Though technically a sashay across the border into France,this glamorous beach club has been an essential part of Monaco's social life since the 1920s and retains much of its Art Deco style and all of its superb waterfront location. If you really want to make an arrival,step onto the jetty from a private yacht before reclining on a sunlounge by one of the striped cabanas under the scented umbrella pines. The day's most strenuous activities might be a flop into the Olympic-sized swimming pool or treatment at the spa,though you can also parasail and jet ski. Seemonte-carlo-beach.com
CASTELROC
Despite its location on the city walls across the square from the princely palace,this lovely restaurant is strangely overlooked – except,of course,by the Monegasques themselves,who've been eating here since the 1950s. Laid-back,unpretentious and family-run,Castelroc also appeals for focusing on traditional Monaco cuisine such as barbajiuan (pasta stuffed with spinach and ricotta),local octopus in wine,and richly scented cod stew. Bag a seat under a terrace parasol and enjoy glimpses of Mediterranean blue in the yacht-filled harbour below,and don't be too surprised if you find yourself in the company of princes or motor-racing drivers. Seecastelrocmonaco.com
The writer travelled courtesy Visit Monaco and Silversea Cruises.