
The French Riviera is synonymous with luxury, and for those exploring it by yacht or superyacht, the journey is just as remarkable as the destination. Beyond the iconic ports and bustling promenades lies a more exclusive experience, which is dining at glistening French Riviera restaurants only accessible by yacht or boat.
From hidden coves near Cap d’Antibes to legendary beach clubs in Saint-Tropez, these venues are designed for guests who arrive by yacht tender, not by car. In this guide, SuperYachtsMonaco reveals the best French Riviera restaurants only accessible by yacht that elevate both cuisine and setting and make perfect stops on your next French Riviera cruise.
Why Yacht Access Defines the French Riviera Dining Experience
The Allure of Arriving by Tender
For those cruising the coast on a luxury yacht, arriving at a French Riviera restaurant only accessible by yacht tender is part of the charm. Many of the Riviera’s most sought-after venues are tucked into coves or perched along beaches without road access, making arriving by sea both practical and indulgent. With private pontoons, mooring buoys, and dedicated tender boat services, these destinations are built with yachting in mind.
Unforgettable Settings, Only Accessible by Sea
These restaurants offer more than just a good meal. They also serve uninterrupted views, privacy, and a sense of discovery. Nestled among cliffs, pine forests, and turquoise bays, they reflect the very essence of a cruise: scenic, exclusive, and effortlessly elegant.
Best French Riviera Restaurants Only Accessible by Yacht
While Cannes is world-renowned for its red-carpet glamour and designer boutiques, its offshore islands offer a different kind of luxury full of tranquillity, natural beauty, and exclusive waterfront dining best accessed by sea. Just a short tender ride from the mainland, these secluded spots provide a welcome escape from the bustling Croisette and are essential stops on any well-crafted French Riviera cruise.
La Guérite – Île Sainte-Marguerite
Tucked into a quiet cove on Île Sainte-Marguerite, La Guérite is one of the Riviera’s most iconic restaurants, accessible by boat. The setting is as spectacular as the atmosphere. There are pine trees overhead, the scent of grilled seafood in the air, and a crowd that shifts from chic lunchtime diners to sunset revellers.
Helmed by Greek chef Yiannis Kioroglou, the menu blends Mediterranean flavours with refined flair. Think octopus carpaccio, grilled langoustines, and Provençal vegetables served in a setting that’s equal parts rustic and glamorous. Accessible only by tender, this is a destination where the journey is just as enjoyable as the destination.
- Access: Private yacht tender or La Guérite’s water shuttle from Cannes.
- Atmosphere: Upscale, energetic, often with live DJs by late afternoon.
- Ideal for: Long lunches that turn into impromptu celebrations.
Les Pirates – Juan-les-Pins
Located around the corner in Juan-les-Pins, Les Pirates is a hidden gem offering an understated, elegant dining experience. With a beachfront terrace and mooring buoys nearby, it’s perfectly suited to those arriving by tender boat for yachts.
The menu is seafood-focused and seasonally driven, with highlights including grilled catch-of-the-day, saffron risotto, and rich chocolate desserts. Service is discreet and polished, making it a favoured stop for those seeking serenity over spectacle.
- Access: Anchor offshore and arrive by yacht tender.
- Atmosphere: Refined, low-key, ideal for a quieter stop on your itinerary.
- Ideal for: Private lunches or romantic early evening dinners on the water.
Saint-Tropez & Pampelonne Beach
No Riviera itinerary is complete without a stop in Saint-Tropez, the glamorous fishing village turned jet-set playground. While the port itself brims with elegant dining, the real treasures lie along Pampelonne Beach, just a short tender ride from anchored yachts. This legendary stretch of sand is home to some of the best restaurants on the French Riviera, where fine dining meets barefoot elegance and access by sea is the norm.
Club 55 – Pampelonne Beach
Arguably the most iconic beach restaurant in the region, Club 55 has been a staple of Saint-Tropez life since Brigitte Bardot’s heyday. Set back from the shoreline beneath canvas canopies and tamarisk trees, this restaurant embodies Riviera chic in its purest form.
The menu is effortlessly classic, including grilled fish, chilled rosé, and garden vegetables, and the service is famously discreet. Tenders from luxury superyachts glide in throughout the day, dropping off guests for languid dinners that often stretch well into the afternoon.
- Access: Private jetty for direct yacht tender drop-off.
- Atmosphere: Laid-back yet polished and understated glamour with a nostalgic twist.
- Ideal for: Iconic Riviera meals with friends, family, or high-profile guests.
