The 5 best straw huts in Grau du Roi

Nestling between the Mediterranean and the Camargue, the seaside resort of Le Grau du Roi boasts golden beaches and a friendly atmosphere. Among the attractions of this popular destination in the Gard region, the paillotes (straw huts) take pride of place. These seaside establishments, veritable institutions on the Mediterranean coast, invite you to relax with your feet in the sand while enjoying sun-drenched cuisine. From lunch in front of the waves to cocktails at sunset, the paillotes of Grau du Roi offer a unique experience, combining local gastronomy, a festive atmosphere and lazing under the Camargue sun. Discover our selection of the 5 best paillotes in Grau du Roi to make the most of your stay in this charming seaside town.

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Also read the Montpellier guide:

• Visiting the Camargue: 12 must-sees and must-dos
• The 6 best beaches in Montpellier
• Visiting Aigues-Mortes: 8 must-dos
• 20 must-see weekend ideas around Montpellier

1. Playa Miramar

Located in the heart of Le Grau du Roi, Playa Miramar is one of the resort’s most popular paillotes. This private beach elegantly combines the comfort of modern facilities with a relaxed, typically Mediterranean atmosphere. Ideal for families, it has a dedicated children’s area where the youngest can play safely while their parents relax.

The Playa Miramar restaurant is open from 10am to 6pm for the beach and from 12pm to sunset for the restaurant. The menu features a balance of creative finger food and elaborate dishes, all prepared using fresh, local produce. The generous portions and meticulous presentation of the plates bear witness to the care taken in preparing each dish. At the bar, you can enjoy original and exclusive cocktails, specially created for the establishment, while admiring the breathtaking sea views.

Playa Miramar’s chic yet relaxed atmosphere appeals to a wide range of customers, from young couples to families. The comfortable deckchairs on the private beach invite you to relax, while the children’s area allows families to make the most of their day. This paillote in Le Grau du Roi is the ideal place to combine relaxation, gastronomy and seaside pleasures in an enchanting setting(25 Avenue Frédéric Mistral, 30240 Le Grau-du-Roi, rated 4.1/5 on Google for 194 reviews).

2. Bamboo Beach

For a real trip to the heart of the exotic without leaving Le Grau du Roi, Bamboo Beach is a must. This straw hut instantly transports you to the sunny islands of the Indian Ocean thanks to its authentic Balinese décor, with typical wood panelling and comfortable deckchairs creating a warm, exotic atmosphere.

Open daily from 9am to 2am, Bamboo Beach offers a complete experience that goes far beyond a day at the beach. Relaxation and idleness are the watchwords of this family-run establishment, where you can be served right on the beach, with your feet in the warm sand. The restaurant’s shaded terrace is also a welcome haven of coolness during the hottest hours.

The menu offers generous Mediterranean cuisine made with fresh produce. The bright colours of the dishes reflect the sunny philosophy of the house. In the evening, Bamboo Beach reveals another facet of its personality by regularly organising live evenings and clubbing events that attract a festive and cosmopolitan clientele. These events make this Grau du Roi straw hut a place to live in its own right, where every visit becomes a memorable experience(Boulevard du Docteur Jean Bastide, 30240 Le Grau-du-Roi, rated 4.2/5 on Google out of 4531 reviews).

If you want to explore the region further, consider visiting Montpellier, just 25 minutes away. The capital of the Hérault region offers a rich historical heritage and a unique Mediterranean atmosphere, which you can discover on the Navaway audio tour.

3. The Estuary

Not far from the famous Grau du Roi Seaquarium, L’Estuaire Plage takes the straw hut experience to a level of excellence rarely achieved. This confidential address stands out for its artistic and quirky atmosphere, where art and gastronomy meet to create a one-of-a-kind ambience. The establishment cultivates a strong identity that appeals to lovers of fine culinary discoveries.

L’Estuaire’s undoubted strength lies in its menu of fresh fish and shellfish, sourced directly from the local catch of the day. Le Grau du Roi is home to the Mediterranean’s main fishing port, so the quality and freshness of the seafood here is exceptional. The menu changes daily as new fish arrive, guaranteeing an ever-changing experience. Alongside the treasures of the Mediterranean, L’Estuaire also offers a selection of exceptional meats to suit all palates.

Open every day from 10am to 11pm, this straw hut in Grau du Roi boasts a remarkable cellar with 40 carefully selected regional and international wines. The special attention paid to food and wine pairings is testament to the high standards of the restaurant. The private beach with its deckchairs provides an idyllic setting for enjoying a few refreshing cocktails while gazing out over the Mediterranean. L’Estuaire is the destination of choice for gourmets looking for authenticity and quality(Plage Rive gauche, accès 45, 30240 Le Grau-du-Roi, rated 4.3/5 on Google out of 368 reviews).

4. King’s Bay

Set majestically on the shores of Grau du Roi, La Baie du Roi lives up to its royal name. This straw hut perfectly embodies the Mediterranean spirit, with its refined cuisine celebrating the flavours of the South. The menu is a culinary voyage of discovery, showcasing the region’s fresh produce in creative, tasty dishes.

