Its proximity to the Mediterranean sea and choice of wonderful Monaco beaches is certainly one of the most alluring attractions of living in the Principality, where temperatures in the summer regularly reach the mid 30Cs.
However, if you are not really a ‘beach person’ there are also a number of excellent Monaco pools in which residents and visitors can cool off when the weather heats up. Whilst a large number of apartments for rent or sale in Monaco have private pools, there are also two first-class public swimming pools open all year round.
Our top five Monaco beach or pool options to enjoy this summer
Monaco Beach: Larvotto Beach
Larvotto, arguably the best known Monaco beach, is located on Avenue Princesse Grace. Made up of two coves and stretching 400 metres long, it is a focal point of the Principality and one of the cleanest beaches found anywhere along the French Riviera. A discrete net prevents jellyfish from entering swimming areas, whilst the tiny pebbles are regularly cleaned and flattened to allow for maximum comfort. The beach is split into private and public areas, with a number of fantastic bars and restaurants on the waterfront as well as open-air showers and toilet facilities. The area, which recently reopened after months of closure, will be open until September 13th, from 7 am to 8 pm in July and August, then from 8 am to 7 pm in September.
Monaco Beach: ‘Cirque des Pêcheurs’ or ‘Fisherman Cove’
For the brave-hearted, the Cirque des Pêcheurs is a small beach hidden away from the crowds below the Rocher. Unknown to many, the narrow stretch of pebbly beach is a great place to come if you are looking to soak up some sun in the peace and quiet. It can be fairly intimidating when the seas are rough, however, so bathers must take care and heed the weather warnings. The cove is not under surveillance but there is one shower. The beach is accessed by steep stairs from the Fisherman’s car park.
Monaco Beach: Solarium Beach
Keen swimmers love this Monaco beach, which was created by the sea wall in Port Hercule in the Principality’s Condamine district. Access to the sea is by ladders and the area is hugely popular with locals and young people, who love to dive off the digue into the warm waters. Again, this beach is not supervised and extra attention should be taken when the sea is rough.
Monaco Pool: The Rainier III Nautical Stadium
For those of you who prefer swimming pools to the open sea, the Rainier III Nautical Stadium is an outdoor pool located in the heart of Port Hercule, surrounded by superyachts and Monaco’s iconic buildings. The Olympic-size pool boasts diving platforms of 1m, 3m, 5m and 10m in height as well as a flume and mini slide for kids. Our favourite of a number of Monaco pools, it offers a large area for sunbathing and relaxing. There is also a restaurant where snacks and ice creams are available. The pool, which is only open in the summer months, is supervised by qualified lifeguards.
Monaco Pool: Stade Louis II
Another of Monaco’s pools which is hugely popular amongst keen swimmers is the Olympic pool in the Stade Louis II. Recently refurbished, it is the height of sophistication with state-of-the-art changing rooms, a diving pool and a smaller pool, ideal for children learning how to swim and where aqua gym lessons take place.
The majority of Monaco real estate is within an easy walking distance of a Monaco beach, which predominantly consist of fine pebbles and sparkling turquoise waters, and large pools perfect for swimming. That means wherever you are in the Principality, you’ll be able to cool off.
