France is not just Eiffel Tower and Louvre but for some travellers it is the favourite place to spend summer holidays. Instead of going up the top of the Eiffel Tower or touring the Louvre Museum travellers can enjoy a holiday at or on a beach in France. If you happen to be on a road trip in France, chances are you will find some beaches close to the city.

If you feel like taking a dip while on a road trip head to these places in Southeastern France and drive along the seaside.

1. Bandol

Bandol is located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region in Southeastern France. It is known as a beach town, from its sandy beaches to rocky bays and creeks. The sandy beaches are more popular in the summer and the Plage Centrale is the sandy beach that’s closest to the town centre. Bandol is also known for its wines and rosés – from powerful to fruity and juicy and to full bodied tasting wines. If you want a completely relaxing stop and take a dip on a hot summer day Bandol makes a favourite beach stop.

2. Nice

Nice is also located in the Côte d’Azur region on the south-east coast of France. This large city on the French Riviera is known for its famous waterfront, the Promenade des Anglais. Aside from that, the CAP3000 mall makes for an interesting stop for shopping and its location on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea makes for a perfect dip in the sea.

3. Menton

Also situated on the Riviera in southeastern France, Menton is known for its beaches and gardens. There are public and private beaches in Menton and a promenade along the beach makes for a pleasant summer day after a long drive. The beaches vary in kind from sandy to pebbled and there are even beaches for dogs. If you like seafood enjoy a delectable meal at the waterfront. Since Menton is on the side of Côte d’Azur bordering Italy the influence of Italian gastronomy is present in the area.

Click to view slideshow.
We discovered these places during one of our summer road trips. Although we both don’t like to go swimming we like the view of the water from where we could find a nice place to spend a nice meal and a drink.

Have you been to these places or some other places in southeastern France? We would love to hear your story.