By the beach or the pool, enjoy a splashing summer in Monaco

Publication date: 06/06/2024
Make the most of the summer holidays in Monaco, with a getaway the whole family will remember forever. Whether you’re a keen swimmer, a fan of water sports, or simply prefer to kick back and relax by the water’s edge, the Principality has you covered. This summer, you do you! 

Swimming pools 

  • The Olympic pool at the Monte-Carlo Beach: Dive into this huge pool and make the most of its Olympic dimensions, heated water, and a legendary diving board - what more could you ask for? The terracotta-coloured diving board dating from 1929 has been graced by a multitude of styles and celebrities over the years. Will you be the next to take the plunge?
  • The pools at the Méridien Beach Plaza: Like a painting by one of the great masters, the blue of the pool mingles with the azure sky and sea to create an impression of total peace and harmony. Just close your eyes and listen to the lap of the waves from the comfort of your lounger. The hotel has both an indoor and outdoor pool, so you can enjoy the water whatever the weather.
  • The Nikki Beach at the Fairmont Monte-Carlo: Perched on the seventh and top floor of the hotel, the pool at the Nikki Beach boasts a luxuriously exotic vibe. From this prestige rooftop, sit back and admire the sensational 360 degree view, while you sip cocktails to the accompaniment of music courtesy of the house DJ.

  • Amù By The Pool – at the Fairmont Monte-Carlo: A new addition to the Hôtel Fairmont, this pool is within a few steps of the Casino, and commands views of the Mediterranean that will take your breath away. The “Amù By The Pool” concept, created specially for families staying at the hotel, is a unique experience that combines total luxury, relaxation, and world-class cuisine, redefining the ultimate day by the pool.
  • The sandy-bottomed lagoon at the Monte-Carlo Bay Hôtel & Resort: For a total change of scenery, head to the hotel where anything is possible - whether you prefer the classic swimming pool or the stunning lagoon with its sandy bottom, the choice is yours! When the beach comes to you...
  • L'Odyssey at the Métropole Monte-Carlo: The brainchild of celebrated designer Karl Lagerfeld, L’Odyssey is a paradise haven of peace in the midst of the bustling Principality. Settle down by the heated brine pool, surrounded by lush gardens and beautiful decor depicting scenes from Ulysses’ epic voyage. This summer, L’Odyssey will be hosting the Zia Pop-Up, a new concept created by Chef Christophe Cussac that promises unforgettable evenings under the stars with a generous helping of la dolce vita.

  • The pool at the Columbus Monte-Carlo hotel: The pool of the Columbus hotel is a hidden gem with stunning sea views. You’ll find it in a tranquil setting, in a residential district of the Principality   
  • The pool at the Novotel Monte-Carlo: Nestling in the stylish and lively Monte-Carlo district, as if emerging from a mirage, the pool of the Novotel hotel is a veritable oasis of refreshment.
  • The Stade Nautique Rainier III at Port Hercule: Known by locals as the "the port pool", the Stade Nautique is a surprise just waiting to be discovered in the bustling heart of the Principality! Sitting at the foot of the Rock of Monaco, surrounded by the famous Formula 1 Grand Prix circuit and the luxury yachts bobbing peacefully in the harbour, the “port pool” never fails to make an impression. Its convenient location, within easy reach of all the amenities (transport links, supermarkets, etc.), heated brine water pool and children’s facilities (including a water slide) make it perfect for families.

 

Public and private beaches

  • Larvotto seaside complex: With its shaded promenade, large public beach, shops and restaurants, the Larvotto seaside complex is popular with locals and visitors of all ages, whether for a dip in the sea or a spot of sunbathing. In addition to all of these amenities, Larvotto also has a 14 hectare protected marine area to promote local wildlife and provide the scientific community with a real-life laboratory.

For over ten years, Larvotto’s public beach has had a “Handiplage” area, created with the help of the association Soroptimist. The site welcomes people with disabilities and reduced mobility, enabling them to make the most of the sand and sea. Young attendants known as “handiplagistes” are on hand to welcome and assist those with reduced mobility as they bathe.

Take advantage of the Larvotto seaside complex’s private beaches. There are four to choose from: Le Neptune, La Note Bleue, Le Miami Plage, and finally Falco Beach, the brand new waterfront party area that belongs to the restaurant Rose des Vents, recently taken over by businessman Flavio Briatore (who also owns Twiga, Billionaire, Cipriani, Crazy Pizza, and Cova). Each one has its own distinctive vibe, but whichever you opt for, you can look forward to dining on incredible food, to the sound of the waves gently lapping on the sands.

