Nice Beach Beach / Outdoor Activity

Nice, French Riviera –

Leisurely afternoons on the beach are what the French Riviera is all about, and Nice Beach is one of the best places to soak up the sun and the atmosphere.

The city’s long shoreline and boardwalk – the Promenade des Anglais – offer wonderful panoramic views, as well as an excellent place for rollerblading and biking, while the calm Mediterranean waters are a favorite for excursions from high-octane jet skiing to relaxed swims.

Beachgoers should keep in mind that most beaches in the area are rocky, so they may want to invest in a super-plush towel or rent a beach chair at one of the various private beaches, and the shy set should take heed that many female visitors are known to go topless.

The main beach can get extremely crowded during the high season (especially July–August), so visitors may want to walk further down Promenade des Anglais to find a bit of space and privacy, or chat up a local who has access to one of the many private beaches that also dot the shoreline.

As the sun sets, Nice’s rocky beach transforms into a dynamic gathering place where people of all ages take after-dinner strolls or gather in groups to sing, drink, or take a dip in the dark.

Vendors on the boardwalk sell beer, crêpes, and other goodies all day, while groups of bohemian backpackers often provide entertainment in the form of guitar and bongo music.

Anyone looking for a break from the loud bars and clubs – or even an affordable pre-club party – will find that the Nice Beach scene offers a laid-back vibe for ultimate relaxation. Once the surrounding bars shut down, however, the crowd on the beach swells to much larger proportions and the party continues well into the next day.