The restaurant faithfully reflects the character of its region: warm, authentic, gourmet and generous, just like the sun that bathes the private beach. The hearty portions and consistent quality of the dishes have earned this restaurant its reputation. La Baie du Roi offers extended opening hours to suit all visitors: from 10am to 11.30pm for the restaurant and until 1am for the bar.

One of the major assets of this straw hut is its Bar and Tapas area, which adds a welcome Iberian touch. This convivial space allows you to enjoy the art of the Spanish aperitif while sipping freshly prepared cocktails. The private beach offers the possibility of hiring deckchairs for two people, creating an intimate cocoon facing the sea. The royal yet accessible ambience of La Baie du Roi makes it a favourite destination for lovers and groups of friends looking for a memorable experience in Grau du Roi(520 Boulevard du Docteur Jean Bastide, 30240 Le Grau-du-Roi, rated 3.4/5 on Google out of 462 reviews).

Download the audio-guided tour to discover Montpellier on foot and on your own

Make the most of your stay in the region to discover the magnificent city of Montpellier, located near Le Grau du Roi. Use the Navaway app to guide you through the historic streets of the city and explore its architectural treasures, from the Place de la Comédie to the Arc de Triomphe. The Montpellier audio tour lets you discover the city on your own, at your own pace, with fascinating commentary on each place of interest. It’s the perfect way to round off your seaside getaway with a cultural immersion in one of the most beautiful cities in the south of France.

5. La Réserve

Located on the boulevard du Maréchal Juin on the north beach, behind the Seaquarium, La Réserve rounds off this selection of the best paillotes in Grau du Roi. This recent establishment, run by two childhood friends from Grau du Roi, offers an original concept that is immediately appealing: a calm, authentic atmosphere where well-being is paramount.

La Réserve boasts a soothing atmosphere, far removed from the hustle and bustle of some crowded beaches. It’s the ideal place for those looking for tranquillity while enjoying the attractions of a quality paillote. The flexible opening hours are another major advantage: open from 9am to 1am on weekdays, the establishment extends its opening hours until 8pm on Fridays and 2am on Saturdays, to suit everyone’s tastes.

The cuisine at La Réserve pays tribute to freshness and refinement, with a menu that celebrates Mediterranean flavours. Local produce is worked with passion to bring out its powerful, warm flavour, characteristic of the region. Whether you come for a sunny lunch followed by an afternoon on the deckchairs, or to admire the sunset with a cocktail in hand, La Réserve adapts to your desires. The friendliness and authenticity of the managers create a family atmosphere that is particularly appreciated by regulars and visitors alike(675 Boulevard du Maréchal Juin, Plage Nord, 30240 Le Grau-du-Roi, rated 4.2/5 on Google out of 287 reviews).

When you visit Le Grau du Roi, be sure to discover the natural wonders of the region, including the famous Espiguette beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in France, offering a wild and unspoilt landscape emblematic of the Camargue.

In conclusion, the paillotes in Le Grau du Roi are much more than just beach restaurants. Each has its own personality and offers a unique experience that contributes to the charm of this Camargue seaside resort. Whether you’re looking for the festive atmosphere of Bamboo Beach, the gastronomic refinement of L’Estuaire, the family atmosphere of Playa Miramar, the Mediterranean conviviality of La Baie du Roi or the tranquillity of La Réserve, you’re bound to find the paillote that suits your tastes. These establishments embody the Mediterranean art of living, combining local gastronomy, seaside relaxation and warm hospitality. Don’t hesitate to vary your pleasures by exploring these five not-to-be-missed addresses during your stay in Le Grau du Roi, and extend your discovery of the region by visiting the surrounding towns and natural sites thanks to the Navaway audio tours, which will allow you to explore the exceptional heritage of the South of France on your own.

FAQ – Paillotes du Grau du Roi

When is the best time to visit the straw huts in Grau du Roi?

The straw huts at Grau du Roi are generally open from April to September, with a high season from June to August. To enjoy a quieter atmosphere and good weather, opt for May, June or September. These months offer an excellent compromise between moderate crowds and pleasant temperatures.

Do I need to book in advance for the straw huts in Le Grau du Roi?

Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly in high season (July-August) and at weekends. For the restaurant, it is advisable to book a few days in advance. For deckchair hire during the day, booking the day before or the morning of is generally sufficient, except at the height of summer when it’s better to plan ahead.

What are the average prices in the straw huts in Le Grau du Roi?

You can expect to pay between €15 and €22 for a deckchair for the day, €35 to €50 for a double deckchair package, and an average of €25 to €35 for a meal. Cocktails generally cost between €8 and €12. Prices vary according to location (first line or second line) and time of year.

Are the straw huts at Le Grau du Roi accessible to families with children?

Yes, all the paillotes mentioned welcome families. Playa Miramar even has a children’s area with entertainment and games. Most offer adapted menus and facilities for easy access with pushchairs. The family atmosphere at Bamboo Beach and La Réserve is particularly popular with parents.

Can I access the straw huts without eating in the restaurant?

Most paillotes allow access to the beach simply by renting a deckchair, with no obligation to eat in the restaurant. You can order drinks from the bar throughout the day. Some establishments also offer a catering service directly on the deckchairs for added convenience.