Best Beaches in Nice France – A Local’s Honest Picks

Your complete guide to the top sandy and pebbly beaches around Nice, divided between public and private access.

🆓 Best Public Beaches in Nice France

1. Villefranche-sur-Mer Beach (Sandy)

Address: Plage des Marinières, 06230 Villefranche-sur-Mer
Wide sandy beach with shallow water
Ideal for families, great local village atmosphere
Easily accessible by train (~10 min from Nice)
👉 Best sandy public beach near Nice

2. Ponchettes Beach (Pebbly)

Address: 70 Quai des Etats Unis 06300 Nice
Pebbled stretch with sweeping panoramic views
Perfect for evening walks and sunset photos
👉 Top romantic spot in the city

3. Carras Beach (Rocky/Pebbly)

Address: 385 Prom. des Anglais, 06200 Nice
Natural rocky cove, perfect for snorkeling
No sand, but crystal-clear water and raw coastal charm
👉 A local favorite for adventurous swimmers

4. Beau Rivage Public Beach (Pebbly)

Address: 107 Quai des États-Unis, 06300 Nice
Pebbled, well-equipped beach near Old Town
Showers, seasonal lifeguards, and great views
👉 Ideal for city-center swims

5. La Réserve Beach (Rocky/Pebbly)

Address: 60 Boulevard Franck Pilatte, 06300 Nice
Secluded and calm, with a rocky shoreline
Perfect for quiet swimming away from crowds
👉 Great for early mornings or solo relaxation

6. Eze Beach (Pebbly)

Address: Avenue de la Liberté, 06360 Èze
Hidden between cliffs with a pebbled shore
Minimal facilities, calm water, dramatic views
👉 Peaceful and off the tourist radar

💎 Best Private Beaches in Nice France

Price range: Approx. €25–€50 per person/day
(Sunbed, umbrella, towel, service and facilities included)

1. Castel Plage (Pebbly)

Address: 8 Quai des États-Unis, 06300 Nice
Pebbled beach carved into the cliffs
Stylish, gourmet dining on-site
💸 €35–€50 per day
👉 Most scenic private beach in central Nice

2. Paloma Beach (Pebbly with some sandy patches)

Address: Chemin de Saint-Hospice, 06230 Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Mostly pebbly with clear shallow waters
Surrounded by pines, very exclusive atmosphere
💸 €40–€50 per day
👉 Chic and serene luxury escape

3. Opéra Plage (Pebbly)

Address: 30 Quai des États-Unis, 06300 Nice
Pebbled beach with classic French Riviera vibes
Central and historical with full service
💸 €30–€45 per day
👉 Refined and accessible luxury

4. Blue Beach (Pebbly)

Address: 32 Promenade des Anglais, 06000 Nice
Pebbly beach with family amenities and water sports
Gentle entry, supervised in season
💸 €25–€40 per day
👉 Great for families with kids

5. Ruhl Plage (Pebbly)

Address: 1 Promenade des Anglais, 06000 Nice
Flat pebbled surface, calm waters, retro decor
Close to major hotels and restaurants
💸 €28–€40 per day
👉 Peaceful and central, perfect for a relaxed afternoon

6. Juan-les-Pins Private Beaches (Sandy)

Address: Boulevard Charles Guillaumont, 06160 Antibes
Sandy beaches with lively bars and beach clubs
Known for its nightlife and spacious shoreline
💸 €30–€45 per day
👉 Best option for sand lovers who want beach + party

Which Beach in Nice Is Your Beach? The Essential FAQ 🏖️