Almanarre Nord
Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France — Excellent water quality
Hyères sits on the Var coast with protected waters and land, offering visitors diverse themed experiences.
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Almanarre Nord
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Almanarre Nord?
Almanarre Nord sits along the Var coastline near Hyères, forming part of a 45-kilometre stretch of Mediterranean shore that opens onto a vast 27,000-hectare expanse of protected waters. This south-facing beach holds Blue Flag status with excellent bathing water quality, drawing both diving enthusiasts and those seeking the distinctive character of the Côte d'Azur without the crowds of more famous neighbours. The beach looks out toward the Îles d'Or — Porquerolles, Port-Cros, and Le Levant — adding depth to every seaward view. Backed by the Massif des Maures and surrounded by 14,000 hectares of protected natural space, Almanarre Nord represents the quieter, more authentic face of the French Riviera. The area has held Station Nautique certification since 1989, recognizing its exceptional conditions for water sports. Lifeguards patrol during the swimming season from June through September, when water temperatures climb from a comfortable 20°C to peaks of nearly 24°C in high summer.
It sits alongside other certified beaches in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, part of a broader network of other Blue Flag beaches in France certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Almanarre Nord faces S toward Mediterranean Sea. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in June, September. The beach's orientation determines when it catches direct sun — plan your visit around this to make the most of your time there.
Planning
When to Go — Month by Month
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 9°C | 9°C | Low |
| Feb | 9°C | 9°C | Low |
| Mar | 11°C | 12°C | Low |
| Apr | 14°C | 15°C | Low |
| May | 17°C | 16°C | Low |
| Jun | 22°C | 21°C | Low |
| Jul | 25°C | 24°C | High |
| Aug | 25°C | 24°C | High |
| Sep | 21°C | 20°C | Low |
| Oct | 17°C | 18°C | Low |
| Nov | 13°C | 13°C | Low |
| Dec | 10°C | 10°C | Low |
The best time to visit Almanarre Nord is June, September. Air temperatures peak around 25.1°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 23.6°C in July.
How crowded does Almanarre Nord get?Who visits Almanarre Nord, and when do they come? The beach serves multiple communities with different rhythms throughout the year. Diving enthusiasts appear year-round, their wetsuits making even winter water temperatures manageable. The area's Station Nautique status since 1989 draws serious water sports practitioners — sailors, windsurfers, and kitesurfers who value the consistent conditions.
How do crowd levels shift across the seasons? The June-to-September swimming season brings the most visitors, with July and August representing peak periods when French holiday schedules overlap with international tourism. During these months, expect the beach to fill by mid-morning on clear days. Lifeguard presence during this period reflects both the swimmer numbers and the official recognition of these as the primary bathing months.
Families gravitate here throughout summer, drawn by the supervised swimming, excellent water quality, and the gentler atmosphere compared to more famous Riviera beaches. The beach's south-facing orientation means sun exposure throughout the day — useful for families working around children's schedules.
September offers a different experience entirely. Water temperatures remain near 20°C while air temperatures average 21.4°C. Crowds thin considerably as school returns across Europe. For those with schedule flexibility, this month delivers the beach at its most balanced: warm enough for comfortable swimming, spacious enough for genuine relaxation.
Off-season visitors between October and May find a quieter coastal environment. Water sports practitioners, divers, and locals walking the coastal paths make up most of the beach population. The Mediterranean climate keeps conditions mild — January air temperatures average 8.5°C — making winter visits pleasant for those not seeking to swim.
Is Almanarre Nord open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (01-07 – 31-08). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at Almanarre Nord
Is Almanarre Nord safe to swim?Almanarre Nord is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is rated <span class="inline-stat">Excellent</span>. Lifeguards are on duty during the official season.
What is the water temperature at Almanarre Nord?Peak water temperature at Almanarre Nord reaches around <span class="inline-stat">23.6°C</span> in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 8.5°C.
What is the beach like at Almanarre Nord?What makes Almanarre Nord distinctive among Mediterranean beaches? The answer lies in its orientation and what surrounds it. Facing due south, the beach captures full sun throughout the day while the Massif des Maures provides shelter from northern winds. The water here carries Blue Flag certification with excellent bathing quality — a designation that reflects genuine environmental standards rather than marketing.
