The main beach at Villefranche is one of the best located for easy access and convenient facilities. Situated right next to the charming old port area and just a few minutes walk from the old town, there are both bus and train stops nearby.
This does make the beach quite a popular one for families and so it can get quite busy during the peak summer months, our advice is to head further away from the port end towards the small beach at the east end of Plage des Mariniers. Here you will find a small sandy bat between two stone pontoons that is popular with families and older people. There is a shower here and the facilities of Plage des Mariniers are only a short walk away; you can find toilets, snacks and drinks very easily. The small bay is hemmed in by rocks on either side, making it easy to keep an eye on children and ensure they don’t swim too far away.
Setting & Location
Plage des Mariniers is one of the very few Riviera beaches that has no private sections; the whole beach is public and free to access. There are plenty of snack kiosks and ice cream huts alongside the beach, with free showers and toilets. You can bring a picnic and make this a very pleasant but cheap day out.
Water Safety & Clarity
The beach drops away gradually into the sea, making it ideal for little paddlers and cautious swimmers. But you should note that lifeguards are only on duty here during July and August.
Beach Quality
The pebbles here become very fine towards the water and it is comfortable to lie on and although you can’t make sandcastles it almost feels like a sand beach.
Beach Bars & Beachclubs in Nice
If you want to treat yourself then there are some excellent restaurants along the harbour, with great views of the bay. It is particularly charming at sunset, when the lights from the boats reflect on the water.