Our vacation accommodation on the Mediterranean coast
Vacation villages, vacation homes and campsites
Azureva’s seaside vacation destinations represent 70 years of expertise in unearthing the most beautiful stretches of coastline where fine sand meets turquoise water. We’ve found those magical spots on the Mediterranean where the cicadas sing, children build castles until the sun goes down, and parents finally rediscover the taste of la dolce vita. Our vacation villages and residences by the sea on the Côte d’Azur and Golfe du Lion promise golden memories that stick to your skin like salt after a swim.
Our vacation residence in Le Grau-du-Roi in Camargue welcomes you for an unforgettable stay. Enjoy a magnificent swimming pool and charming vacation homes for rent.
Perched on the heights of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, our holiday residence offers breathtaking views of the sea and an exceptional panorama. Close to Menton, Nice and Monaco, you will be charmed by this region.
Located just a stone’s throw from the Mediterranean, our holiday village in Cap d’Agde has everything you need for a successful family vacation, combining relaxation and local discoveries.
Our vacation residence in Le Grau-du-Roi in Camargue welcomes you for an unforgettable stay. Enjoy a magnificent swimming pool and charming vacation homes for rent.
Perched on the heights of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, our holiday residence offers breathtaking views of the sea and an exceptional panorama. Close to Menton, Nice and Monaco, you will be charmed by this region.
Located just a stone’s throw from the Mediterranean, our holiday village in Cap d’Agde has everything you need for a successful family vacation, combining relaxation and local discoveries.
Seaside vacation destinations: the great plunge into family happiness
Can you feel that salty breeze tickling your nostrils? That sound of the waves that’s already lowering your heart rate three notches? Close your eyes for two seconds… You’re almost there! Vacation destinations by the sea are that simple promise of happiness that sticks to your fingers (like waffles on the beach), leaves sand everywhere (even three months later), and makes memories for at least the next thirty years.
At Azureva, we have this very simple theory: the sea is the universal playground where everyone becomes a bit of a kid again. After 70 years of watching families build wobbly castles and chase crabs, we can confirm: something magical happens when you put your feet in the sand. That’s why we’ve tracked down some of the loveliest spots in France where the ocean puts on a show. From small Breton coves to the great beaches of the Landes, we’ll take you to the places where vacations by the sea really taste like vacations.
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Well, let’s start with the obvious: the sea is the ultimate antimorosity guarantee. You know that moment when you arrive, put down your suitcases and off you go to see the water? That kind of excitement never gets old. We’ve seen it in 3-year-olds and 83-year-old grandpas alike!
First and foremost, the sea is a natural vitamin D and mood enhancer. Scientists call it “negative ions” (a funny name for something positive, don’t you think?), but we call it the magic of the sea air. That feeling of finally breathing deeply, of letting the wind blow away all your hairy certainties… It’s priceless. Well, it is, but more on that later!
And then, let’s talk activities. Because seaside vacation destinations are an all-you-can-eat buffet of possibilities. Want some sport? Surf, paddle, beach volleyball, kite flying… The list is longer than an ice-cream queue on August 15th. Prefer to take it easy? Architecturally questionable sand castles, shell collections, strategic sunbathing with rotation every 20 minutes… To each his own!
We’re particularly fond of seeing families get together to enjoy these simple moments. The little one chasing the seagulls (spoiler: he’ll never catch them), the teenager who pretends to sulk but always ends up coming out of the water with a smile up to his ears, the parents who rediscover that they still know how to ricochet… On vacation, the sea is a neutral ground where generations mix naturally.
Not to mention the guaranteed “reset” effect. Two days in the water and your brain has already forgotten half your office to-do list. It’s been proven (well, we don’t have the studies to hand, but trust us): the sound of the waves is the best stress reliever on the market. Free, unlimited, and with no side-effects, except perhaps the urge to never leave again.
What's the best time of year to go on vacation by the sea?
So hang on, we’re about to bust a myth: no, the sea isn’t just July and August! After 70 summers (and as many springs, autumns and winters), we’ve got a little guide to the seasons that’ll knock your socks off.