The diving tag associated with Almanarre Nord points to underwater conditions worth noting. The protected waters of this section of the Var coast support marine life that benefits from the nearby Port-Cros National Park, established in 1963 as France's first combined terrestrial and marine national park. Port-Cros even offers a marked underwater trail for snorkelers, and the clear conditions extend to beaches along this stretch of coast.
How does the water feel across the seasons? January and February bring the coldest temperatures at around 9°C — suitable only for wetsuit-equipped divers. March sees warming begin at 11.6°C, climbing through April's 14.5°C to May's 15.9°C. The official swimming season runs June through September for good reason: June arrives at 20.6°C, July and August plateau at 23.6°C, and September remains comfortable at nearly 20°C. October still offers 17.7°C for those willing to brave shorter days, while November drops to 13.3°C and December to 10.2°C.
Air temperatures follow a Mediterranean pattern. January averages 8.5°C — mild by northern European standards — while July and August both reach 25.1°C. September maintains warmth at 21.4°C, making it arguably the finest month for visiting: warm enough for swimming, less crowded than high summer, and with water still holding its August heat.
What can visitors expect from the beach environment? Almanarre Nord forms part of a coastline that alternates between sandy beaches with golden and silver tones, rocky coves, and coastal walking paths. The 27,000-hectare protected water area surrounding Hyères supports an impressive range of activities: sailing, motorboating, jet skiing, windsurfing, catamaran sailing, dinghy sailing, waterskiing, diving, sea kayaking, and various fishing styles including traditional palangrotte fishing and tuna fishing.
Lifeguards provide supervision during the June-to-September swimming season, adding a layer of safety for families. The beach's character shifts with the seasons and times of day. Morning light from the east illuminates the water before the sun moves overhead; late afternoon brings golden hour conditions as the sun descends toward the western horizon.
The view from Almanarre Nord extends to the three islands that define this coast. Porquerolles, the largest, sits visible on clear days with its 54 kilometres of marked trails. Port-Cros appears more distant but represents something remarkable: a complete ecosystem preserved since the early 1960s. Le Levant completes the trio, adding variety to the island silhouettes that punctuate the southern horizon.
The temperate climate means Mediterranean vegetation thrives year-round, with rare but substantial rainfall supporting the diverse plant life of the surrounding protected areas. This creates a coastal environment that feels distinctly different from more developed sections of the Côte d'Azur.
Does Almanarre Nord have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Almanarre Nord meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services. Trained lifeguards are on duty during the season. Parking is available nearby.
Almanarre Nord sits on the Mediterranean Sea — explore all Blue Flag beaches on the Mediterranean.
Planning a trip to France? Blue Flag Beaches France — our editorial guide to certified beaches across the country.
While You're Here
Beyond Almanarre Nord
Hyères delivers substance beyond its coastline. The old town preserves medieval character with a hilltop château, intact ramparts and gates, historic churches, and a compact centre that rewards wandering. Archaeological enthusiasts should visit the Fouilles d'Olbia, where excavations reveal a Greek-Roman settlement dating to the 4th century BC.
Hyères delivers substance beyond its coastline. The old town preserves medieval character with a hilltop château, intact ramparts and gates, historic churches, and a compact centre that rewards wandering. Archaeological enthusiasts should visit the Fouilles d'Olbia, where excavations reveal a Greek-Roman settlement dating to the 4th century BC.
The Villa Noailles represents a different era — a modernist landmark that now hosts contemporary art and design exhibitions. Botanical gardens thrive in the temperate climate, and the Observatoire du Pic des Fées offers panoramic perspectives over the coast.
The Villa Noailles represents a different era — a modernist landmark that now hosts contemporary art and design exhibitions. Botanical gardens thrive in the temperate climate, and the Observatoire du Pic des Fées offers panoramic perspectives over the coast.
The Îles d'Or provide full-day excursions by ferry. Porquerolles offers 54 kilometres of marked trails for hiking and cycling, including routes to the lighthouse and botanical conservatory. Mushroom foraging attracts autumn visitors. Port-Cros, as France's first marine and terrestrial national park, presents walking trails through undisturbed forest and that marked underwater snorkelling trail — a genuine rarity.
The Îles d'Or provide full-day excursions by ferry. Porquerolles offers 54 kilometres of marked trails for hiking and cycling, including routes to the lighthouse and botanical conservatory. Mushroom foraging attracts autumn visitors. Port-Cros, as France's first marine and terrestrial national park, presents walking trails through undisturbed forest and that marked underwater snorkelling trail — a genuine rarity.
