When summer sets in on the French Riviera, the sun shines bright and the Mediterranean sparkles, now all that’s left is to find the perfect spot to lay down your towel and dip your feet in the sea. From soft sand to warm pebbles, wild coves to hidden gems, the coastline around Nice is full of ideal beaches for relaxing, sunbathing, and escaping the everyday. Here’s our selection of 5 beaches around Nice, combining iconic addresses and secret spots to enjoy summer a little differently.
Blue Beach – Nice : 10 min walk from the hotel
Located right in the heart of Nice, on the iconic Promenade des Anglais, Blue Beach is a beach-restaurant that embodies laid-back elegance. Perfect for a lazy afternoon or a seaside lunch, it combines comfort, attentive service, and breathtaking views. Here, sunbathing and relaxation come with style, soft loungers, the gentle sound of the waves, and the scent of the sea. Our guests can enjoy a special perk thanks to our partnership with this establishment. It’s the ideal spot for a sunny lunch after exploring Old Nice.
Plage des Marinières – Villefranche-sur-Mer : Train stop Villefranche-sur-Mer
Just minutes from Nice, Plage des Marinières in Villefranche-sur-Mer feels like a postcard come to life. Well connected by the train line and surrounded by lush hills, this public sandy beach offers a picture-perfect setting. It’s great for families or those seeking peace and quiet, a true escape into nature. We recommend arriving early to enjoy the calm morning ambiance and crystal-clear waters.
Plage des Sablettes – Menton : Paid parking / 15 min walk from Menton train station
One of the rare sandy beaches in the region, Plage des Sablettes is just steps from Menton’s historic center. It charms visitors with its tranquil vibe, clear waters, and stunning views of the town’s colorful facades. A pedestrian esplanade runs along the shoreline, creating a vibrant local hub where Menton residents of all ages gather. The area now hosts shops, restaurants, and lively bars, perfect for a relaxed day of sun, swimming, and strolling.
Passable Beach – Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat: Paid parking / train + bus
Tucked away on the peaceful peninsula of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Passable Beach is a small, gently sloping cove surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation and facing the Bay of Villefranche. More intimate than the large urban beaches, this public beach of pebbles and fine sand offers a moment of pure tranquility, ideal for quiet swims or relaxing in the shade of pine trees. For those wishing to elevate the experience with a touch of elegance, a nearby private beach restaurant provides a chic yet laid-back atmosphere, right at the water’s edge. A true haven of peace, far from the hustle and bustle.
Plage de la Mala – Cap d’Ail : 15 min walk from Cap-d’Ail train station
Accessible by foot via a steep path, Plage de la Mala is one of the Riviera’s most stunning coves, tucked between cliffs and Mediterranean greenery. This hidden gem offers a private, unspoiled, and irresistibly chic atmosphere. Between preserved nature, zen vibes, and a sense of seclusion, it’s a true haven for those who love peace, beauty, and extraordinary seaside spots.
From Nice to Menton, including a few quieter corners in between, the French Riviera is filled with beaches to suit every mood, family-friendly, glamorous, secret, or fully immersed in nature. Whether you prefer calm coves, warm pebbles, or soft sand, these five beach spots each offer a unique way to experience summer and truly unwind. Grab your towel, your escape starts now !