Endless Summer in Saint Tropez with Alexandra
Nestled on the sun-drenched shores of the French Riviera, Saint-Tropez stands as the quintessential emblem of the region. For the traveler seeking a weekend escape, this iconic destination offers a seamless blend of elegance and vibrant charm. From its glamorous yacht-filled harbor to its exclusive boutiques and world-class dining, Saint-Tropez promises an unparalleled experience tailored to those who appreciate the admirable things in life. Prepare to indulge in a curated selection of experiences defining the very essence of refined leisure as we hear from our very own, Alexandra Dupont, who recently spent time there.
Let’s jump right in. Your plane has landed, the boat is securely docked, and your vacation has officially started. Which beach club are you choosing to visit first?
Favorite Beach Clubs: Le Club 55, Loulou Ramatuelle, Indie Beach, La Réserve à la Plage
If you’re looking for a laid-back beach day, La Réserve à la Plage is one of my favorite options. We spent the morning sailing around Saint Tropez and anchored for a 3:00 PM lunch reservation. The meal was one of my favorites on the trip, focusing on fresh coastal Mediterranean in a relaxed bohemian atmosphere. They have a DJ playing in the background, but it’s not a party scene like you have with Shellona, Casa Amor, and Indie.
At the top of everyone’s beach club list is Le Club 55, and for good reason. This is by far my favorite beach club in Pampelonne, and we ended up spending most of our days there. The low-key and old-school vibe of the beach club was perfect for a late morning or two, and by the time we were seated for lunch at the restaurant around 3:00 PM, the energy was picking back up for another fun afternoon. The boutique is one of my favorite parts of the experience, offering chic beachwear, accessories, and home goods.
Pro Tip: If you can’t get a lunch reservation or don’t want to sit down for a full meal, the cafe at the beach club has bar seating and a few tables that are first come first serve. They also offer to-go food that you can bring back to your beach chairs.
Indie Beach is one of my favorite spots for an upbeat lunch and day party. They have a great DJ lineup throughout the summer, and you can either go for a late lunch reservation to ensure you have a table for the party or head to the bar as a walk-in.
As the sun sets and you and your friends are refreshed and ready, an evening filled with delicious eats, flowing drinks, and a captivating ambiance awaits. Which restaurant will you choose for dinner?
Favorite Dinners: Salama Saint Tropez, Restaurant La Ramade, NAŌ Saint-Tropez, Gigi Rigolatto Saint-Tropez
We stumbled upon Restaurant La Ramade one night while walking around looking for a low-key dinner option. The tables are set up in a quiet garden just behind the Place Des Lices, with lights strung throughout the trees creating a backyard feel. For a quiet night with good wine and great food, this was the perfect spot.
If you’re looking for a lively dinner, Salama Saint Tropez and NAŌ Saint-Tropez are at the top of the list. Beginning at 10:30 PM, the second seating at Salama Saint Tropez merges Moroccan fare with an upbeat, DJ-focused atmosphere.
NAŌ Saint-Tropez is located on the Place Des Lices, with an Asian-inspired menu and strong DJ lineup that blends the evening into a late-night party.
As far as cuisine, Gigi Rigolatto Saint-Tropez was our absolute favorite meal of the trip. We went for dinner, but the menu was the same for lunch. Both services offer live music with the promise of a chic and relaxing atmosphere.
Whether you're looking for an aperitif at sunset or post-dinner cocktails, where are the top spots to enjoy a drink?
Favorite Cocktail Spots: B. at Byblos Lounge Bar Saint-Tropez, Restaurant Arnaud Donckele & Maxime Frédéric at Louis Vuitton, Jardin Tropezina, Café de Paris
B. at Byblos Lounge Bar Saint-Tropez is situated around the Hotel Byblos pool, with craft cocktails and a great scene. We ended up here after dinner at Cucina Byblos, and it was the perfect vibe to kick off our night out.
We stopped at the Restaurant Arnaud Donckele & Maxime Frédéric at Louis Vuitton to grab a quick drink after walking around town. It was a cute spot for a post-shopping cocktail, situated in the heart of town.
Café de Paris is located along the port, with tables lining the street, perfect for people watching.
Set on Pampelonne Beach, Jardin Tropezina is the perfect place to end the day, with live music on the beach every night for sunset. The space lives up to the name, covered in greenery with stunning views of the Sea. We went here for drinks after a day on the beach and before heading home to get ready for an evening out.
And lastly, when it comes to shopping, what are your favorite areas or boutiques to visit?
8 degrees Sud, Tressé Saint-Tropez, ZHIGGIE, Gas Bijoux
Pro Tip: Make sure to check out the Place des Lices Market every Tuesday and Saturday!
Contributor — Jesika Roye Rubin | Head of Relationships
Currently residing in Chicago yet hails from New York where a decade in the vibrant city infuses a memorable touch to curate unforgettable moments within an atmosphere of relaxed yet refined luxury. Jesika brings an undeniable passion for fostering meaningful connections, building strong partnerships, ensuring collaborative success, and client satisfaction to each task. Outside of work, you'll find her unwinding on glistening beaches or hitting the slopes for skiing adventures indulging in a passion for both seaside serenity and winter thrills.