The first thing that comes to mind when you imagine the French Riviera is obviously the stunning shores along the Mediterranean, which are incredible.

But, if you’re in a city like Nice, with tons of waterfront spots, how do you choose which beach to hit up?

Over the last few years, I’ve spent a lot of time in the Cote d’Azur, so I’ve had the benefit of checking out all the major spots.

Below you’ll find a list of the best beaches in Nice. 

Fair warning, like most shorelines in the Riviera, they’re made of small pebbles, so bring water shoes or sandals to protect your feet!

Oh, and if you’re dying for a sandy beach, just hop the train about 20 minutes to Antibes

Besides having the best gelato in the riviera, they also have one of the few sandy public beaches in the Cote d’Azure.


1. La Réserve

Under the famous La Réserve restaurant, you’ll find a small rocky area that you can picnic in while you enjoy the sun and water.

The water here is lovely for swimming, though the atmosphere of the beach can depend on how rowdy the crowd is.

The last time I was there at sunset having champagne, there were tons of cigarette butts and broken shards of glass littering amongst the rocks.

I’d recommend coming here if you plan on chilling out with some wine and friends or a good book. 

This isn’t the place to bring children, since the many rocks make it fairly dangerous for them.

Address: 60 Bd Franck Pilatte, 06300 Nice, France



2. Le Galet

Le Galet is a beach club along the Mediterranean that’s perfect for anyone looking to spend the day relaxing with a good view, and great service.

Book a table or lounge early if you’re visiting during the summer, as this place gets busy fast.

It’s especially lovely for a late lunch or day of tanning and drinking.

Address: 3 Prom. des Anglais, 06200 Nice, France



3. Plage Beau Rivage

Head to Plage Beau Rivage for a private beach experience, complete with delicious Mediterranean food and stunning views of the sea.

It’s just off the Promenade des Anglais, and very poular with tourists.

It’s a peaceful place to spend the afternoon relaxing with a glass of wine while soaking up the sun.

Address: 107 Quai des États-Unis, 06300 Nice, France



4. Ruhl Plage

With plenty of seating, a delicious menu, and picturesque seaside views, you’ll love spending an afternoon hanging out at Ruhl Plage.

Fair warning, the lounges fill up fast here, as they are one of the first beach clubs open each morning. Get there early if you want a prime spot on the shore!

Address: 1 Prom. des Anglais, 06000 Nice, France



5. Castel Plage

Castel Plage is a prime spot for a day of relaxing by the Mediterranean. 

Their service is solid, the views are beautiful, and the food menu is extensive. 

Fair warning though, they close just before sunset, so you won’t be getting in that golden hour of relaxation.

Address: 8 Quai des États-Unis, 06300 Nice, France



6. Blue Beach

Blue Beach is both a public beach and a private lounge beach club.

It’s just across from the famous Hotel Negresco on the Promenade des Anglais.

It’s a fairly quiet beach club, making it the perfect choice for relaxing all afternoon with a good book and cocktail.

The public area is just as enjoyable, and it’s easy enough to bring your own towel and a bottle of bubbles if you want to have a cheap and chic afternoon in the sun.

Fair warning though, laying on the rock beaches isn’t fun for long. I think it’s totally worth splurging to lay out on a lounge at the club.

Address: 32 Prom. des Anglais, 06000 Nice, France



7. Le Voilier Plage

Boasting a beautiful shoreline, and both a private and public beach access, heading to Le Voilier Plage is a simple choice while in Nice.

The public area is fairly small, so arrive early if you want to snag a pleasant spot.

If you’re looking for a luxurious day of lounging in the sun, booking a spot at their beach club is just the ticket!

They even have a small kids play area, that’s perfect for all the families on vacation who need to keep their children occupied all day.

Address: 58 Prom. des Anglais, 06000 Nice, France



8. Opera Plage

This is the oldest beach in Nice, formerly known as the pavilion of the Opera back in 1889.

The same family has been running Opera Plage for generations, and you can tell with its thought out menu, and delicious wine list.

But my favorite part is that they sell swimwear in case you forgot to bring yours, and they have the option to schedule a massage while you’re there!

Address: 30 Quai des États-Unis, 06000 Nice, France



9. Carras Beach

You’ll find Carras Beach on the very edge of the popular city center, making it the shore most locals prefer to go hang out on.

It’s a prime beach to bring a picnic and just chill, especially if you’ve got a family. The water is also calm, and there’s normally a lifeguard on duty.

While you’re there, you’ll likely spot groups playing volleyball or soccer, which provides the perfect entertainment as you chill on the beach. 

It’s also a brilliant spot to watch the sunset!

Address: 385 Promenade des Anglais 06200 Nice


Wrapping It Up

sunset nice france

After writing this while sitting in chilly Bruges, on what feels like a fall day (even though it’s July), I’m certainly ready to book my next flight back to the French Riviera to enjoy some more time in the sunshine.

Let me know in the comments below which beach you’re most looking forward to checking out.

 

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