You may not find many celebrities at Midi Beach, but you can enjoy the sun, the sand, the gentle waves and the relaxed ambiance of the French Riviera at this popular spot. Amid walking on the red carpeted stairs of the Palais des Festivals et des Congres of Cannes, shopping on the Promenade de la Croisette and seeing other famous spots in the city, head a short distance west to claim a space on the beach. Expect to be close to your neighbors at this popular spot. Rubbing shoulders, sometimes literally, with other sun-worshippers from Cannes and around the world is part of the fun.
The name of Plage du Midi fits, as it lies midway between the city and other private beaches. West of Midi Beach are Plage des Sports and Waikiki. At 2,300 feet (700 meters), the public space of Plage du Midi has plenty of room for tanning, splashing in the water and walking hand-in-hand on hard-packed sand at the water’s edge. Look toward the Mediterranean Sea and you may see a float, offering another spot to enjoy the sun after a short swim to reach it.
Plan a full day at this Blue Flag beach. Do wear a swimsuit, as Midi Beach is not one of the nude beaches along the Cote d’Azur. Bring your own towel or blanket and rent umbrellas and sun loungers from one of the beach clubs. When you need a break from your relaxation on the sand or exertion in the water, have a meal and drinks at a beach club restaurant or purchase snacks and water from the beachside kiosk.
Midi Beach is about a 10-minute walk west of the Old Port of Cannes and the cruise ship docks. That makes it very convenient to Cannes residents and visitors, which means it can get quite crowded. Arrive early to secure a spot. Stroll or jog along the boulevard just behind the beach if you’re not stopping for sunbathing. You may find a parking spot here, but it’s best not to count on it. Arrive on foot or by taxi.