- Spring is our favorite little secret. May and June, when the beaches are still human-sized and nature is in top form. Mimosas in bloom on the Côte d’Azur, the first picnics on tickling grass… And let’s face it, rates that don’t make your credit card cry are no mean feat! We’ve noticed that families who come in the spring often have the satisfied look of those who’ve found the right deal.
- Summer, of course, is the blockbuster of seaside vacation destinations. July and August, when the water finally reaches that temperature where even Grandma is willing to get wet above the ankles. It’s the picture-postcard atmosphere: night markets that smell of cotton candy, sandcastle contests, aperitifs that go on forever while the kids play until noon… Yes, it’s crowded, but that’s part of the magic: the collective energy of a shared sea vacation.
- Autumn, oh autumn! September and October are premium versions of the sea. The water is still warm (thanks to thermal inertia), the beaches are slowly emptying, and the light… That golden light that makes everyone photogenic, even Uncle Michel! It’s the season for long walks on the beach, for kites with room to twirl, and for beach restaurants where you can finally get a table without booking three weeks in advance.
- In winter, we bring out the heavy artillery: spectacular storms to watch from the warm, invigorating walks followed by hot chocolate that has never tasted so good, seafood at low prices… The sea in winter is for real connoisseurs, those who understand that breathing iodine at the top of your lungs in February recharges your batteries for the rest of the year.
Our professional advice? Look at your agenda, look at your budget, and above all, look at what your family needs. Sometimes what you need is the excitement of summer. Sometimes, it’s the rejuvenating calm of the off-season. We have villages open at different times for just that!
What to pack for a successful seaside vacation?
Ah, packing for the sea! That age-old headache where you always end up forgetting the obvious and packing three extra sweaters. Here’s the survival list, tested and approved by generations of our vacationers.
The basic essentials (the ones that, strangely enough, we always forget) :
- Sunscreen. No, last year’s sunscreen at the bottom of your bag doesn’t count. Index 50 for the little ones, 30 minimum for the big ones. And don’t forget to reapply every two hours, even if the sky is overcast (that’s when you get fooled!).
- Sunglasses. A spare pair for the kids, because we all know how it ends.
- The hat/cap/bob (choose your side). Sunstroke is overrated.
- The water bottle. Because hydration is basic, and if you avoid plastic bottles at the beach, the planet will thank you!
The beach kit that changes everything:
- Water shoes. Those ugly things but so practical for pebble beaches or rocks.
- The parasol or UV tent. We have shade in our villages, but on the beach, it’s your territory, your stronghold!
- Beach toys. Even if your kids swear they’re too big for them. Spoiler: they never are.
- The mesh bag for shells. Because “Mommy, look at the beautiful shell” x 157, that’s a lot of volume.
- Quick-drying towels. Game changer absolu when you have to dry 5 towels on 2 square meters of balcony.
Maritime wardrobe:
- Swimsuits: minimum two per person. One to dry, one to wear. It’s mathematical.
- The windbreaker. Even in midsummer. The sea is treacherous at night.
- Light but shoulder-covering outfits. For those evenings when you’ve had too much sun (it happens to the best of us).
- The hoodie. A faithful friend for chilly evenings and unkempt morning hair.
The clever little extras we’ve learned from experience:
- Aloe vera in a tube. For those sunburns you couldn’t avoid.
- Freezer bags. Multi-purpose: beach phone, sandwich, smelly shellfish…
- Laundry sheets. Because there’s no such thing as a spotless seaside vacation.
- Card/society games. For evenings when everyone’s rinsed out but doesn’t want to go to sleep.
The soft cooler. For impromptu picnics (the best kind).
What to pack for a successful seaside vacation?
Because seaside vacation destinations are also about adventure and discovering treasures, we’ve put together our top 10 Mediterranean nuggets for you. Spots that we always recommend to our holidaymakers, and that hit the spot every time!
- Les Calanques de Cassis – nature in its raw state. These Mediterranean fjords between Marseille and Cassis are a paradise for hikers and lovers of turquoise waters. The official Parc National des Calanques website will give you all the information you need to prepare your visit. A little friendly advice: go early in the morning or out of season, it’s magical without the crowds!
- The village of Saint-Tropez – Yes, it’s touristy, but the port with its yachts and colorful facades is still a must-see. The Provencal market on Tuesday and Saturday mornings is authenticity that resists bling-bling. The Saint-Tropez tourist office will help you avoid the tourist traps.
- Les îles d’Hyères (Porquerolles, Port-Cros) – Paradise just a 20-minute boat ride away! White sandy beaches, crystal-clear water and no cars. The Porquerolles website to organize your crossing. We warn you: you’ll want to stay!
- The city of Carcassonne – OK, it’s not on the coast, but 1 hour’s drive away, this fortified medieval city is Harry Potter in real life! Perfect for a day out when the kids have had enough of the beach (it happens). The official website for times and prices.
Pont de Gau ornithological park in the Camargue – Pink flamingos roaming freely, wild horses, bulls… A change of scenery
- just a stone’s throw from the sea. The Pont de Gau park will delight young and old alike. Our favorite moment? The sunset over the ponds.
- Monaco and its Oceanographic Museum – The princely rock is a class act! And the Oceanographic Museum, perched on the cliff, is THE place to go to understand the Mediterranean. The Oceanographic Museum, with its giant aquarium and interactive exhibits, is a guaranteed hit with the kids!
- The Gorges du Verdon – “France’s Grand Canyon”, 1h30 from the coast. Swimming in emerald waters, pedal-boating on Lake Sainte-Croix, perched villages… The Verdon website to prepare this unforgettable getaway.
- Nice and its Promenade des Anglais – 7 km of sea-facing walks, the Cours Saleya flower market, the colorful old town… Nice Côte d’Azur so you don’t miss a thing. A must: eat a socca on the go while watching the sea.
- The city of Aigues-Mortes – This fortified town in the heart of the Camargue is a journey back in time. The ramparts, the pink salt marshes (yes, pink!), the medieval atmosphere… Aigues-Mortes Tourist Office to organize your visit. The salt flats at sunset, it’s Instagram guaranteed!
- Cap d’Antibes and its coastal path – 5 km of walking with your feet almost in the water, with breathtaking views of the Lérins islands. Free, accessible to all, and so photogenic! Antibes Juan-les-Pins for route details.
Here’s a way to spice up your seaside vacation with some eye-catching excursions! The secret is to combine lounging on the beach with cultural discoveries. That way, there’s something for everyone!
Book early to enjoy the best seaside vacation destinations at the best price
We’re going to let you in on an open secret: seaside vacation destinations are like Sunday morning croissants. The first to arrive have the choice, the others have… what’s left. And frankly, after 70 years in the business, we can guarantee you that booking early is the ultimate hack for a successful vacation.
Why book early, it’s smart! First of all, let’s talk euros, because let’s be honest, the vacation budget is always a bit of a sinews of war. Early bird rates aren’t about marketing, they’re about real savings. Like the price of an extra day, or that terrace restaurant you can treat yourself to without feeling guilty. We’ve done the math (yes, we love math): a family booking in January for July can save up to 20% compared to a last-minute reservation. Now that’s pistachio ice cream for everyone for a week!
But money isn’t everything. Booking early means having THE choice. Do you want accommodation with a sea view? The one close to the pool, but not too close to avoid the 7 a.m. “SPLASH”? The week when your cousins can come too? All this is possible if you plan ahead. In June for August, you take what’s left, and sometimes, what’s left is nice but not great.
The ideal calendar for the smart holidaymaker:
- September-November: we start dreaming, comparing and scouting.
- December-January: go for it! It’s THE time for the best deals
- February-March: still good opportunities, especially for less popular seaside vacation destinations
- April-May: summer gets tougher, but you can still find
- June-July: this is a lottery. Perhaps a last-minute cancellation?
And booking early is also psychologically great. That little countdown on the fridge, that prospect of the vacations approaching… It helps you get through the endless meetings in March and the evening homework in April. “Only 127 more sleeps before the sea! – a phrase heard in 73% of families who book with us (a totally made-up statistic, but probably true).
Another thing we’ve noticed is that families who book early arrive more relaxed. It’s normal: they’ve had time to plan everything, to project themselves, to create excitement. No last-minute stress, no “gosh, I forgot to book the kids’ club”. Everything’s taken care of, and all that’s left to do is enjoy.
Our friendly advice: put an alert in your phone for October-November. “Thinking about summer vacations by the sea”. You’ll be thanking us when you’re sipping your rosé with your feet in the sand, thinking “I’m so glad I got there early!
Why book a seaside vacation with Azureva?
Well, this is the part where we have to sell ourselves, but I promise we’ll do it in our usual cash-and-smile style! Why Azureva for your seaside vacation destinations? Because after 70 years in the business, we’ve figured out a few things that others are still trying to figure out.
First of all, we know the music. Family vacations by the sea have been in our DNA since 1953. We’ve seen three generations of holidaymakers, sometimes from the same family! Grandparents returning with their grandchildren to the same village where they came as children… Moments like that always give us the creeps. We know what works: entertainment that’s not namby-pamby, kids’ clubs where the kids beg to go again, aperitifs where parents can finally take a breather…
Our villages aren’t just concrete facing the sea. We’ve chosen spots with a soul. Roquebrune-sur-Argens with its umbrella pines, Port-Leucate and its pink ponds, Saint-Mandrier and its unspoilt peninsula… These are places where you can still find the authentic France of Sunday markets and fishermen returning home in the morning. We’re not in a tourist factory, we’re in the real thing, the beautiful thing, the who-sent-a-good-vacation-at-sea thing.
Value for money is our obsession. We’re not going to lie to you, we’re not Club Med. But that’s just the point! With us, you pay for what really counts: memories, not marble toilets. Our accommodations are clean, comfortable and well-equipped. Period. Luxury is having the beach 5 minutes away, entertainers who love their jobs, and activities for everyone without blowing the budget. We’d rather invest in a great kids’ club than unnecessary gilding.
The atmosphere, that thing that’s impossible to sell but that we have. It’s hard to explain, but there’s an Azureva spirit. Something between the camp of our childhood and the modern vacation village. People talk to each other, children play together, parents have a drink together while teenagers go about their lives… It’s simple, it’s human, and it’s what we’ve kind of lost elsewhere. No all-inclusive wristbands that cut you off from the world, no anonymous room numbers. With us, after three days, the team knows your first name and knows that the kid doesn’t like tomatoes.
Flexibility, because life isn’t always simple. Full board, half board, single rental… We adapt to your budget and your desires. Want to cook to save money? Our accommodations are fully equipped. Want to be pampered? Our restaurant awaits you. Change your mind along the way? We’ll find a solution. After 70 years, we’ve learned that rigid vacations are a thing of the past.
And above all, above all… We love what we do. We really do. When we see a family leaving with stars in their eyes, children crying because they don’t want to leave their friends, parents saying “see you next year” and meaning it… Well, that’s why we get up in the morning. Azureva’s seaside vacation destinations aren’t just about renting oceanfront accommodation. It’s about joining a tribe of people who understand that real vacations are lived together, simply and joyfully.
In summary for your next seaside vacation
Do you feel the call of the open sea? Want to trade in your alarm clock for the sound of seagulls chirping? Vacation destinations by the sea are an enchanted interlude where anything is possible: building the ugliest sandcastle in the world (but with love), eating ice cream at 10am (because it’s a vacation), chasing the waves until you’re dizzy…
At Azureva, we’re waiting for you with our seaside vacation villages, our 70 years of experience, and above all, this simple promise: vacations that really taste like vacations. The kind we still talk about on Christmas Eve, the kind that make childhood memories, the kind that make you want to come back before you’ve even left.
The sea is calling, your swimsuit is impatiently waiting in the drawer, and we’ve already got your deckchair ready. All that’s left to do is choose your seaside destination and book (we explained why early!). Because in the end, the real question isn’t “why go to the seaside?” but rather “what are we waiting for to go there?”