Loulou Ramatuelle – Pampelonne Beach
Loulou brings Parisian flair to the shores of Saint-Tropez, blending sophisticated interiors with a breezy beachfront setting. Known for its eye-catching design, curated music, and stylish crowd, it’s one of the newer stars on the Pampelonne strip.
The cuisine is Mediterranean with a fashionable twist. Crudo platters, truffle pizza, and Provençal classics are all paired with craft cocktails or a bottle of the local rosé. It’s an experience made for those who appreciate both detail and decadence.
- Access: Tender-friendly; mooring offshore with smooth service to shore.
- Atmosphere: Creative, upbeat, and distinctly fashionable.
- Ideal for: Elegant daytime dining with a trend-conscious edge.
Nikki Beach – Pampelonne Beach
For those looking to turn up the volume, Nikki Beach is Pampelonne’s undisputed party hub. With DJs spinning from midday, signature white daybeds lining the terrace, and champagne on constant pour, this is where the beach becomes a full-blown event.
Despite its lively reputation, the food menu is surprisingly diverse. Think sushi boats, lobster rolls, and Mediterranean classics. Arriving by yacht tender feels right at home here, where guests are welcomed like VIPs and celebrations unfold with Riviera flair.
- Access: Anchoring offshore with full tender service.
- Atmosphere: High-energy, celebratory, and boldly extravagant.
- Ideal for: Afternoon parties, celebratory dinners, or group gatherings during peak season.
Antibes & Cap d’Antibes
Between the elegance of Cannes and the glamour of Monaco lies Cap d’Antibes. This area is one of the Riviera’s most picturesque headlands and a favourite among those cruising by superyachts. Known for its pine-covered cliffs and turquoise waters, the area offers a slower pace and timeless charm. For guests aboard a French Riviera cruise, Antibes offers a blend of old-world refinement and discreet luxury, best enjoyed at its exclusive seaside restaurants.
Plage Keller – Plage de la Garoupe
Set on one of the most beautiful beaches in Cap d’Antibes, Plage Keller combines panoramic sea views with upscale yet relaxed dining. The restaurant’s jetty is designed for yacht tenders, offering easy access for guests anchored in the sheltered bay.
Under the shade of the restaurant’s iconic sunflower-yellow parasols, guests enjoy a seasonal menu featuring dishes such as wild seabass, langoustine ravioli, and citrus-dressed burrata. The service is polished, and the setting, facing the Bay of Angels with views toward the Alps, is one of the most serene along the coast.
- Access: Private dock for yacht tender arrivals.
- Atmosphere: Peaceful, refined, scenic, and perfect for leisurely long lunches and beautiful dinners.
- Ideal for: Family gatherings or relaxed afternoons far from the crowds.
Eden-Roc Grill – Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc
For those seeking culinary excellence paired with old-world prestige, the Eden-Roc Grill delivers an unforgettable experience. Part of the legendary Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc, this clifftop restaurant is accessible by sea and remains a symbol of Riviera sophistication.
Guests can arrive via tender boats, stepping ashore for lunch overlooking the Mediterranean. The grill serves elegant, seasonal fare, such as Mediterranean fish, grilled meats, and impeccable desserts, against a backdrop of pine trees and polished service. It’s a refined yet approachable choice for those seeking tradition and luxury.
- Access: Tender-friendly dockage at the hotel’s private landing.
- Atmosphere: Timeless, elegant, and discreetly opulent.
- Ideal for: Special occasions, private business lunches, or romantic waterfront dining.
Èze & Beaulieu-sur-Mer
Nestled between Nice and Monaco, the stretch of coastline around Èze and Beaulieu-sur-Mer is known for its dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and deeply rooted elegance. These small yet sophisticated seaside communities are favourites among those exploring the coast by yacht or superyacht, offering a balance of natural beauty and culinary excellence. With limited road access and peaceful anchorages, this region is particularly well-suited to guests arriving by yacht tender.
Anjuna Plage – Èze-sur-Mer
At the base of the medieval hilltop village of Èze, Anjuna Plage is a bold, bohemian escape that channels tropical energy with Riviera flair. Its colourful décor, vintage furnishings, and upbeat music create a laid-back yet festive environment that’s become a favourite among yacht-goers seeking a different kind of Riviera experience.
The menu focuses on fresh seafood, including grilled octopus, sashimi platters, and whole fish dishes, which are served alongside creative cocktails and local wines. Anjuna offers a private boat service, allowing for direct collection from anchored yachts just offshore.
