beaches are family-friendly?
While many Riviera beaches cater to a sophisticated adult clientele, some offer amenities suitable for families. Resorts and beach clubs are increasingly focusing on creating welcoming environments for children, with dedicated areas, supervised activities, and menus designed for younger guests. It’s always a good idea to research specific venues when planning a family trip.
When considering family stays, look for accommodations that offer kids’ clubs or family-focused services. Beach safety is also a key consideration; many establishments provide clear guidelines and assistance. Thinking about these details helps ensure everyone has a comfortable and enjoyable time. For more on family activities, you can explore the best family options.
When is the best time to visit?
The peak season on the French Riviera is typically during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for beach activities. However, this is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.
For a slightly less crowded experience with pleasant weather, consider visiting in late spring (May) or early autumn (September). The shoulder seasons offer beautiful sunshine, lower prices, and a more relaxed atmosphere. For detailed advice on timing, check out our guide to the best times to visit.
What are the accommodation options?
Accommodation choices on the French Riviera range from expansive luxury hotels and private villas to charming boutique establishments. Many high-end resorts and beach clubs offer exclusive suites and private bungalows, often with direct beach access or stunning sea views.
You can also find a wide array of private villas available for rent, providing more space and privacy, which can be ideal for families or groups. Researching different neighborhoods and types of stays will help you find the perfect place to suit your needs and budget. Discover more at options for where to stay.
The French Riviera in 2026 promises a season filled with glamour, exquisite dining, and unforgettable beach experiences. Crafting a memorable trip here involves exploring these vibrant venues and understanding what each offers.
