Plage de Gigaro

Plage de Gigaro is a wide sandy beach below the village of La Croix-Valmer, on the southern side of the Saint-Tropez peninsula in the Var. It faces the Îles d'Or, holds the Blue Flag and the Handiplage label, and suits families during the day and walkers heading into the protected Cap Lardier estate.

Between Cap Lardier and Cap Taillat

Cap Lardier frames the bay to the west and Cap Taillat to the east. The sand is wide and the water clear, and the start of the Cap Lardier headland gives the best overall view of the beach. Late afternoon is the best time for the light over the islands off Hyères. The tourism board's listing also mentions the beach's place in the Allied landings of 1944 and its use as a film location.

Coastal path into the Cap Lardier estate

Gigaro is the entrance to the Cap Lardier estate, which the Port-Cros National Park manages and protects. From the end of the sand the coastal path continues past small rocky coves; the cove by the Îlot du Crocodile is about 20 minutes away. Strong walkers can follow the coast much further, toward Cap Taillat and Escalet. Ranger-led outings start from the estate entrance at the beach in spring. Bring water and good shoes.

Marked underwater trail at Plage de Jovat

A marked underwater trail lies at Plage de Jovat, about 1.5 km away and roughly 20 minutes on foot. It is designed for snorkellers and points out life on the seabed.

Lifeguards, showers and the Handiplage label

Access is free every day of the year. The beach has a lifeguard and first-aid post in season, showers, toilets, a restaurant, beach equipment hire and nearby shops. The Handiplage label means equipment is available to help people with reduced mobility reach the water. Parking is paid depending on the season, and a free shuttle runs from La Croix-Valmer in summer, the easiest option in July and August. Dogs are not allowed on the beach by day. The village of La Croix-Valmer is about 5 km away, and Cap Taillat about 4 km.