Transport
Getting to Almanarre Nord
How do I get to Almanarre Nord by car?Almanarre Nord is approximately 4.64 km from Hyères. Follow local road signs to the beach. Check Google Maps or a local map for the most current directions.
What is the nearest airport to Almanarre Nord?The nearest airport is Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE), approximately 109.4 km away. Nice Côte d'Azur Airport handles international and domestic flights, connecting Almanarre Nord to destinations across Europe and beyond. The airport sits 109 kilometres from the beach, requiring onward travel by car, bus, or train connection. Driving time runs approximately 90 minutes to two hours depending on traffic conditions along the A8 autoroute and coastal roads. The route passes through classic Provençal landscape before reaching the Var coast. Car rental agencies operate from the airport terminal, offering the flexibility needed to explore the broader Hyères coastline and nearby attractions including the ferry ports for the Îles d'Or. Airport transfers and taxis are available but represent a significant cost over this distance.
Can I get to Almanarre Nord by public transport?Local bus services connect Hyères town centre to coastal areas including Almanarre. The regional Zou! bus network covers the Var department. Schedules vary seasonally, with more frequent services during summer months. Check current timetables through the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur regional transport authority for specific routes and stops nearest the beach.
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Entry | Free — no charge to access the beach |
|---|---|
| Lifeguards | ✓ On duty during official season |
| Disabled Access | Contact local authority for details |
| Showers | ✗ |
| Toilets | ✗ |
| Official Season | 01-07 – 31-08 |
| Beach Type | Sandy beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 43.0787°N, 6.1263°E |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — France |
Frequently Asked Questions
Almanarre Nord FAQ
Is Almanarre Nord worth visiting?
Almanarre Nord merits a visit for several concrete reasons. The Blue Flag status and excellent bathing water quality reflect genuine environmental standards. The 27,000-hectare protected water area creates conditions supporting diving, sailing, and various water sports — this coastline has held Station Nautique certification since 1989. Views extend to the Îles d'Or including Porquerolles and Port-Cros National Park. The beach offers a less developed alternative to crowded Riviera spots while maintaining proper facilities including lifeguard supervision during summer. For diving enthusiasts particularly, the location provides access to marine environments benefiting from nearby conservation efforts.
How do I get to Almanarre Nord?
Nice Côte d'Azur Airport lies 109 kilometres away, with driving taking roughly 90 minutes to two hours via the A8 autoroute. Car rental offers the most flexibility for exploring the coastline. Train services reach Hyères station via connections at Toulon, with TGV and regional services linking to the national network. From Hyères, local Zou! buses serve coastal areas though schedules vary seasonally. For those flying in, combining a rental car with train travel for specific trips represents a practical approach. The drive from Nice passes through characteristic Provençal scenery.
What is the best time of year to visit Almanarre Nord?
The official swimming season runs June through September, with water temperatures rising from 20.6°C in June to 23.6°C in July and August before dropping to 19.9°C in September. September stands out as an excellent choice: water retains summer warmth, air temperatures average 21.4°C, and summer crowds have departed. July and August bring peak temperatures but also peak visitor numbers. Lifeguards patrol during the June-September period. May offers 15.9°C water — swimmable for some — with fewer visitors. Divers and water sports enthusiasts extend their seasons with wetsuits, finding good conditions from spring through autumn.
What facilities are there at Almanarre Nord?
Lifeguards supervise the beach during the swimming season from June through September, providing safety coverage during peak bathing months. The Blue Flag certification indicates the beach meets standards for water quality and environmental management. The broader Hyères coastline supports extensive water sports infrastructure reflecting the area's Station Nautique status since 1989 — facilities exist for sailing, windsurfing, diving, kayaking, and motorised water sports. The beach forms part of 45 kilometres of coastline offering varied environments from sandy stretches to rocky coves. Specific amenity details should be confirmed locally before visiting.
Is Almanarre Nord suitable for families?
Almanarre Nord works well for families during the June-September swimming season when lifeguards provide supervision. The excellent bathing water quality offers reassurance for parents with children in the water. July and August water temperatures reach 23.6°C — comfortable for extended swimming sessions. The south-facing orientation delivers sun throughout the day. The broader Hyères area offers family-friendly diversions including ferries to Porquerolles with its car-free cycling and walking trails, the archaeological site at Olbia, and the medieval old town. Water conditions suit various activity levels from gentle swimming to more adventurous water sports for older children.
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