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Nice Beaches Guide: Public, Private & Hidden Gems
Planning a trip to Nice, France and wondering about the best beaches? Nice is the jewel of the French Riviera, famous for its crystal-clear Mediterranean waters, pebble beaches, and iconic Promenade des Anglais. From lively public beaches to luxury private beach clubs and hidden coves, there’s a perfect spot for every traveler.
Whether you’re visiting from the US or Europe, this guide will help you choose the best beaches, plan activities, and enjoy the ultimate Riviera experience.
Pair your beach days with our Complete Guide to Visiting Nice, France and Where to Stay in Nice, France for a seamless trip.
Quick Overview of Nice Beaches Guide
Here’s a summary table of Nice’s most popular beaches, including private, public, and hidden spots:
| Beach | Type | Best For | Amenities | Notes |
| Blue Beach | Private | Luxury travelers, couples | Sunbeds, food, bar | Book in advance, central Promenade location |
| Plage Beau Rivage | Private | Families, relaxation | Beach club, restaurant, bar | Great for sunset views |
| Castel Plage | Private | Couples, romantic | Restaurant, lounge chairs | Upscale, intimate |
| Opéra Plage | Private | All travelers | Bar & dining | Central, stylish, convenient |
| Plage Publique de Nice | Public | Budget travelers, families | Free, toilets | Can get crowded, pebble shore |
| Plage de Carras | Public | Sports lovers | Volleyball, walking paths | Less crowded, long walking paths |
| Coco Beach | Hidden / Rocky | Adventure seekers | Natural, quiet | Pebble beach, accessed via stairs |
| Villefranche-sur-Mer | Public | Day trips | Restaurants nearby | 15–20 min train from Nice |
Nice beaches range from free public pebbled shores to luxury private beach clubs, catering to all budgets and travel styles.
Table of Contents
Nice feels like a city where the coastline sets the mood for everything else.
1. Public Beaches in Nice: Free & Accessible
Public beaches are perfect for budget-conscious travelers or those who enjoy a casual, social beach vibe. Most beaches in Nice are pebble beaches, keeping the water crystal clear but requiring water shoes for comfort.
Notable Public Beaches
- Plage Publique de Nice
- Central location near Old Town and Promenade des Anglais
- Family-friendly with showers and toilets
- Best for morning swims to avoid crowds
- Plage de Carras
- A quieter option away from the busiest stretches
- Long walking paths and volleyball nets for active visitors
- Ideal for early morning jogs or evening strolls
Tips: Public beaches in Nice are free, easily accessible, and family-friendly, though pebbles can be uncomfortable without proper footwear.
2. Private Beaches in Nice: Comfort & Luxury
For travelers seeking sunbeds, umbrellas, and full-service amenities, private beaches along the Promenade des Anglais are ideal.
Popular Private Beaches
- Blue Beach
- Central Promenade location
- Sunbeds, umbrellas, bar, and Mediterranean cuisine
- Book early in summer for premium spots
- Plage Beau Rivage
- Family-friendly with accessible showers and dining
- Excellent sunset views
- Castel Plage
- Romantic setting for couples
- Fine dining on-site
- Opéra Plage
- Stylish central beach club
- Food, drinks, and sunbeds available
Tips: Private beaches in Nice offer comfort, convenience, and luxury, making them perfect for a full-day beach experience.
3. Hidden & Secluded Beaches
This Nice beaches guide uncovered some interesting unknown beaches in Nice. For travelers looking to escape the crowds, there are quiet beaches just outside central Nice:
- Coco Beach
- Small, rocky pebble beach
- Access via stairs from the promenade
- Secluded, ideal for photography or a peaceful swim
- Villefranche-sur-Mer
- Sandy shore with restaurants nearby
- 15–20 minutes by train from Nice
- Perfect for a day trip with family or friends
- Plage Mala (Cap d’Ail)
- Hidden cove with turquoise waters
- Accessible via a short hiking trail
- Romantic and less crowded than Nice beaches
Tips: Hidden beaches near Nice are perfect for quiet swims, scenic views, and romantic escapes.
4. Beach Comparison Table: Public vs Private
| Feature | Public Beaches | Private Beaches |
| Cost | Free | €15–€50/day |
| Amenities | Minimal (toilets, showers) | Sunbeds, umbrellas, restaurants, bars |
| Crowds | High in summer | Controlled capacity |
| Booking | Not required | Recommended |
| Family-Friendly | High | Medium to High |
| Romantic / Couples | Medium | High |
| Accessibility | Easy | Easy, central locations |
Tips: Public beaches are ideal for budget-friendly sunbathing, while private beaches provide full-service comfort and luxury experiences.
