Nice is one of those places where city life and the sea sit side by side. A short walk takes you from lively streets to clear blue water, with palm trees along the route. The coastline feels open and inviting, making it easy to stay for a quick swim or a full day by the shore.
This guide covers everything you need to know about Nice, France beaches, from swimming spots to quieter areas and simple ways to plan your beach days.
If you are planning to explore the French Riviera, this guide on the best beaches in Nice, France is a helpful place to start.
Plage Beau Rivage
Beachside restaurant in Nice, France | Photo Credit: Flickr
You’ll find Plage Beau Rivage close to central Nice and is one of the easiest beaches to reach. The convenient location draws a mix of locals and visitors throughout the day. The public area offers open space for towels, while the private area has loungers and a restaurant.
The water here is usually calm, which suits easy swims and unhurried dips. Early hours feel slower, while afternoons bring more movement and conversation. Many people stay until early evening, when the light softens and the promenade starts to thin out. It’s often included among the best beaches in Nice, France, because of its easy balance of comfort and energy
Beaulieu-sur-Mer
Sunset view of Beaulieu-sur-Mer | Photo Credit: Unsplash
Just east of Nice, Beaulieu-sur-Mer offers a change of pace without being quiet. The town is small enough to explore on foot, and the beach sits only minutes from the train station. So, it’s an easy stop along the coast. Compared to central Nice, the shore feels more open, with fine pebbles and small sandy patches near the waterline.
Plage des Fourmis is the main beach and works well for relaxed swimming. The gentle slope into the sea makes it popular with families, while others enjoy the space and slower pace. Beaulieu-sur-Mer fits nicely between Nice and Villefranche and is great for a half-day visit if you want an easy stop.
Plage de la Réserve
Cliff view at Plage de la Réserve | Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Just beyond the main promenade, you’ll find Plage de la Réserve. It’s perfect if you’re interested in swimming rather than sunbathing. The area feels more local, especially during early mornings when residents come for laps in the sea.
The water stays clear and calm, and the pebble shore feels less crowded than central beaches. A nearby restaurant adds convenience for lunch or drinks after a swim. If you’re staying in Nice for a few days, you might find yourself coming back here more than once.
Coco Beach
Tourists during summer in Nice, France | Photo Credit: Pexels
Coco Beach feels different from most beaches in Nice. Instead of wide pebble shores, rocky platforms create natural spaces for sunbathing and swimming. Reaching the water involves steps, so wearing sturdy shoes makes the walk easier.
You’ll love this spot if you’re a strong swimmer, especially if snorkelling is part of your adventure checklist. Here, the water stays clear and boats pass by in the distance. Coco Beach gives a quieter experience and is often recommended if you want something less busy along the Nice Côte d'Azur coastline. Many visitors describe it as a classic beach Nice experience with a relaxed mood.
Villefranche-sur-Mer Beach
Colorful structures by Villefranche-sur-Mer | Photo Credit: Unsplash
A short ride from Nice brings you to Villefranche-sur-Mer, known for its wide beach and sheltered bay. The water remains calm and is perfect if you only want to take a dip. You’ll also notice more space along the shore compared to many beaches in Nice.
Getting here is simple by train or bus, and some guided options, like a French Riviera private tour, include a stop here. Spending a day in Villefranche adds variety to your trip and gives you a broader view of the coastline beyond Nice.
Exploring the Riviera Beyond Nice
If you have extra time, head out to nearby towns like Antibes, Èze, and Monaco. Each stop gives you a different take on the coast, like wide sandy beaches and dramatic views from the cliffs.
Visiting these places helps you see how Nice fits into the larger region and why the Nice beach French Riviera reputation continues to hold its appeal. You can also opt for a full-day French Riviera tour from Nice. This lets you experience several highlights in one trip without having to worry about routes.
Practical Tips for Beach Days
Essentials for the beach | Photo Credit: Pexels
1. Beach essentials to bring
Pebble beaches are common in Nice, so water shoes make walking and swimming far more comfortable. At a public beach, you’ll need to bring a towel, sunscreen, and anything you’ll need for shade. Private beach clubs take care of the setup, with loungers and umbrellas ready when you arrive. Choosing between public and private beaches often comes down to comfort versus flexibility.
2. Best time to visit the beach
Early mornings are quieter and great for swimming to start the day. The light feels softer, and it’s easier to find space along the shore. Late afternoons bring a more social mood as people gather before sunset.
3. Don’t forget to keep hydrated
Summer days in Nice can feel warm, especially when moving between beaches on foot. Drinking water often helps you stay comfortable and avoid fatigue. Keep a refillable bottle with you, as fountains and shops are easy to find.
4. Explore different modes of transportation
Public transport connects most coastal areas for an easier way to explore without a car. For ideas that pair well with beach time, browse activities and tours in Nice before finalising your plans. You can also do a Nice Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour for fewer things to worry about and fewer things to plan.
5. Eating near the beach
Near the shore, you’ll find everything from relaxed cafés to seafood restaurants with sea views. During busy hours, it’s common to pick up a salad or sandwich and eat close by. Beach clubs give you the option to sit down and enjoy Mediterranean dishes with cold drinks. You can also head a few streets inland for dinner, then come back to the coast when the evening feels calmer.
Planning a Relaxed Beach Itinerary
Spacing out beach visits helps keep each day enjoyable. Mixing central beaches with quieter spots adds balance. Short trips outside Nice break up longer stays and keep the schedule flexible.
Using guided tours or transport passes can reduce planning time, leaving more room to enjoy swimming, walking, and slow afternoons along the Nice, France beaches.
FAQs about Beaches in Nice
1. What are the best beaches in Nice, France?
Popular choices include Plage Beau Rivage for convenience, Plage Castel for scenery, Plage de la Réserve for swimming, and Coco Beach for a quieter setting. Nearby Villefranche-sur-Mer also ranks highly for day trips.
2. Are the beaches in Nice sandy or pebbled?
Most beaches in Nice are pebbled. This keeps the water clear and clean but can feel uncomfortable without water shoes.
3. Which Nice beach is best for swimming?
Plage de la Réserve and Villefranche-sur-Mer offer calm water and good swimming conditions, especially in the morning.
4. Are there free public beaches in Nice?
Yes. Many beaches along the Promenade des Anglais offer free public access. Private beach clubs sit beside them and charge for loungers and service.
5. When is the best time to visit Nice for the beach?
Late May to early September brings warm water and sunny weather. June and September offer pleasant conditions with fewer crowds compared to July and August.
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