The Reality:
- Day bed rentals: €50-500+
- Lunch minimum spend expected
- Reservations essential
- See-and-be-seen atmosphere
- Public beaches always adjacent
Budget Approach:
- Walk through for atmosphere
- Use public sections nearby
- Bring your own everything
- Arrive early for space
- Leave before peak hours
Public Beach Strategy
- Plage de Pampelonne has multiple access points
- Each named section has different vibe
- Parking lots fill by 10 AM
- Bring shade (no natural shelter)
- Beach restaurants welcome non-club guests
Alternative Beaches
- Plage des Graniers: 10-minute walk from port
- Plage des Canoubiers: Less scene, more families
- Coves along coastal path: Effort rewarded
- Early morning: Any beach peaceful