5. Beach Activities in Nice
Nice beaches are not just for sunbathing—they offer a variety of activities for all travelers:
- Swimming & Sunbathing: Relax on pebbles or lounge chairs
- Water Sports: Kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skis available at private beaches
- Beach Volleyball & Walking: Promenade des Anglais has volleyball nets and walking/biking paths
- Photography & Sunsets: Capture iconic Riviera sunsets, especially from Promenade des Anglais and Plage Beau Rivage
- Day Trips: Quick train rides to Villefranche-sur-Mer, Cap d’Ail, and Monaco
Tips: Many Nice beaches have water sports rentals, walking paths, and stunning sunset views ideal for photography.
6. Seasonal & Monthly Advice
- Peak Season: June–August; beaches are crowded, private beaches recommended
- Shoulder Season: May, September–October; pleasant weather, fewer tourists, calmer waters
- Off-Season: November–April; some private beaches close, but public beaches remain accessible
- Sun Safety: Mediterranean sun is strong; bring sunscreen, hat, and water
Tips: Late May–June or September–early October are ideal months to visit Nice beaches for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
7. Family-Friendly Beaches
| Beach | Type | Notes |
| Plage Publique de Nice | Public | Shallow waters, easy access |
| Plage Beau Rivage | Private | Family-friendly amenities, food |
| Villefranche-sur-Mer | Public | Sandy shore, safe for kids |
| Coco Beach | Hidden | Small, quiet, rocky – supervision needed |
Tips: Families will enjoy shallow waters and accessible facilities at Plage Publique de Nice and Plage Beau Rivage.
8. Tips for a Perfect Beach Day
- Arrive early to secure the best spot, especially in July–August
- Pack essentials: Water, snacks, sunscreen, beach towel, hat, flip-flops
- Mix and match: Start with a public beach in the morning, reserve a private beach for afternoon comfort
- Photography: Sunrise and sunset offer stunning photo opportunities
- Check transport: Train, tram, or walking for hidden beaches outside central Nice
- Day trips: Consider Villefranche-sur-Mer or Cap d’Ail for hidden gems.
Combine your beach day with our Where to Stay in Nice, France guide for nearby accommodation options.
FAQ – Nice Beaches Guide
1. Are Nice beaches sandy or rocky?
Most Nice beaches are pebble beaches, keeping the water clear. Some nearby towns, like Villefranche-sur-Mer, have sandy shores.
2. Are public beaches free?
Yes, public beaches are free but have minimal amenities. Private beach clubs offer sunbeds and restaurants.
3. Can I rent umbrellas or sunbeds on public beaches?
Typically, no. Sunbeds and umbrellas are only available on private beaches.
4. Which Nice beaches are best for families?
Plage Publique de Nice, Plage Beau Rivage, and Villefranche-sur-Mer are safe and family-friendly.
5. Are there hidden beaches near Nice?
Yes! Coco Beach, Plage Mala, and beaches in Villefranche-sur-Mer offer quieter, secluded experiences.
6. How far is Villefranche-sur-Mer from Nice?
About 15–20 minutes by train, making it perfect for a day trip from Nice.
7. Can I walk from Nice city center to the beaches?
Yes, most beaches along the Promenade des Anglais are within a 10–20 minute walk from Old Town or Carré d’Or.
8. When is the best time to visit Nice beaches?
Late May–June and September–early October offer warm weather and smaller crowds.
9. Are Nice beaches safe for swimming?
Yes, water is clear and safe; lifeguards are present on major beaches during summer months.
10. Are dogs allowed on Nice beaches?
Generally, dogs are allowed in off-season; some private beaches prohibit pets.
Before You Leave
Nice beaches offer something for everyone, whether you prefer free public pebbled shores, luxury private beach clubs, or hidden romantic coves. By choosing the right beach for your travel style—family-friendly, romantic, budget-conscious, or adventure-seeking—you can make the most of your French Riviera experience. I hope that this Nice Beaches Guide is helpful in your planning to visit Nice.
Pair your beach day with our Best Things to Do in Nice, France and Where to Stay in Nice, France guides for a complete itinerary.
Pages That Support This Guide
To help with deeper planning, this page connects to detailed guides such as:
- A Complete Guide to Visiting Nice, France
- Best Things to do in Nice, France
- Itineraries For Visiting Nice, France
- Day Trips From Nice, France
- Nice Beaches Guide: The Ultimate Guide to Sun, Sea & Sand
- Best Restaurants in Nice: What to Eat & Where to Find Them
- Where to Stay in Nice, France
