Hyères is located directly on the French Riviera, blessed with beautiful beaches that suits all kinds of beachgoers. The town’s charm combines Mediterranean vibes with an history reminding castles and squares. It offers relaxed pace of life. Getting there is easy, and once you’re in Hyères, the beaches are 20 minutes away.
You can arrive to Hyères by train or a bus from Toulon, or rent a car in Toulon. In both cases something between 30-45 minutes, and VOILA!, you will arrive to Hyères. See my full guide on how to travel around the area.
The best times to visit these beaches are during the late spring and early autumn months. The weather is ideal, warm but not too much, and the crowds are manageable. Summer is way too hectic.
We’ve been in the first week of August and the roads, beaches, and restaurants were super full. So, I would definitely recommend you to pick May or September if you can.
Each of Hyères’ beaches has its unique vibe. Some are perfect for families with kids, some are windsurfing havens, and others are quiet and secluded, ideal for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle. Crystal-clear waters, fine sand, and scenic views are standard here, so you really can’t go wrong.
Whether you’re into sunbathing, water sports, or just enjoying a picnic by the sea, you’ll find what you’re looking for in Hyères.
The Best Beaches in Hyères: Sun, Sand, and Serenity
It was my first time on the French Riviera, so I was really curious to find the best beaches in Hyères. I love the hidden gems, so therefore, my list consists of beaches that are less known as the standard “Tripadvisor advice”, with one exception. I hope you’ll like it.
Plage de l’Almanarre is a long stretch of sand and a must-visit according to Tripadvisor. Especially if you’re into windsurfing, you might come here. The steady winds and a big vast open space make it a windsurfing hot spot. But even if you’re not riding the waves, the long stretch of fine sand is perfect for relaxing. It is a beach that reminded my a bit of Corsica. More open, more wild and more space (than on the other ones from the list), even in August. As it is also the closest beach to the city you can get easier to the supermarket. Also, thanks to tits vicinity to the airport, it might be your first beach to visit.
Plage de la Madrague is one of best beaches in Hyères for number of reasons. It is much smaller than l’Almanarre and it offers a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. The shallow waters make it great for young kids, and there are plenty of shaded spots to set up a picnic. During August, this beach turns out to be as crowded as some of the other popular spots. If you want your spot, be early. Anyway, it’s ideal if you’re looking for a fun experience with the family. Also, if you are coming by public transportation, there is a bus stop, just down the la Bouillabaisse restaurant, which is within walking distance to the place. What I loved about this beach were its sunsets.
Tip: just across the shore, there is a mountain rising from the waters. The water is so shallow that you can walk there. You should expect numerous water plants. This means unfortunately, no good snorkeling.
We found a small bay just behind the hill while hiking from Madrague beach. The hiking trial along the peninsula is something I recommend. You can find a more hidden beaches, that are not on the Google maps.
Plage des Darboussières is located on the other side of the peninsula, but as well, just 10 minutes’ walking distance from the same bus stop as de la Madrague. It is your go-to for some peace and quiet. It is a bit away from the busiest parts of Hyères. Located in the bushes, this beach is where we started our hike around the peninsula. The beach itself is a perfect for a quiet day of sunbathing and reading. Remember, there aren’t many facilities nearby, so pack everything you need for a day out. I loved this beach more compared to de la Madrague, because of its dramatic cliffs.
Plage d’Escampo-Barriou is truly a hidden gem and the most favorite Hyères beach for me. It’s not as well-known as some of the other beaches, but that’s part of its charm. The beach offers crystal-clear waters and a bit more seclusion. Definitely worth the visit if you enjoy a more off-the-beaten-path experience.
As there is not a road leading to this beach, you can access it via hike either through a forest (not recommended, as the paths are not walked, and the tree branches can be annoying or, the better option, via hike path from Plage des Darboussières. Be prepared for some heights.
Both Darboussières and d’Escampo-Barriou are quieter beaches and also because of this quality must be among the best beaches in Hyères. Especially the second one guarantees you alone time, even in high season as early August. The alone time comes with trade-off. They require quite lot of walking, beaches have fewer facilities and are generally harder to reach.
