The Golfe de Saint-Tropez is worth exploring as a destination in its own right, rather than using it simply as the setting for a visit to Saint-Tropez. Around the water, the landscape moves between small rocky coves, sandy beaches, marinas, pine-covered shores and villages overlooking the Mediterranean.

Saint-Tropez may be its best-known destination, but there is much more around the Gulf. Across the water, Sainte-Maxime has a long waterfront, beaches and a lively town centre. Further inland, Grimaud and Plan-de-la-Tour bring vineyards, historic streets and Provençal countryside into the itinerary.

Closer to Saint-Tropez, the coastline becomes greener and more residential. Villas and small hotels are hidden between umbrella pines and Mediterranean gardens, with paths leading down towards quiet sections of the shore.

One advantage of staying around the Gulf is the variety of ways to explore it. Driving gives access to the smaller villages and beaches, while boats and seasonal ferry services make it possible to cross the water and avoid some of the busy summer roads.

The sea itself can also become part of the day. Swim from a small beach in the morning, have lunch overlooking the water and cross the Gulf for an afternoon or evening in another town.

For a longer stay, there is little need to choose between Saint-Tropez and its surroundings. The appeal of the Golfe de Saint-Tropez is precisely the combination of coast, villages, countryside and life on the water.

Places to combine around the Gulf

Saint-Tropez · old town, La Ponche, port and restaurants
Sainte-Maxime · waterfront, beaches and views towards Saint-Tropez
Grimaud · medieval village and surrounding hills
Port Grimaud · canals and life directly on the water
Plan-de-la-Tour · markets, vineyards and countryside
Ramatuelle · village, vineyards and the coast around Pampelonne

Explore More Around the Gulf

Historic Grimaud
Explore the medieval streets, Château de Grimaud and views across the Golfe de Saint-Tropez.
Discover Grimaud →

Continue in the Magazine
Discover how Gassin, historic Grimaud and waterside Port Grimaud each reveal a different side of the Golfe de Saint-Tropez.
Explore the full magazine feature →

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