  

  • The Solarium: On the Rainier III sea wall by Port Hercule you’ll find the Solarium, where you can climb down ladders to reach the sea. Perfect for a refreshing dip amid the heat of the Monegasque summer. Please note that the water in this area is deep, and suitable for strong swimmers only.
  • Crique des pêcheurs: The “fishers’ creek” is a hidden cove, sheltered from the elements and from the city above, making it ideal for those in search of somewhere a little quieter and more private. There’s fun to be had in the waves too, as they crash against the shingle. Please note that this beach can be dangerous in rough sea conditions, and access is prohibited at those times.
  • Private beach at the Méridien Beach Plaza: It’s the only seaside complex in Monaco with its own private beach directly accessible from the hotel, perfect for a relaxing day spent by the sea and pool.

 

 

Water-based activities and lessons for kids

Dive into a sea of aquatic activities, from the classics to the more daring, and make your stay in the Principality a memorable one.

  • Gentle water-based activities at the Monte-Carlo Beach: The Monte-Carlo beach has all the ingredients for a fun time with all the family. The hotel has adopted a sustainable policy and offers a selection of environmentally-friendly water-based activities at its private beach, including pedaloes, paddle-boarding, and kayaking. 
  • Thrills and spills at the Monte-Carlo Bay: For more intrepid adventurers who prefer to make waves, the Monte-Carlo Bay is the place to go. With parasailing and wakeboarding, jet skiing, water skiing, and ringo rides, there’s plenty to choose from.
  • 50 shades of blue at the Méridien Beach Plaza: From the hotel’s private jetty, you can try activities including tubing, fly fishing, and banana boats, not to mention jet skiing and water skiiing, for a day packed with all the thrills you can handle.
  • Public paddleboards at Larvotto: Pick up a paddleboard and please yourself with the new public rental scheme at Larvotto. Boards can be hired all year round, via the Equip Sport mobile app. (available for iPhone and Android).

  • The Académie Monégasque de la Mer:  Led by freediver Pierre Frolla, the Académie de la Mer provides children with the perfect introduction to the underwater world. From scuba diving to snorkelling and lifesaving, its week-long summer courses are hugely popular with kids eager to learn about the sea, and how to protect the plants and animals that live in it.
  • Monaco Underwater Explorations Club (CESMM): The CESMM, whose Honorary President is none other than HSH Prince Albert II, invites you to dive beneath the waves and discover the mysteries of the Mediterranean. Diving sessions are available for all levels of proficiency, from beginners to the more experienced. You can dive in the morning and even at night, for an unforgettable aquatic experience.  
  • The Yacht Club de Monaco: At the Yacht Club de Monaco, youngsters can learn the ropes and discover the joys of sailing under the watchful eye of professionals. Summer courses for kids aged 6 to 15 include sailing, snorkelling, paddleboarding, kayaking and excursions in rigid inflatable boats, the perfect way to make the most of the Monegasque waves, while learning all about the marine environment. 
  • The Société Nautique de Monaco: Pick up your oars and head for new horizons with the Société Nautique de Monaco’s rowing courses, for youngsters aged 12 and over. Stay active this summer with the Principality’s oldest sports club.
  • Sea excursions and whale and dolphine watching: See Monaco from the sea and discover the marine wildlife of the Pelagos sanctuary in all its incredible diversity. There are two tours to choose from: Sustainable Whale Watching in Monaco and Monaco Riviera Navigation. Both offer unique views of the Principality from the water, and the chance to spot dolphins and whales.
  • Angling: The sport of angling is regulated in Monaco. The Fédération Monégasque de Pêches Sportives (Monegasque Angling Federation) has published a free map showing exactly where you are able to fish. (Areas marked in green are unrestricted, with the exception of the area by the Solarium). If you are interested in spearfishing, however, you will need a special licence from the Marine and Airport Police Division.

Monaco promises a summer packed with unforgettable memories, and an almost endless choice of fun things to do for the whole family...

Photo credits: crédits photos : Méridien Beach Plaza Monaco / Société des Bains de Mer Monte-Carlo / Fairmont Monte-Carlo-Anthony Parkinson / Benjamin Vergély / Mairie de Monaco / VisitMonaco / L'Académie Monégasque de la Mer