The Best Porquerolles Beaches: A Paradise Within Reach
If you are spending more days in the area, why not visit Porquerolles? Another island where cars are not allowed and according to many, beaches are even more beautiful than in Hyères.
Porquerolles Island is a short ferry ride from the Hyères, and even the Island is less busy than the mainland, August found us on Porqueroles in its busiest nature. However, the beaches are super pristine with clearer water, perfect for those seeking a slice of paradise and snorkeling. There are 10 departures per day, and it takes around 20 minutes to cross. However, be sure to catch the last ferry, that departs between 6.30 or 6.45 pm depending on the season.
Tip: Although there are no cars allowed on the island, be prepared for some crazy bikers. I do live in Amsterdam, so I am used to crazy biking, but the mother of my girlfriend was hit by a biker! So, be extra cautious.
Plage Notre-Dame is a stunning beach with Caribbean like waters. It was voted the most beautiful beach in Europe and I can admit, it is well earned description. Surrounded by oak and pine trees, sheltered from Mistral wind, it gets a paradise like scenery. The journey here includes a bit of a walk (45 minutes) or bike (10 minutes) from the ferry terminal, but it’s absolutely worth it. Surrounded by lush greenery and clear blue waters, it’s an ideal spot for those who love nature and tranquility.
On that note, if you come around noon, be prepared for crowds. My personal tip I can give you is to stay after 4 o’clock. The two last hours, so 4-6pm are the emptiest. 3 quarters of people will leave to catch the last ferry departing 6.45, and probably have a bite before leaving the island. Bring along some snacks and drinks, as there are limited amenities nearby.
Plage d’Argent is natural extensions of Notre-Dame. It features white sand and crystal-clear waters, making it one of the most picturesque spots on the island. What sets it apart is the nearby amenities, including a couple of eateries where you can grab a bite and public toilet. It’s perfect way to combine it with Notre-Dame. If you only have a day on the island, the best Porquerolles beaches.
Plage de la Courtade is the largest beach on Porquerolles and the closest to the terminal. Its varied landscape, with rocky edges and soft sandy stretches, offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to swim, sunbathe, or simply take a long walk along the beach, La Courtade has got you covered. Thanks to its shallow waters it is particularly favorite for families with kids.
When visiting the beaches of Porquerolles, it’s smart to pack plenty of water, sun protection, and perhaps a picnic. The island primarily focuses on preserving its natural beauty, so you won’t find as many commercial facilities as on the mainland.
Is Porquerolles worth visiting for one day?
Absolutely yes.
Even though, the Island looks smaller than it is in reality, if planned properly you can visit its highlights in one day. For instance beaches in the morning, lunch time for winery, and some history towards the end of the day.
If you are not sleeping on the Island, pick one beach and stick with it, as the beaches are very similar to each other, so you won’t miss a lot if you skip some.
Important thing to know is that the roads are quite wild for biking. If you are not used to mountain biking, I discourage you from using the bikes here. As an experienced biker based in Amsterdam, Europe’s capital, I regularly ride in the Austrian mountains and found the routes here somewhat challenging. I am talking about August though. I can imagine that when the crowds aren’t that big, it could be much easier.
What you might visit if you have the time is Batterie des Mèdes, the remote fortress in the far north of the island and winery.
There are two on Porquerolles, one is Domaine de la Courtade, just off the de la Courtade, and the second one is Domaine de l’ile – La Boutique, not far from the ferry. I missed them because of the ferry departure and did regret it for a bit.
Sailing between Porquerolles and Hyères, with lunch can be also an unforgettable experience.
The Best Hyères Beaches: Which one to visit?
To help you choose among the best beaches in Hyères, the one you will like the most, this might help:
If you like big, open space and ideally love windsurfing, go to the Plage de l’Almanarre.
For family fun with picnic, or little kids I would recommend to visit Plage de la Madrague.
In case you are like me and you love adventure, ideally in combination with remote, and off beaten locations, then the Plage d’Escampo-Barriou is your must visit spot.