Barco Beach

Barco Beach sits on Plage de la Nartelle, the long run of fine sand east of Sainte-Maxime that holds most of the town's private beaches. It was started in 2001 by a young couple as a family beach restaurant and has kept that character: the building stands a little above the sand, so the terrace and the upstairs dining room look out over the whole beach and the gulf, while the loungers are laid out below with service brought down to them. The kitchen works a plancha for fish and meat and adds travel-inspired plates such as curry, tataki and ceviche alongside the daily suggestions. The beach is set up for children and has access for reduced mobility. Reservations are taken by telephone only. The season runs from early March to the start of October, with the restaurant open from breakfast to late evening in high summer.