Swimming at Lake Sainte-Croix: best beaches, access and practical advice

With its 2,200 hectares of turquoise waters nestled between the cliffs of the Gorges du Verdon and the hills of Provence, Lake Sainte-Croix is the second largest artificial lake in France — and one of the most beautiful. Its crystal-clear waters, warm from June to September, with no jellyfish or dangerous currents, make it an ideal swimming destination for families and nature lovers.

From Aiguines, the lake is accessible in 15 minutes by car. Here is our complete guide: the best beaches, access and parking, water activities and all the tips to make the most of your swim. If you're looking for other spots, also check our guide to the 10 best swimming spots at the Verdon.

The best beaches at Lake Sainte-Croix

The lake has about a dozen beaches and coves, spread across the municipalities of Aiguines, Les Salles-sur-Verdon, Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon and Bauduen. Here are the four must-sees.

1. Les Salles-sur-Verdon Beach

The largest and best equipped. Fine sand, shallow water on the first few meters (ideal for children), playground, snack bar and pedal boat rentals. Paid parking in summer (5-8 €/day). Arrive before 10am in July-August to find a spot.

2. Pont de Galetas Beach (Aiguines side)

At the foot of the legendary Pont de Galetas, this small pebble beach offers a spectacular setting: you literally swim at the entrance of the Gorges du Verdon. The water here is slightly cooler (the Verdon flows into the lake here). Kayak and pedal boat rental just nearby — perfect for following up with a pedal boat ride through the gorges.

3. Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon Beach

On the west bank, this pebble beach is calmer and more family-friendly. Small free parking, no snack bar — bring your picnic. The water is a deep blue and the view of the surrounding hills is wonderful.

4. Bauduen Beach

South of the lake, the village of Bauduen has a lovely sandy beach with a view of sailing boats. Restaurants nearby, Provençal village atmosphere. Ideal for combining swimming and visiting the village.

Wild coves and secret beaches

For those who prefer tranquility, the lake also offers coves accessible on foot from paths along the shores. On the Aiguines side, several trails lead down to isolated pebble beaches — perfect for swimming in nature, away from summer crowds. Check out our article on the hidden secrets of the Gorges du Verdon to find these hidden gems.

Warning: these coves have no lifeguards or facilities. Plan good shoes to access them and leave no trash.

Access and parking: how to get to the lake

Access to Lake Sainte-Croix is straightforward from the main roads in the Verdon area. Here are the three main access points with their parking.

Swimming with children: our tips

Lake Sainte-Croix is an ideal destination for families. The water is calm (no waves or currents), the equipped beaches have shallow areas, and water temperature reaches 24-25°C in summer. Here are our recommendations for a successful day with young ones.

For more family activity ideas in the region, check out our complete family guide to the Verdon.

Water activities on the lake

Swimming is just one way to enjoy the lake. Water activities are numerous and accessible to all levels:

• Pedal boat — The lake's star! Rental at Galetas and Salles. Budget 15-20 €/hour. Our complete pedal boat guide here.
• Kayak and canoe — To explore the gorge entrance from the lake. A magical experience at sunset. Discover our article on canoe sunset.
• Stand-up paddle (SUP) — Rental at Galetas and Salles. Ideal for navigating the lake's calm morning waters.
• Sailing — Salles-sur-Verdon water sports base. Classes and dinghy rentals.
• Electric boat — Thermal engines are banned on the lake (drinking water source). Only electric boats are allowed — guaranteeing clean, calm waters.

Water temperature by month

Lake Sainte-Croix water temperature varies by season. Since the lake is a reservoir (76 m deep), it takes time to warm up in spring but retains heat in September.

• May — 14-16°C: swimming for the brave only
• June — 18-20°C: pleasant on warm days
• July — 22-24°C: ideal temperature
• August — 24-25°C: the peak, warm and pleasant water
• September — 20-22°C: still very pleasant, much fewer crowds
• October — 16-18°C: end of swimming season

The shoulder season (May-June and September) is ideal for enjoying the lake without summer crowds.

Water quality and safety

Lake Sainte-Croix is a drinking water reservoir, which explains the ban on thermal engines and the exceptional quality of its waters. The water is regularly monitored by the Regional Health Agency and achieves excellent results each year.

Equipped beaches (Salles-sur-Verdon, Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon) are supervised in July-August. Wild coves are not — always swim near other people and constantly supervise children.

Staying by the lake — Villa OVerdon in Aiguines

To fully enjoy the lake without the constraint of long daily trips, nothing beats accommodations in Aiguines. Villa OVerdon overlooks the lake with a panoramic view of the turquoise waters and the gorge cliffs. Just 15 minutes from Pont de Galetas beach, you can combine morning swim and breakfast on the terrace overlooking the lake.

To organize your complete stay, check out our ideal 2-day to 1-week itinerary and our complete guide to Lake Sainte-Croix.

Frequently asked questions — Swimming Lake Sainte-Croix

Is swimming free at Lake Sainte-Croix?

Yes, swimming is free on all beaches. Only parking is paid in summer on equipped beaches (5-8 €/day).

Can you swim with young children?

Absolutely. Les Salles-sur-Verdon beach is ideal: fine sand, shallow water on the first few meters, supervised in summer. Our family guide details all activities suited to children.

Is the water warm in summer?

Yes! The lake reaches 22-25°C between July and August. That's much warmer than the Verdon River in the gorges (15-18°C).

Are dogs allowed on the beaches?

Dogs are banned on equipped beaches in summer. They are tolerated on wild coves, on leash.

Are there jellyfish or dangers in the water?

No jellyfish, no sea urchins, no dangerous currents. The lake is a calm, safe body of water. Only precaution: don't dive in shallow areas and supervise children.