Best Things to do in Saint-Raphaël (Cap Dramont & Île d’Or)

Last Updated on 8th January 2025 by Sophie Nadeau

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Saint-Raphaël is a seaside delight of golden sand beaches, a few Roman remnants and a buzzing nightlife. Home to the shores where you can walk out and reach one of the Côte d’Azur’s most recognised symbols, The Golden Island, this large and bustling resort town has plenty to offer. Here’s your guide on the best things to do in Saint-Raphaël!

sophie nadeau in saint raphael
big wheel in saint raphael

What is Saint-Raphaël known for?

Situated somewhere between Saint-Tropez and Cannes and neighbour to Fréjus, Saint-Raphaël is a bustling seaside resort best known for its beaches and rocky coves. It is home to the secluded île d’Or (Golden Island), which lies just off the coast and is considered one of the most beautiful symbols of the Estérel Côte d’Azur area.

Surprisingly, there are also several golf courses, meaning that golf is the main sport played in town!

cap dramont port
A port in Cap Dramont, on the Saint Raphaël coastline

How long do you need in Saint-Raphaël?

While Saint-Raphaël is fairly large, you’ll probably only need around a day or so as there aren’t a great deal of attractions to visit.

That being said, the seaside resort is home to some 25 beaches, so it’s the idyllic spot for those who love to bathe in the sunshine and enjoy the warm climate of the French Riviera.

sophie nadeau saint raphael

Best things to do in Saint-Raphaël

Head to the beach

The most favoured pastime for those visiting the French Riviera is undoubtedly heading to one of the beautiful golden sand beaches. Saint-Raphaël boasts around 25 different beaches, making it the ultimate bathing spot along the coastline.

sunset at gullane beach in scotland
  • Camp Long Beach (Tiki Plage) – Encircled by red rocks, this small little bay boasts crystal clear and still waters that are perfect for snorkelling.
  • Plage de la Pescade – Another sandy cove, here there are plenty of small crab pools.
  • Veillat Beach – This is the town’s largest and main beach, nestled in the heart of the settlement.
  • Dramont Beach – It’s from this plush sanded beach that you can walk out to the iconic île d’Or (Golden Island).

Basilique Notre-Dame-de-la-Victoire

This beautiful church was built with the hopes of transforming Saint-Raphaël from an ugly duckling into a swan, encouraging people to want to visit and live here. Built-in 1883, the architect Pierre Aublé took great inspiration from the church of Saint Sophie in Istanbul.

This striking ecclesial building is a blend of Byzantine style and Moorish influence, and it is built mostly from pink sandstone taken from the Esterèl mountain range.

basilique notre dame de la victoire
basilique notre dame de la victoire
basilique notre dame de la victoire

Relax in Jardin Bonaparte

This public garden boasts stunning views overlooking the old port and bay. It is a gloriously green pocket of the town, where there are several small play areas for younger children to enjoy.

jardin bonaparte

Admire the boats in the Vieux-Port

The Old Port is found in the heart of Saint-Raphaël and is the perfect spot to go and spy out yachts moored at the marina. While the boats here might not be quite as glitzy (or owned by celebrities) as those found in Saint-Tropez, you can still be sure to see some pretty lavish vessels.

saint raphael vieux port

Musée Louis de Funes

Louis de Funes was once voted as one of Frances’ favourite actors, having played over 150 roles in film and over 100 on stage, Funes was also an acclaimed comedian. The actor frequented Saint-Raphaël often and also filmed many scenes featured in various movies.

The museum is dedicated to the life and work of Louis de Funes, offering visitors small anecdotes, personal objects and stage sets, as well as a fascinating insight into the renowned actor’s life.

Admire The Golden Island (L’île d’Or)

This small island takes its name from the colour it shines at sunset and is renowned for its tower. It is symbolic of the French Riviera, having inspired both cinema and comics. the islet was a particular source of inspiration for Hergé (the creator of The Adventures of Tintin series).

The island boasts luscious Mediterranean vegetation interspersed with small walking trails. Unfortunately it’s privately owned and so cannot be visited. If you stay on the mainland, there’s a small port directly opposite the mainland where visitors can go for a dip in the sea and admire the islet from afar.

cap dramont

Go hiking at Cap Dramont

For some of the best views overlooking The Golden Island (L’île d’Or), head to the nature reserve, Cap Dramont. Characterised by its distinctive red rocks which are native to the massif of the Estérel, at its summit breathtaking views stretch from Agay Bay all the way to the Estérel. From Cap Dramont you can admire beautiful views onto Île d’Or.

cap dramont
View of Cap Dramont and the Île d’Or

Where to stay

Saint-Raphaël is a great spot to stay for those in search of soaking up the sunshine at the beach and, thanks to its many casinos and trendy clubs, a buzzing nightlife. However, most hotels are found just a little further out from the centre of the town. Here are a couple of suggestions of where to stay (based on web reviews):

Le Thimothée : Hôtel & Studios – This relaxed complex of studios offers amenities such as an outdoor pool, garden, free parking and a bar. Situated 2.9 km from the beach. Guests have commented on the friendliness of their hosts. Check prices and availability here.

Best Western Plus La Marina – To be close to the port area, opt to stay here. This modern hotel is situated 2 km from the beach and offers a breakfast buffet, outdoor pool, fitness centre, as well as a spa and sauna for guests to relax in. Check prices and availability here.

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