- Access: Boat pick-up and tender service available from anchored luxury yachts.
- Atmosphere: Energetic, eclectic, and effortlessly cool.
- Ideal for: Lively group meals, barefoot celebrations, or relaxed afternoons with friends.
La Réserve de Beaulieu – Beaulieu-sur-Mer
For those seeking something more formal and refined, La Réserve de Beaulieu is a world-class hotel and gastronomic destination that has long been a retreat for royalty and high society. Its Michelin-starred restaurant offers gourmet cuisine in a serene, sea-facing setting that feels wonderfully disconnected from the outside world.
Guests arriving by a yacht’s tender boat can access the property from the hotel’s private jetty, making it a seamless experience for those moored nearby. Expect white tablecloths, polished silverware, and a menu that celebrates the flavours of the Riviera with a modern, luxurious twist.
- Access: Tender-friendly landing at the hotel’s private dock.
- Atmosphere: Elegant, quiet, and impeccably tailored for fine dining.
- Ideal for: Romantic meals, private celebrations, or refined escapes from the bustle of the coastline.
Monaco & Cap-d’Ail
Monaco may be compact, but its reputation is anything but. As the beating heart of the superyacht scene, it serves as both a glittering base and a gateway to quieter, hidden destinations just around the headland. Cap-d’Ail, located immediately west of the Principality, offers peaceful anchorages, natural coves, and a handful of refined dining spots that are best enjoyed by sea. Whether you’re stepping off a Monaco yacht or seeking a break from the bustle of Port Hercules, these restaurants offer luxurious seclusion within minutes.
La Réserve de la Mala – Cap-d’Ail
Tucked into a dramatic rocky cove only reachable by foot or boat, La Réserve de la Mala is an icon of Riviera beach club elegance. With teak decking, white-cushioned daybeds, and a sweeping view of the open sea, this venue offers a dreamy escape that feels miles from Monaco yet is just a short tender ride away.
The restaurant menu is Mediterranean with a touch of decadence. Truffle risotto, grilled lobster, and fresh-baked focaccia are staples. Guests can anchor offshore and call ahead for tender service or arrive directly via their yacht tender to the club’s private pontoon.
- Access: Boat shuttle or direct luxury yacht tender service from nearby anchorages.
- Atmosphere: Discreet, upscale, and quietly glamorous.
- Ideal for: Escaping the crowds of Monaco for a tranquil day of indulgent beachside dining.
Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel – Elsa
Just outside Monaco’s busy harbour, Elsa offers a refined and sustainable culinary experience with sweeping views of the Mediterranean. Located within the Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel, this Michelin-starred restaurant is known for its entirely organic and seasonal menu, with produce sourced from local farms and regional artisans.
Tender boats for yachts allow guests access to the hotel’s private pontoon, stepping directly into a world of understated luxury. Elsa’s peaceful ambience and attentive service make it an ideal retreat from the energy of central Monaco.
- Access: Tender-friendly dock at Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel.
- Atmosphere: Serene, sophisticated, and eco-conscious.
- Ideal for: Gourmet feasts or quiet evening dinners after a day anchored near the Principality.
Porquerolles & the Hyères Islands
South of Saint-Tropez lies one of the Riviera’s best-kept secrets: the Îles d’Hyères, also known as the Golden Islands. Among them, Porquerolles stands out as a serene escape filled with protected nature reserves, crystalline bays, and a charming village untouched by overdevelopment. With vehicle access limited and beaches preserved by national park status, the island offers a slower, more natural side of the Riviera, which is best discovered by a yacht or superyacht.
Anchoring off Porquerolles and arriving by yacht tender provides a unique opportunity to enjoy exceptional cuisine in near-total tranquillity. These restaurants embrace sustainability, simplicity, and a true sense of place.
Le Mas du Langoustier – Western Porquerolles
Hidden away on the island’s western edge and surrounded by forest, Le Mas du Langoustier is one of the most exclusive dining destinations in the region. Part of a secluded estate, the restaurant delivers gastronomic excellence in a refined yet rustic setting. It’s far removed from the main port, making access by boat a preferred option for many.
Seasonal tasting menus, locally caught fish, and delicate Provençal preparations make this an unforgettable stop. Reservations are essential, and the staff are well-versed in welcoming guests who arrive by sea.
- Access: Anchor nearby and tender to the private jetty (weather permitting).
- Atmosphere: Quietly elegant, naturally immersive, and deeply regional.
- Ideal for: Slow, multi-course midday meal in total seclusion.
