Blue Flag beaches in Antibes

The FEE (Foundation for Environmental Education) is a non-profit organisation that awards the sought-after Blue Flag label. And if you're planning a visit to Antibes and its beaches you'll be pleased to know that it has some Blue Flag beaches.

Well-known for their crystalline turquoise waters, golden sand and wide range of facilities, the beaches in Antibes are among the most famous in the world so it's not surprising that some of them have been awarded the coveted Blue Flag: Les Groules, Marineland, Fontonne (East and West), Fort Carré and Antibes-les-Pins (West).

The beaches are evaluated each year based on 32 separate criteria, each beach or marina is judged on the quality of the water, safety and services (including lifeguards and first aid), information for beach users, environmental education and protection of the coastal environment. A beach without an eco-flag is not automatically less clean, some municipalities simply cannot afford or do not want to meet the strict requirements of the FEE.

Tips for making the most of Antibes' beaches:

• The closest beach to town is the Plage de la Gravette, it's sheltered and perfect for swimming. Also nice for a sunset aperitif on the beach.
• For more sandy stretches of beach visit Plage de Ponteil, next to the yacht club, and Plage de la Sais. Both have shallow water and lifeguards in summer.
• Plage de la Garoupe is where you'll find luxury beach clubs.