In short
Sainte-Maxime faces Saint-Tropez across the gulf. The best photo spots are La Nartelle beach, the renovated seafront and its bow-string bridge, and the harbour with the Tour Carrée. Bateaux Verts boats cross to Saint-Tropez all year, with departures every 20 minutes from 8:00, for 15.20 to 16 € per adult, so one session can cover both towns.
Sainte-Maxime faces Saint-Tropez across the gulf, with the Maures hills behind it. It is calmer and easier than its famous neighbour, and the boat between the two makes it a great base.
Here is where to shoot and how to link it with Saint-Tropez.
Key facts: Sainte-Maxime beaches, seafront and the boat to Saint-Tropez
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Where | On the north shore of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, facing the town |
| Beaches | La Nartelle, a long sandy beach, and La Croisette, half pebble, half sand |
| Old town | The Tour Carrée, the oldest building in the town |
| Boat to Saint-Tropez | Bateaux Verts shuttles all year, departures every 20 minutes from 8:00 |
| Fare | 15.20 to 16 € per adult, free under 4 |
Sources: Saint-Tropez Tourisme, Les Bateaux Verts and Golfe de Saint-Tropez Tourisme, checked October 2026.
Why choose Sainte-Maxime?
For space and an easy pace. The beaches are wide, parking is simpler, and the town stays relaxed in summer. It suits families and couples who want sea and sand without the Saint-Tropez crowds, with the option to cross over for dinner.
Where are the best photo spots in Sainte-Maxime?
- La Nartelle beach, for long, open sunset frames.
- The seafront promenade, renovated, with its arched bow-string bridge.
- The harbour and the Tour Carrée, for boats and old stone.
- The boat crossing itself, with Saint-Tropez growing ahead of you.
How do you combine it with Saint-Tropez?
Take the boat. Bateaux Verts shuttles cross the gulf all year, with departures every 20 minutes from 8:00, for 15.20 to 16 € per adult. Check the day's timetable. You can start on the beach in Sainte-Maxime and finish in the old port of Saint-Tropez without a car. Our Saint-Tropez photo spots guide covers the other side.
When is the light best?
In the early morning and in the last hour before sunset. Midday sun on a wide beach is flat and harsh. In July and August, start early to keep the sand quiet.
Frequently asked questions
How often does the boat run from Sainte-Maxime to Saint-Tropez?
Bateaux Verts shuttles run all year, with departures every 20 minutes from 8:00 and a last return from Saint-Tropez at 20:20. Check the timetable for the exact day.
How much is the boat from Sainte-Maxime to Saint-Tropez?
An adult ticket costs between 15.20 and 16 €, and children under 4 travel free.
What is the best beach for photos in Sainte-Maxime?
La Nartelle, a long sandy beach east of the town, gives the most open frames. Go early in the morning or in the hour before sunset.
Planning a session in Sainte-Maxime?
Tell us your date and where you are staying. We can start on the beach and finish across the gulf in Saint-Tropez. From 790 € all taxes included, or 390 € for a 30-minute express session, with first images within 48 hours.
Plan my sessionMore reading: the best photo spots in Saint-Tropez, family photoshoots on the French Riviera and hidden coves near Saint-Tropez.
Sources
Times, rules and figures in this guide come from these official sources. Checked in October 2026.
- Saint-Tropez Tourisme, Sainte-Maxime, beaches, seafront, Tour Carrée and markets, checked October 2026.
- Les Bateaux Verts, Sainte-Maxime to Saint-Tropez shuttles all year, every 20 minutes from 8:00, checked October 2026.
- Golfe de Saint-Tropez Tourisme, Bateaux Verts shuttle, adult fare 15.20 to 16 €, departure quays, checked October 2026.