Visiting Sainte-Maxime, a low-key beach town in the Var
A town between the sea and the hills
Sainte-Maxime, located on the Var coast, is a seaside resort favored for its peaceful setting and sunny climate. Less flashy than its neighbor Saint-Tropez, it offers a more family-oriented and relaxed atmosphere. Its downtown area, with narrow streets lined with shops and restaurants, is perfect for wandering, while its marina serves as a departure point for exploring the Gulf of Saint-Tropez.
What to see in Sainte-Maxime?
The historic center holds a few notable buildings, such as the Sainte-Maxime Church and the Tour Carrée, a 16th-century relic that now hosts temporary exhibitions. The Promenade Simon-Lorière runs along the waterfront and offers great views of the bay. A bit further inland, the Jardin des Myrtes provides a pleasant patch of greenery.
For nature lovers, the coastal path offers an accessible hike with varied panoramas of the Mediterranean and local vegetation. A few miles away, the Massif des Maures allows for longer excursions through a forest of cork oaks and umbrella pines.
Beaches and water sports
Sainte-Maxime has several beaches, including Plage de la Nartelle, known for its fine sand and clear water. It is lined with beach clubs where you can have lunch with your feet in the sand. Closer to the center, the Plage du Centre-Ville is more crowded but easy to reach.
Water sports are well-developed here: you can rent paddleboards, jet-skis, go scuba diving, or take boat trips to Saint-Tropez. For a smart shortcut, maritime shuttles allow you to cross the gulf quickly, avoiding summer traffic jams. The Aqualand water park, with its thrill-seeking slides, is a hit with families.
Local gastronomy: what to taste in Sainte-Maxime?
Provençal cuisine takes center stage in local restaurants. Among the specialties to discover is aioli, a dish of fish and vegetables served with a garlic and olive oil sauce. Pissaladière, an onion and anchovy tart, is a popular snack. For something sweet, navettes provençales, cookies flavored with orange blossom, are a must-try.
When to go?
The best time to visit Sainte-Maxime is from May to September, when temperatures are pleasant and the sea is perfect for swimming. In July and August, the town is more lively but also more crowded. Off-season, the climate remains mild and the atmosphere is quieter. In October, the town hosts the Voiles de Saint-Tropez, a major nautical event that draws large crowds.
How to get there?
- By car: Sainte-Maxime is reachable via the A8 motorway. Take the exit at Le Muy, followed by a 20 km (about 12 mile) drive.
- By train: The closest station is in Saint-Raphaël, 25 km (about 15 miles) away, with bus or taxi connections available.
- By plane: From the airport in Nice, located about 90 km (about 56 miles) away, expect a drive or shuttle trip of roughly 1.5 hours.
Sainte-Maxime is a beautiful seaside resort on the Côte d'Azur! It hosts a market you should check out every Thursday morning. You can enjoy its sunny beaches and Provençal landscapes. The promenade along the coast is perfect for relaxing, while the charming town center is full of shops and cafes. Water sports and local festivals add some energy to this town, which offers plenty of activities for families. And, if you take your car, there are many towns and monuments to visit nearby (and for the more athletic, there are some superb hikes available).