Azure Escapes: A Beach Lover's Diary from Nice

#beachtime Nice, located on the stunning French Riviera, offers a mix of pebbled beaches, turquoise waters, and a laid-back Mediterranean vibe. Here’s a handy guide to help you make the most of your beach adventure in Nice. --- #### **Top Beaches in Nice** 1. **Plage de la Promenade des Anglais** - Famous stretch along the Promenade des Anglais. - Pebble beach with crystal-clear water. - Mix of public and private sections (private areas offer loungers, umbrellas, and services). 2. **Plage Castel** - Located at the eastern end of the promenade, near the Old Town. - Private beach club with a restaurant offering Mediterranean cuisine. - Stunning views, especially at sunset. 3. **Plage Beau Rivage** - Just steps from the city center. - A chic private beach with a stylish bar and restaurant. - Great spot for enjoying cocktails by the sea. 4. **Plage de Coco Beach** - Quieter and more secluded compared to the main beaches. - Popular with locals and a great place for snorkeling. - No sand, just rocky coves with ladders for water access. 5. **Plage des Ponchettes** - Close to the Old Town and the Cours Saleya market. - Public and free, perfect for a casual beach day. - Bring water shoes for comfort on the pebbles. --- #### **Tips for Beachgoers** - **Pebble Comfort:** Most beaches in Nice have pebbles instead of sand. Bring or rent a cushioned mat for comfort. - **Beach Attire:** Swimsuits are standard, and topless sunbathing is common but respectful. Bring a light cover-up for exploring nearby cafes. - **Best Times to Visit:** Early mornings or late afternoons are less crowded. Summers are vibrant, while late spring and early autumn are quieter with pleasant weather. - **Facilities:** Public beaches are free but may lack showers and restrooms. Private beaches offer amenities for a fee (around €20–€50/day). --- #### **Things to Do Around the Beaches** 1. **Promenade des Anglais:** A leisurely walk or bike ride along the scenic promenade. 2. **Old Town (Vieux Nice):** Explore vibrant markets and charming streets just a short stroll from the main beaches. 3. **Parc de la Colline du Château:** Climb up for panoramic views of Nice and its coastline. 4. **Water Sports:** Rent paddleboards or jet skis or try parasailing for a thrilling experience. --- #### **Where to Eat** - **Le Plongeoir:** A unique restaurant perched on rocks above the sea. - **La Voglia:** Known for Italian-inspired Mediterranean cuisine. - **Fenocchio Glacier:** Don’t miss this iconic gelato shop with dozens of flavors to choose from. --- #### **Packing Essentials** - Sunglasses and sunscreen. - Water shoes for pebble beaches. - A reusable water bottle (many fountains around the city provide drinkable water). - A beach towel or mat. --- Nice offers a perfect blend of relaxation and activity, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers.