Larvotto Beach

Monaco's main public beach — free, renovated in 2021, with showers, lifeguards, a jellyfish net, and wheelchair access, steps from the new Mareterra district. It's fine-gravel rather than sand, and in July-August it's towel-to-towel by mid-morning. A friend would send you for a convenient swim, not for a wild-beach experience.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

How crowded does it get?

Very, in July and August — arrive before 10:00 or accept a sliver of gravel. June and September are the sweet spot: warm sea, full facilities, half the bodies.

Is Larvotto Beach free?

Yes — the public beach is free year-round, including showers, toilets, and lifeguard supervision in season. You only pay if you rent a lounger from one of the private beach restaurants along the promenade.

Are there places to eat on the beach?

Yes — the promenade has several beach restaurants like Miami Plage and La Rose des Vents doing Italian and grilled seafood, most with lounger service. A cheaper move: grab a sandwich in town and use the free public stretch.

Can I smoke or vape on the beach?

No — smoking and vaping are banned on Larvotto. It's actively enforced, in keeping with Monaco's generally strict public-order rules.

Is Larvotto accessible for wheelchair users?

Yes — it's one of the better-equipped beaches on this coast, with accessible facilities and ramps for reduced mobility, plus shallow calm water. Summer lifeguards can advise on water-access equipment.

What's the jellyfish net about?

The swimming zone is enclosed by a protective net because jellyfish blooms drift along this coast in summer. Inside the net you can swim untroubled — it's one of the more reassuring features of an otherwise jellyfish-prone sea.

What else is nearby?

The Japanese Garden is a five-minute walk along Avenue Princesse Grace, and the new Mareterra eco-district with its seaside promenade connects directly. You can build a lazy half-day around beach, garden, and a promenade stroll.

Is it sand or pebbles?

Neither exactly — it's fine imported gravel and small smooth pebbles, comfortable enough barefoot but pack water shoes for kids. The water entry is shallow and calm, which makes it great for families.

Nearby in Ask Monaco

• LarvottoNeighborhood0.23 km · 3 min walk
• La Note BleueRestaurant0.24 km · 3 min walk
• Plage du Larvotto (Public Section)Beach0.24 km · 3 min walk
• Nouveau Musée National de Monaco – Villa SauberAttraction0.25 km · 3 min walk
• Larvotto Beach ParkPark0.27 km · 3 min walk