Monaco may be small — the second smallest country in the world, in fact — but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in character. With a population of under 40,000, it’s more a glittering enclave than a sprawling nation. Yet in its compact borders you’ll find high culture, world-class events, and a lifestyle synonymous with luxury. Most people know it as the glamorous home of the Monaco Grand Prix, the legendary Formula 1 race that transforms its streets into a high-octane spectacle each spring. But beyond the racing cars and glossy yachts, there’s another side of Monaco that I discovered during a recent three-night stay: the quiet, sun-drenched elegance of Monte-Carlo Beach.
This boutique hotel, part of the Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer collection, offers a retreat that feels both timeless and of-the-moment. While the surrounding city buzzes with energy, Monte-Carlo Beach provides the perfect balance: seaside tranquility laced with undeniable style. And this summer, that style has been elevated even further thanks to an exclusive collaboration with Parisian fashion label Jacquemus.
The Jacquemus Beach Club
The hotel’s legendary pier and pool area have been reimagined under the playful, sun-soaked lens of designer Simon Porte Jacquemus. His aesthetic is unmistakable: bold yet refined, joyful yet minimal. Picture rows of umbrellas striped in black and white, cushioned chairs and loungers glowing in a cheerful yellow, and towels that double as fashion statements in their own right. It’s less of a hotel setup and more of a curated seaside runway, and it’s open to guests through October 7.
The collaboration doesn’t end at décor. For those tempted to carry the Jacquemus spirit beyond the pool, there are two pop-up boutiques onsite, each open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Browsing racks of breezy dresses, sun hats, and accessories feels like a natural extension of the experience — part fashion, part lifestyle immersion.
Beyond the Poolside Scene
Of course, a stay at Monte-Carlo Beach isn’t just about lounging stylishly. Active travelers will find plenty to fill their days, including the chance to try padel, a racquet sport beloved in France that blends elements of tennis and squash. For beginners, the hotel offers coaching sessions that make learning both approachable and fun.
Those in need of deep relaxation won’t be disappointed either. The spa menu spans everything from tension-melting massages to glowing facials, with Pilates, yoga, and guided meditation sessions available for guests who want to reconnect body and mind. It’s hard to think of a better way to complement sun-soaked afternoons than with a dose of wellness.
And when hunger strikes? Monte-Carlo Beach’s culinary offerings are as indulgent as the setting itself. With four restaurants and a poolside bar, guests can drift seamlessly from a leisurely breakfast to a refined dinner, with plenty of cocktails in between. Fresh Mediterranean ingredients shine on the menus, ensuring every meal feels like a celebration of the coast itself.
A Boutique Hotel with Big Personality
What struck me most about Monte-Carlo Beach is how personal the experience feels. Unlike larger luxury resorts, where it’s easy to feel swept into the crowd, here every detail feels thoughtful and intimate. Whether it was sipping an evening cocktail with the sea just beyond my table or chatting with staff about the history of the property, the hotel seemed to carry the warmth of a private club paired with the polish of five-star service.
The juxtaposition of Monaco’s bustling streets with the serene calm of Monte-Carlo Beach creates a unique rhythm to a stay here. One moment you can be exploring the cultural corners of the principality or watching the glimmer of yachts in the harbor; the next, you’re stretched out on a Jacquemus-striped lounger, the only soundtrack the waves rolling gently below the pier.
The Lasting Impression
By the end of my three nights, it was clear why Monte-Carlo Beach has captured the imagination of travelers for decades. It’s a property that balances history with modernity, exclusivity with approachability, and above all, relaxation with style. Add in the seasonal Jacquemus takeover, and it becomes not just a hotel, but a living, breathing fashion-meets-travel experience.
For those seeking a stay that blends luxury with personality — and who want to see Monaco beyond the racecars and headlines — Monte-Carlo Beach delivers in spades. I left not just rested, but inspired, reminded that sometimes the most memorable destinations aren’t defined by their size, but by the way they make you feel.
