The French Riviera has 100+ beaches, half private (€30–€80 daybed), half public (free). The water is colder than the Med elsewhere. Pick the right one for your month and style.
Three things surprise foreigners: 1) "Plages privées" are private concessions ON public beaches — you must pay for the daybed, but the sand is legally accessible (you can walk past). 2) The water is colder than you think — 18°C in June, 23°C in August. 3) Some beaches are nudist (Plage de la Mala, Cap d'Agde) — visit accordingly.
The hidden coast: between Nice and Menton, the sentier du littoral (coastal path) leads to coves (calanques) that aren't on tourist maps. Most require a 30+ min hike down — worth it for the solitude.
The specific beach that fits your style, area, and budget — with access, water temp, and crowd level.
Plage essentials — parasol rules, jellyfish alerts, the famous "cigarette + pastis" police situation.
Backup options if your pick is crowded or closed.
Yes — France has no law against topless. Tolerated on most beaches. Local custom varies: family beaches (St-Tropez public) more mixed; private clubs often more topless-friendly.
Subjective. Plage de la Mala (Cap d'Ail) is a frequent "most beautiful." Plage de l'Ours near Cassis for white cliffs. Palombaggia (Corse) for white sand + turquoise — but technically Corsica.
Historic concessions granted by the state in the 19th century for hotels (Négresco, Carlton). They pay a tax and provide lifeguards. The sand itself is public; only the daybed is private.