There's much more to Sainte-Maxime than its sunny beaches and southern ambience: it's a place steeped in history, shaped by centuries and civilizations. Born of a Greek trading post before coming under Roman rule, this charming village has seen monks, merchants and sailors come and go. It owes its name to Maxime, an 8th-century nun who is still fervently celebrated every May 14 and 15, during traditional blue-and-white festivities. Nestled between sea and hills, Sainte-Maxime has stood the test of time while retaining its Provencal soul. With its heritage, nature and gentle way of life, Sainte-Maxime invites you on a journey of discovery and authenticity.
1. Visit Sainte-Maxime church
Built in 1762 and enlarged in 1851, the church of Sainte-Maxime boasts a wealth of 17th-century furnishings, including a superb Baroque altar in ochre and green serpentine stone from the Chartreuse de la Verne. Inside, take time to admire the finely carved wooden stalls, listed as a heritage site and a testament to the craftsmanship of the period. The bell tower, topped by an elegant wrought-iron campanile, proudly dominates the landscape and completes the charm of this emblematic edifice.
2. Discover the area with the green boats
Les Bateaux Verts provides an efficient regular shuttle service between the ports of Sainte-Maxime and Saint-Tropez. With a fleet of 15 vessels, it serves several ports in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez: Sainte-Maxime, Saint-Tropez, Port Grimaud, Les Marines de Cogolin and Les Issambres. In addition to regular crossings, the company offers a wide range of excursions to explore the wonders of the region. Opt for a half-day outing, such as a naturalist's escapade, the discovery of the Esterel creeks or the three wild capes. For a full day, discover the islands of Porquerolles and Port-Cros, or Cannes and Sainte-Marguerite.
Embark on a private boat excursion and sail around the Gulf of Saint-Tropez by booking this private boat tour from Sainte-Maxime.
Read more: The 14 most beautiful villages to visit in the Var
3. L'Aquascope, a family boat trip with children in Sainte-Maxime
Take the whole family on an unforgettable underwater adventure, as if suspended in an air bubble above the marine world! Thanks to its immersed, fully transparent hull, the Aquascope offers an exceptional view of underwater flora and fauna, all in a surprisingly comfortable, air-conditioned boat. The guided tour, lasting around 30 minutes, is an experience not to be missed: a magical, timeless moment. Special mention goes to the captain, who is warm and attentive, making sure that everyone has a great time. A must-do!
Read more: What to do and see in the Var The 23 must-sees
4. Aqualand, another family outing with children
Located in Sainte-Maxime, this water park offers 9 attractions accessible to all, in a 100% relaxing atmosphere. You'll find a lagoon, a wave pool, slides, a paddling pool for the little ones, as well as food courts and picnic areas. The park also offers aquagym and swimming lessons in the Archipel indoor pool, which includes a wellness area for extended relaxation. On the food front, La Plage serves up salads, paninis, sandwiches and burgers. For a gourmet break, La Cabane offers ice creams, crêpes, waffles and bubble teas, perfect for cooling down.
Book my ticket to Aqualand water park
5. Visit the Phonograph Museum: an unusual visit to Sainte-Maxime
This limonaire-shaped building houses a remarkable collection of over three hundred devices, tracing the history of numerous sound reproduction techniques: the melophone of 1780, precursor of the accordion, barrel organs, mechanical pianolas, as well as pavilion, cylinder and disc phonographs, not forgetting an automatic singing bird. The journey also includesinventions such as sewing machines, calculators and typewriters, as well as photography, cinema, radio and television.
Looking for another unusual activity to do in Sainte-Maxime? Go here to book your parasailing experience. You'll fly over the Bay of Saint-Tropez at a height of over 80 m, and enjoy a 360° view.
6. Stroll along the marine trail at Pointe des Sardinaux
Aptly nicknamed "Little Corsica", the Pointe des Sardinaux is a magical place where young and old alike can explore the richness of the Mediterranean coastline. It's reached on foot, following the pine-lined corniche towards Saint-Raphaël, just before the Nartelle beach. On site, you'll find shady spots for picnics, a small sandy beach for sunbathing and rocks for observing marine life with the kids. Don't miss two remarkable historical sights: a World War II-era bunker - witness to the landing on August 15, 1944 - andan ancient Roman fishpond, a vestige of a thousand-year-old past.
Good to know: Diving enthusiasts can also explore the seabed, which descends to a depth of 40 meters. Click here to book your scuba diving experience around the islet of Les Sardinaux.
