Beaches of Menton: Temporary Solutions and Long-Term Plans in the Midst of the Summer Season
The summer season in Menton started with unexpected difficulties - instead of the usual nine beaches, only three are open. At the last municipal council meeting, the cancellation of tenders, legal disputes with operators, and an ambitious project to create municipal beaches similar to Antibes were discussed. The city authorities hope to resolve the main issues by autumn, but already offer temporary solutions for holidaymakers.
🏖️ Current Situation: three beaches instead of nine
This season, guests of Menton can only visit three private beaches in the Sablétte bay. The reason - protracted administrative and legal processes related to the cancellation of four contracts and failed tenders for the remaining plots.
Open beaches: Lot 3, Lot 5, and Lot 7 Closed sections: Lots 1 and 9 (tender canceled), Lots 2, 4, 6, 8 (legal disputes)
“We are actively working to restore the normal functioning of all beach areas,” said Mayor of Menton, Alexandra Masson.
4 July 2026 - date of the last meeting where key decisions on beach infrastructure were discussed.
⚖️ Legal disputes and cancellation of tenders
The municipality decided to cancel the tender for the management of Lots 1 and 9, launched in September 2025. Of the two operators who applied, none met the requirements.
Deputy Mayor Jean-Christophe Storai explains: “The selection of operators was not made by the elected assembly, which creates legal risks. It is better to cancel the procedure than to face an appeal.”
🏗️ Future Plans: municipal beaches following the example of Antibes
The administration is considering the creation of beaches under municipal management - more affordable than private ones, but with better service than public ones. Pilot projects could include:
Children’s beach area with playgrounds Family beach with affordable prices
“Considering the prices in Menton and the purchasing power of residents, such an option would be ideal,” noted the mayor.
September-October 2026 - tentative dates for the approval of new beach operation rules.
🌊 Water quality issues and construction progress
Residents express concern about the change in the color of the sea water off the coast of Menton. This is related to the construction of a breakwater in the eastern part of the Sablétte bay.
Completed stages:
- Breakwater at Rondelli
Upcoming work:
- Shortening the central wedge in the bay
🍋 Perspectives: year-round beaches and Lemon Festival
Thanks to new protective structures, Menton could have for the first time in its history:
Beaches operating outside the season The opportunity to hold events on the beach during the Lemon Festival
“We are doing everything for the transparency of processes and the prompt resumption of normal beach operations,” emphasized Alexandra Masson.
Photo: AXP Photography / Pexels