Ondes Beach in Antibes

Swimming Conditions

The water is clear and shallow, allowing you to stand relatively far from the shore. The seabed alternates between sand and rocks, which can be uncomfortable in some areas. For a smoother entry, stick to the right-hand side of the beach where the sandy bottom extends further.

Activities

The clear water and natural landscapes of the cape make Ondes Beach perfect for paddleboarding and snorkeling. Note, however, that there are no rental facilities on-site.

As the day winds down, the beach becomes an ideal spot for a picnic while enjoying a stunning sunset.

Access and Parking

Free parking is available along the road leading up to the beach (Chemin des Ondes) and along the first perpendicular street (Chemin des Nielles).

The beach is also accessible by bus via Line 15, with a stop at “Plage des Ondes.”

Interesting Facts

To the right of the beach stands a small tower built in the 1950s, originally a beach house belonging to the owners of the Villa l’Etoile, located just across the road.

At the far left of the beach, you’ll find the remains of Port Mallet, constructed in the 1910s. These ruins form clear-water pools where visitors often cool off. The port was part of a private property owned by the Mallet family, whose villa stood just above the site.

A charming small beach nestled on the Cap d’Antibes

Located on the west coast of Cap d’Antibes, the Plage des Ondes stretches amidst pine trees and luxury villas. A true gem of the Riviera, this narrow strip of fine sand faces the Golfe Juan, the Lérins Islands, and the Esterel Massif. With its intimate and preserved atmosphere, the beach offers very little space to settle. In summer, you will need to arrive early to lay your towel on the sand.

Clear water and an ideal setting for paddleboarding

With its clear, pristine waters, the beach offers a shallow swimming area where you can stand for several meters. To avoid the rocks and enjoy a sandy bottom, it’s best to enter the water from the center of the beach. Additionally, the area is perfect for paddleboarding. Throughout the year, enthusiasts flock here with their boards to enjoy the calm waters and the breathtaking scenery of the Cap d’Antibes.

Ondes Beach: The perfect spot to enjoy stunning sunsets

Facing directly west, Ondes Beach enjoys optimal sunlight. In the evening, it becomes the ideal place to witness breathtaking sunsets. During summer, many visitors set up on the sand to picnic while taking in this grand spectacle.

The Iconic Tower of Ondes Beach

Upon arriving at Ondes Beach, you’ll notice a small tower on your right. Built on the water just a few meters from the shore, this structure is often explored by curious swimmers. The most determined climb to its top to enjoy a privileged view.

Its origins, largely unknown to the public, date back to the 1950s. It was originally a beach house belonging to the owners of Villa l’Etoile, located just across. From the 1970s onwards, following the nationalization of the maritime domain, the structure gradually deteriorated.

Crystal-clear water amidst the remains of Port Mallet

At the far left of the beach, the remnants of an intriguing structure rise from the sea. Half-collapsed stone walls form small basins filled with clear, shallow water. This crumbling building, known as Port Mallet, dates back to the 1910s. It was a private port belonging to the Mallet family, whose villa was located just above. Over time, the dock structure gradually deteriorated after it was abandoned. Although access is restricted, the site attracts swimmers each year who come to enjoy the calm, transparent waters of the basins.

Mallet Beach: The little neighbor of Plage des Ondes

To the left of the ruins, a narrow stretch of gravel forms Mallet Beach. With its crystal-clear water, it offers an alternative if you were unable to settle on Ondes Beach, which is only a few meters away.