Read more: Where to go scuba diving? The best destinations
7. Discover the Jardin Botanique des Myrtes
Located on the seafront, the Jardin Botanique des Myrtes is a veritable haven of greenery in Sainte-Maxime, where you can discover the wealth of plants typical of the region. This landscaped park, dedicated to Mediterranean plants, offers a pleasant stroll through a rich variety of vegetation: myrtles, lavender, rockroses, arbutus and palm trees grow harmoniously side by side. Explanatory panelsline the route, enabling visitors to learn more about the species on display. From the dwarf palm to the Chilean coconut, the park is packed with botanical curiosities that will delight enthusiasts and casual walkers alike, young and old!
Good to know: The garden also features rest areas, children's play areas and a fitness trail.
8. Hike the sentier du Deffend
Get some height on the sentier du Deffend hike in Sainte-Maxime's hinterland. This well-marked loop trailimmerses you in the heart of Provençal nature, and offers breathtaking views. From the summits, admire a 360° panorama: from the Estérel massif to the Maures mountains, via the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. This 7.2 km loop, with a 280 m vertical drop, takes around 3 hours to complete. Of moderate difficulty, it's ideal for hikers who want to discover the region's natural riches , far from the hustle and bustle of the coastline. For all the information you need about this hike, visit the Sainte-Maxime Tourist Office
Read more: Top 11 hikes in Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur
9. Discover Sainte-Maxime on the little train, an activity to do with children
The little train is a fun, effortless way to visit Sainte-Maxime and the surrounding area. Aboard one of the 54 seats, let yourself be guided through the town, starting from the port. The tour takes you from district to district: the Tour Carrée, the church, and the lively streets of the old town. The 45-minute guided tour then extends beyond the city limits, to the semaphore perched atop Bellevue hill, where you can admire magnificent villas offering exceptional panoramic views.
Discover Sainte-Maxime on board the little train by reserving your seat here.
Read more: What to do in the Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur region? The 21 most beautiful places to visit
10. Relax at Archipel by Aqualand
L'Archipel by Aqualand offers an innovative concept combining pool and wellness area, ideal for swimming, taking part in a wide range of activities or simply relaxing. Swimmers can enjoy a 25-meter pool, while water sport enthusiasts have access to a range of classes including aquagym, aqua tonic, aqua fitness, aqua paddle and aquabike. As for relaxation, the wellness area offers a sauna, hammam, jacuzzi and sensory showers, not forgetting massages to complete the experience.
Where to stay in Sainte-Maxime?
Sainte-Maxime offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets. Here are a few suggestions to help you choose the ideal accommodation:
- Value for money: the Petit Prince
Bookable right here, this small 2-storey hotel boastsa rooftop solarium with panoramic views over the Bay of Saint-Tropez. It's also ideally located, not far from the beach and close to the town center with all its shops. The warm welcome and attentive staff make this a 3-star place to stay.
- The most mythical: Résidence les Tourelles
On the heights of Sainte-Maxime, close to the beach and the town center, this emblematic hotel is housed in a magnificent château, close to the beach and just a few minutes from Sainte-Maxime town center. Surrounded by a 5-hectare park, the setting is truly enchanting. A view of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez completes the picture. Click here to book your stay.
- The quietest: Hotel Jas Neuf
Bookable here, this small farmhouse is located on the outskirts of town, far from the tourist hustle and bustle of the coast, opposite the Sainte-Maxime golf course. The rooms, designed in pure Provencal style, are spacious, with private balconies or terraces, and are mostly arranged around the heated swimming pool surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation. A hotel that offers all the peace and quiet you could wish for!
What to do around Sainte-Maxime?
- If you're in Sainte-Maxime, don't miss the Sillans waterfall , a must-see natural gem in the Var. Located around 1h30 drive away, in Sillans-la-Cascade, it offers an impressive spectacle where the Bresque river falls some 44 m into a limpid, verdant basin. Considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, it is much appreciated for its exceptional natural setting. A scenic lookout offers a panoramic view of the waterfall, perfect for memorable photos.
How do I get to the Cascade de Sillans from Sainte-Maxime?
- By car, take the road towards Sillans-la-Cascade.
- Once there, park your car and walk a few dozen minutes to the lookout point.
- Bring good shoes, especially if you're taking the nature trails around the waterfall.
- Located on the opposite shore of the Gulf, Port-Grimaud captivates with its unique charm and surprising architecture. Nicknamed the "Little Venice of Provence", this entirely man-made lakeside town is the brainchild of architect François Spoerry, who in the 1960s transformed a coastal marsh into a colorful village criss-crossed by canals.
Read more: What to do and see in Port-Grimaud Top 10 must-do activities
- Opposite, Saint-Tropez is a major cultural and tourist attraction in the region, with its marina, narrow streets, luxury boutiques, museums and festive atmosphere.
Read also: What to do and see in Saint-Tropez? The 13 must-sees
See also the most popular things to do in Sainte-Maxime:
