Swimming and Beaches in Monaco: Where to Swim and Sunbathe

Beaches in Monaco

Despite its compact size, Monaco offers genuine beach and swimming options for residents and visitors. The Principality's coastline runs along the Mediterranean, and while it lacks the long sandy stretches of nearby Antibes or Nice, its beaches are well-maintained, accessible, and surrounded by the dramatic scenery of the Riviera.

Larvotto Beach

Overview

Larvotto is Monaco's main public beach, located in the eastern part of the Principality along avenue Princesse Grace. It is the place where most residents and tourists come to swim, sunbathe, and relax. The beach was extensively renovated in 2021–2022 as part of a major urban development project that extended the green area behind the beach and improved facilities.

What to Expect

• Type: Fine gravel/pebble beach (not sand), though the recent renovation improved the surface
• Access: Free and open to the public, no reservation needed
• Length: Approximately 400 metres
• Facilities: Public showers, changing areas, lifeguard station, accessible ramps for people with reduced mobility
• Seabed: Gentle slope, suitable for families with children; the area is protected by anti-jellyfish nets (installed seasonally)
• Season: The beach is open year-round, though lifeguards and full services operate from approximately June to September

Restaurants and Bars

Several beach restaurants and bars line the Larvotto promenade, offering seafood, salads, and Mediterranean cuisine. These include well-known establishments with terrace dining directly overlooking the sea. Expect prices starting around 20–30 euros for a main course at a beachfront restaurant.

Le Solarium

The Solarium is a sun-bathing platform located near the Rainier III Nautical Stadium, on the waterfront between the Larvotto area and the port. It offers flat areas for sunbathing on decking right at the water's edge, with ladders for access to the sea.

• Access: Free
• Type: Concrete and decking platform, no sand
• Facilities: Minimal — bring your own towel and supplies
• Best for: Those who prefer a quieter, less crowded alternative to Larvotto

Monte-Carlo Beach Club

Overview

The Monte-Carlo Beach is a private beach club operated by the Société des Bains de Mer (SBM), the company that also manages the Casino de Monte-Carlo and several luxury hotels. It is located just east of Monaco, technically in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin.

Facilities

• Private beach: Sandy beach with sun loungers, parasols, and attendant service
• Olympic-size heated pool: A seawater pool open during the summer season
• Restaurant: The Deck, offering Mediterranean cuisine
• Spa: Treatments available poolside
• Water sports: Paddleboards, kayaks, and other equipment available for guests

Access and Prices

• Day pass: Prices for a sun lounger and parasol start from approximately 40–80 euros per person during peak season, varying by location and day
• Hotel guests: Complimentary access for guests of certain SBM hotels (Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel, Hôtel de Paris, etc.)
• Season: Typically open from May to October
• Reservations: Recommended, especially in July and August
• Website: montecarlosbm.com

Sea Temperature by Season

The Mediterranean off Monaco has relatively warm water during the summer months and remains mild compared to northern European waters year-round.

The warmest months for swimming are typically July and August, when water temperatures reach 23–25°C. Many locals swim from June through October.

Water Sports at the Beach

Larvotto and the surrounding coastline offer a range of water sports:

• Paddleboarding (SUP): Boards can be rented from operators along Larvotto beach, typically from 15–20 euros per hour
• Kayaking: Single and tandem kayaks available for hire
• Snorkelling: The Larvotto Marine Reserve (Réserve du Larvotto) is a protected area just offshore, home to seagrass beds and a variety of fish species — excellent for snorkelling
• Jet-ski: Rental operators are based in nearby Cap-d'Ail or from the ports; jet-skiing is not permitted close to the beaches
• Sailing: Small boat and dinghy sailing from the YCM or Nautical Stadium area

Swimming Pools

For those who prefer a pool:

• Rainier III Nautical Stadium: Open-air seawater pool and diving platforms, open seasonally (summer months). Affordable public entry, typically around 5–6 euros for adults
• Stade Louis II pool: 50-metre indoor/outdoor pool used for training and available for public sessions at set times
• Hotel pools: Several hotels in Monaco have pools open to guests, and some offer day-pass access

Practical Information

• Larvotto Beach: Avenue Princesse Grace, MC-98000 Monaco — free access year-round
• Monte-Carlo Beach Club: Avenue Princesse Grace, 06190 Roquebrune-Cap-Martin — montecarlosbm.com
• Rainier III Nautical Stadium: Quai Albert 1er, MC-98000 Monaco
• Emergency: Lifeguards are present at Larvotto during the summer season; in case of emergency at sea, contact the Monaco Sea Rescue (CROSS) or call 18