The French Riviera enjoys a Mediterranean climate with over 300 days of sunshine annually. But when is the absolute best time to play golf? Let's break it down month by month.
Quick Summary
Best months: April, May, September, October
Good months: March, June, November
Challenging months: July, August (heat), December-February (cool)
Spring (March - May)
March
- Temperature: 12-17°C (54-63°F)
- Rainfall: Moderate
- Crowds: Low to moderate
- Verdict: Excellent value, courses greening up
March marks the start of the golf season proper. Courses are lush after winter rains, and you'll often have fairways to yourself. Pack layers for morning rounds.
April
- Temperature: 14-19°C (57-66°F)
- Rainfall: Occasional showers
- Crowds: Moderate (Easter holidays)
- Verdict: One of the best months
Near-perfect conditions. Wildflowers bloom across the courses, temperatures are ideal for walking, and the summer crowds haven't arrived.
May
- Temperature: 17-22°C (63-72°F)
- Rainfall: Low
- Crowds: Moderate to high (Cannes Film Festival)
- Verdict: Prime season begins
Arguably the most beautiful month on the Riviera. Book accommodation early if visiting during the Cannes Film Festival (mid-May).
Summer (June - August)
June
- Temperature: 21-26°C (70-79°F)
- Rainfall: Very low
- Crowds: High
- Verdict: Great, but book early tee times
Long days mean you can play well into the evening. Start before 8am or after 4pm to avoid midday heat.
July & August
- Temperature: 25-32°C (77-90°F)
- Rainfall: Minimal
- Crowds: Peak tourist season
- Verdict: Playable but hot
Serious heat makes midday golf unpleasant. Local golfers play at dawn (6:30am tee times available) or twilight. Many courses offer reduced summer rates. Courses may be dry and firm.
Autumn (September - November)
September
- Temperature: 22-27°C (72-81°F)
- Rainfall: Low to moderate
- Crowds: Moderate
- Verdict: Ideal month for golf
The sweet spot. Summer crowds leave, temperatures remain warm but comfortable, and courses are in excellent condition. Many consider this the best month.
October
- Temperature: 17-22°C (63-72°F)
- Rainfall: Moderate
- Crowds: Low to moderate
- Verdict: Excellent
Beautiful autumn colors, perfect temperatures, and great availability. The occasional Mediterranean storm passes quickly.
November
- Temperature: 12-17°C (54-63°F)
- Rainfall: Higher
- Crowds: Low
- Verdict: Good value, weather variable
Shoulder season begins. Expect some rainy days but also plenty of mild, sunny ones. Excellent rates available.
Winter (December - February)
December - February
- Temperature: 8-14°C (46-57°F)
- Rainfall: Moderate
- Crowds: Very low
- Verdict: Mild by European standards
While northern Europe shivers, the Riviera offers playable conditions most days. Mountain courses may close temporarily, but coastal courses remain open. Pack warm layers and a rain jacket. Lowest prices of the year.
Our Recommendation
For the best overall experience, plan your French Riviera golf trip for late April/early May or mid-September/early October. You'll enjoy perfect weather, beautiful course conditions, and reasonable availability.
Ready to plan your trip? Browse our course directory and start finding playing partners.