L’Olivier – Le Manoir, Porquerolles Village
Set within Le Manoir on the edge of the main village, L’Olivier offers fine dining with a more accessible location while still maintaining its air of island sophistication. Surrounded by ancient olive trees and manicured gardens, the restaurant features elevated Mediterranean cuisine inspired by the island’s landscape and heritage.
It’s an ideal choice for guests who have anchored just offshore and want a leisurely walk into the village after arriving by tender boat. The ambience is relaxed but polished, with refined service and thoughtful regional wine pairings.
- Access: Tender to the main harbour, followed by a short walk to the restaurant.
- Atmosphere: Lush, romantic, and timelessly Provençal.
- Ideal for: Elegant dining with easy access, especially for couples or small groups.
Villefranche-sur-Mer & La Croix-Valmer
Framed by steep cliffs and colourful facades, Villefranche-sur-Mer is one of the Riviera’s most picturesque ports, offering calm anchorages and breathtaking views just minutes from Nice and Cap Ferrat. Further southwest, La Croix-Valmer, set between Saint-Tropez and Cavalaire-sur-Mer, delivers a more laid-back coastal charm with pine-shaded beaches and crystal-clear shallows. Both locations are ideal for travellers seeking authentic Riviera dining, accessible only by yacht tender from moorings just offshore.
Deliboat – Villefranche-sur-Mer
A modern concept perfectly suited to life on the water, Deliboat brings the restaurant to you. Operating directly from a floating kitchen and delivery vessel, Deliboat serves freshly prepared sushi, poke bowls, and Mediterranean-inspired meals directly to anchored yachts and superyachts in the bay of Villefranche.
Orders are placed via mobile, and meals are delivered swiftly by boat, making this a fun and relaxed option for those who prefer to dine aboard without compromising on quality. It’s an ideal solution for casual lunches on deck while soaking in the views of the bay.
- Access: No need to disembark as Deliboat delivers by tender directly to your vessel.
- Atmosphere: Casual, playful, and perfect for a relaxed day at anchor.
- Ideal for: Families, informal meals with friends, or a private onboard dining experience.
La Plage de Gigaro – La Croix-Valmer
Tucked along a less-travelled stretch of coastline, La Plage de Gigaro is one of the Riviera’s more discreet seaside escapes. With a simple wooden deck built into the dunes and tables set beneath maritime pines, the restaurant is known for its focus on fresh, local ingredients and timeless French coastal cuisine.
Yachts can anchor just offshore in calm, protected waters and tender guests ashore. The beach’s quiet charm, combined with attentive service and a well-curated wine list, makes this an ideal lunch destination for those exploring the coast south of Saint-Tropez.
- Access: Anchor nearby and arrive via yacht tender to the beach.
- Atmosphere: Natural, understated, and refreshingly unpretentious.
- Ideal for: Laid-back dining with panoramic views, especially during quieter months.
Discover the Riviera From a New Perspective With SuperYachtsMonaco
Dining along the French Riviera takes on a new dimension when explored by sea. With so many restaurants accessible by boat, arriving via yacht tender isn’t just convenient, but it’s part of the experience. From chic beach clubs to secluded coves, these destinations offer privacy, beauty, and world-class cuisine.
SuperYachtsMonaco specialises in creating bespoke itineraries for those travelling by yacht or superyacht, combining exclusive dining stops with seamless logistics. Our team handles chartering, moorings, reservations, and local coordination so you can simply enjoy the journey.
Plan Your Culinary Route with Ease
With in-depth knowledge of the coast, we help you:
- Anchor near top restaurants with confidence.
- Coordinate efficient tender boat access.
- Discover hidden gems and iconic venues alike.
Let SuperYachtsMonaco guide your next French Riviera cruise, where every meal is an experience and every stop is unforgettable.
Ready to Dine Differently? Let’s Plan Your Riviera Escape
From Saint-Tropez to Cap Ferrat, the French Riviera is home to some of the world’s most enchanting restaurants, many of which can only be reached by water. Arriving by yacht tender not only sets the tone for an unforgettable meal but also offers access to destinations that remain blissfully out of reach to most.
Whether you’re seeking a beachside celebration, a quiet meal in a hidden cove, or a refined evening along the shore, SuperYachtsMonaco is here to help you chart the perfect course. Our team brings unrivalled local expertise, seamless planning, and a genuine passion for the Riviera’s most exclusive experiences.
Contact us today to start planning your French Riviera cruise and discover the best restaurants along the French Riviera one unforgettable meal at a time. For more yachting information, be sure to check out our blog!