Not every great day by the sea requires a long drive. Sometimes the best spots are hiding in plain sight, just around the corner from a city most people only associate with its naval port. Méjean and Magaud are two neighbouring coves on the eastern edge of Toulon, barely 20 minutes from Villa Mauricette. They're not glamorous. They don't have beach clubs or Instagram-famous sunsets. What they have is better: clear water, a real underwater trail, traditional fishermen's huts painted in faded pastels, and a coastal path that connects the two in a gentle half-hour walk.

--- MÉJEAN: WHERE TOULON MEETS THE SEA

Méjean is the first cove you'll reach, tucked below the Corniche Mistral. The beach is pebbled and narrow, but the water is surprisingly clear for a spot this close to the city. The real charm is in the cabanons — the small fishermen's huts that line the shore, painted in blues, greens, and sun-bleached whites. They've been here for generations, and they give Méjean a character that no modern development could replicate. Swim out a few metres and you're above seagrass meadows teeming with small fish. It's a gentle introduction to what awaits at Magaud.

--- MAGAUD: THE UNDERWATER CLASSROOM

A 30-minute walk along the coastal path (or a short drive) brings you to Magaud — a slightly wilder cove with the main attraction: a marked underwater trail (sentier sous-marin). The trail is brilliant. Buoys guide you along the rocky edge, with submerged information panels identifying the species below: sea bream, rainbow wrasse, sea urchins, anemones. It's designed for all levels and is particularly great for children aged 8 and up — educational, safe, and genuinely exciting. Bring your own mask and snorkel. There are no rentals, but the investment is minimal and the payoff is enormous. Our tip: visit on a weekday morning for the clearest water and the quietest experience.

--- THE COASTAL PATH

The sentier du littoral between Méjean and Magaud is one of Toulon's best-kept walking secrets. It follows the cliff edge, dipping through pine groves and opening to views of the Hyères islands in the distance. It's easy, scenic, and takes about 30 minutes at a relaxed pace. You can extend the walk further east toward Cap Brun, where the path continues along increasingly dramatic coastline.

--- WHERE TO EAT

Both coves have a few casual spots nearby for drinks and simple lunches. For something more substantial, head to the restaurants along the Mourillon beaches (10 minutes by car), where you'll find a good range of seafood and Provençal options. Or, as always: pack a picnic. Flat rocks with sea views are abundant.

--- PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Getting there: 20 minutes from Villa Mauricette by car. Limited parking near both coves — arrive early in summer.

• Access: Pedestrian access from the Corniche Mistral. Some steep paths down to the coves.

• Underwater trail: Free, self-guided. Bring your own snorkelling gear. Best conditions: calm sea, good visibility.

• Facilities: Basic toilets at both Méjean and Magaud. No shops or rentals on site. • Best time to visit: May to October. Weekday mornings are quietest.

• Family-friendly: Very much so. Calm water at Méjean, educational underwater trail at Magaud for children 8+.

--- OUR VERDICT

Méjean and Magaud prove that you don't need to drive an hour to find authentic Mediterranean coast. These two coves — quiet, unpretentious, rich in marine life — are the kind of local spots that turn a good holiday into a great one. → Looking for easy, close-to-home beach days? We've got a list of favourites. Chat with us on WhatsApp or book directly at villa-mauricette.com