Escape to the Riviera's quieter side. Long sandy beaches, a protected lagoon teeming with flamingos and herons, and a family-friendly atmosphere far from the crowds — all just 30 minutes from Saint-Tropez by boat.
Saint-Aygulf is a charming seaside resort nestled between Fréjus to the west and Les Issambres to the east. Part of the commune of Fréjus, it has its own distinct identity — quieter, more natural, and genuinely family-oriented compared to its glamorous neighbours along the coast.
The star attraction is the Plage des Esclamandes, a sweeping stretch of fine golden sand that extends for over a kilometre. The beach is gently sloping with shallow waters, making it ideal for children. In summer, lifeguards are on duty and a handful of low-key beach restaurants serve grilled fish and cold rosé.
Just behind the beach lies the Étang de Villepey, a protected coastal lagoon classified as a site naturel. Home to over 200 bird species including flamingos, herons, kingfishers, and migratory waders, it is one of the last remaining coastal wetlands on the Var coast. A marked trail loops around the lagoon — binoculars recommended.
South of the village, the coastline becomes rockier as it transitions toward Les Issambres, offering small calanques and excellent snorkelling spots. A boat rental from Saint-Tropez brings you here in 30 minutes, avoiding the congested D559 coast road entirely.
Plage des Esclamandes (1+ km)
Étang de Villepey (200+ species)
22-26°C (Jun-Sep)
From €440 per trip (1-10 pax)
Families, nature lovers, couples
Flamingos at the étang, early morning
No Michelin pretension here — just honest, unpretentious Riviera cooking. Beach bistros, family-run seafood restaurants, and lagoon-view terraces.
Beach bistro
Feet-in-the-sand lunch on Plage des Esclamandes, grilled sardines and rosé
Mediterranean seafood
Family-run since 1978, bouillabaisse and local fish on the main boulevard
Provençal
Overlooking the Étang de Villepey, seasonal menus with lagoon-inspired dishes
Italian
Generous wood-fired pizzas with a view of the small harbour, family-friendly
The protected Étang de Villepey lagoon is a haven for over 200 bird species — flamingos, herons, kingfishers, and migratory waders. Bring binoculars and follow the marked nature trail along the water's edge.
Rent a kayak and paddle through the calm, brackish waters of the lagoon. A peaceful way to observe wildlife and explore reed beds and hidden channels away from the sea.
Plage des Esclamandes stretches for over a kilometre of fine golden sand. Walk south toward Les Issambres to discover rocky calanques, or north toward Fréjus along an unbroken sandy coastline.
The sentier du littoral connects Saint-Aygulf to Les Issambres along a stunning clifftop trail. Pine trees, hidden coves, turquoise water — allow 2 hours for the full walk.
Reserve online or call us. We run daily departures from Saint-Tropez throughout the summer season, June to September.
Meet your captain at the Vieux Port in Saint-Tropez. We send you the precise meeting point by SMS before departure.
After a 30-minute scenic coastal cruise, your captain drops you at the Saint-Aygulf shore. Return boat available all day.