South of Toulon’s city center, Le Mourillon is the city’s characterful and unpretentious seaside quarter. Once a fishing village, it now boasts little shops selling Provencal produce, lively bars, and restaurants. It may lack the glamour of Antibes or Saint-Tropez, but its charm lies in its authenticity.
The hilly, narrow streets lead to Le Mourillon’s main attraction: its beaches. Known as the second sunniest city in France, Toulon promises blue skies and sunshine almost year-round. The azure sea sparkles as restaurants and date palms line the shores. Cruise ships remain distant, visible only alongside sailing boats and fishing vessels.
Where to Eat and Drink
Sunday dining is a cherished tradition here. Le Mourillon is home to some of Toulon’s best restaurants, focusing on Mediterranean cuisine. Try AOC 41 for fresh, seasonal fare like confit beef open ravioli with sand-grown carrots and bourguignon jus whipped with bone marrow (starters from €12, mains from €26). For a drink, Havana Cafe spills out into the square during summer.
Beachside restaurants offer everything from classic French breakfasts to freshly caught fish. La Sorga serves an unmissable Caesar salad with breaded chicken and oven-baked potatoes, best enjoyed with a glass of rosé overlooking the sea.
Cultural Experiences
Created in the 1970s, the four man-made beaches are the main draw. Swim in the calm Mediterranean or rent a paddleboard or kayak from the yacht club. Stroll along the promenade, watch locals play pétanque and beach volleyball, and see children enjoying mini golf, trampolines, or churros.
At one end of the beaches, next to a small fishing harbor, stands Fort Saint Louis—a 17th-century fort still used by the French navy. In the heart of Le Mourillon, Saint-Flavien church (built 1868) is worth a visit, and art lovers can explore the Museum of Asian Art or galleries on Rue Lamalgue.
In summer, Toulon’s jazz festival (July 26–August 8) brings free concerts to the beaches. On August 15, the Feast of the Assumption features a spectacular fireworks display from the fort. In spring, La Fête de la Mer sees local producers selling oysters, baked goods, and wine at the port.
Where to Shop
Rue Lamalgue, lined with pale pink and terracotta buildings, is the shopping heart. For gifts, visit Oblada; for chic clothing, try Acanthe. But note: most shops close for up to 3.5 hours over lunch and all day Sunday and Monday.
Pick up artisan cheeses at Fromagerie Grosso, meat at local butcheries, produce at Primeurs Vitamine, and wine at Cave Faubourg du Mourillon or La Dégust Nature. There’s also a fresh produce market every morning except Monday. Saturday mornings are especially lively.
Don’t Miss
The coastal paths extending from each end of the beaches offer stunning walks. Head east past the yacht club to find tiny coves, continuing to Anse de Méjean—a beautiful cove reminiscent of a Greek fishing village. Here, L’Escale is a hidden gem restaurant (closed in winter). Walk the other way to reach Plage de La Mitre, another lovely stretch of sand.
Stay
Le Mourillon has few hotels. Hôtel Les Voiles offers simple rooms with sea views (doubles from €112). For a more upscale option, the four-star L’Eautel in central Toulon (doubles from €119).