Nice's private beaches: which to choose, how much it costs
Lounger + parasol on a private Nice beach: what it costs in 2026, what's included, how to book and which beach to choose for your mood.
There is the public beach, where you lay your towel on the pebbles. And then there is the private beach: a sunbed in the shade of a parasol, a shower, a restaurant and service. In Nice, 14 private beaches share the Promenade. Here is how it works, what it costs in 2026, and how to avoid making a mistake.
Nice's 14 private beaches
The City of Nice officially lists 14 «sub-concessioned» private beaches along the Promenade des Anglais: Régence, Les Canailles, Cocoon Beach, La Véla, Hôtel Amour, N la Plage (Negresco), Blue Beach, Le Temps d'un Été, Bocca Mar, Ruhl, Le Galet, Beau Rivage, Opéra and Castel: plus two watersports bases.
Each beach has its own personality: the Ruhl and the Beau Rivage for their central location, the Castel for its festive atmosphere, N la Plage for prestige, and Bocca Mar for modern service.
How much does it cost in 2026?
There is no single rate: each beach sets its own prices according to the row (the front row facing the sea is the most expensive) and the season. Benchmarks checked in 2026:
- the usual range is between €20 and €40 per day for a sunbed with parasol;
- N la Plage (Negresco) is the most expensive: €55 for a sunbed + parasol in the 2nd row, €70 in the 1st row, and €200 for a double bed with parasol;
- a parasol on its own is often rented for €10-15 on top of the sunbed.
A half-day (arriving after 2pm) is sometimes offered at a reduced price, so ask when you arrive.
What is included
The sunbed rate gives access to the equipped beach and, depending on the establishment: showers, changing rooms, Wi-Fi, lifeguarded beach and drinks service. The restaurant is generally open to everyone, sunbed customer or not. Private beaches are still on pebbles, like the entire coast, so water sandals are a must for reaching the water.
How to book
Booking is done online on each beach's website (some, like Bocca Mar, have their own integrated system) or directly on site in the morning. In July and August, the central beaches are fully booked by 10:30am: book the day before or arrive early. In June and September, it is easy to find a spot without booking.
Which beach should you choose?
- Central location, first visit: Ruhl or Beau Rivage, facing the Old Town and Place Masséna;
- Festive atmosphere: Castel, between the Negresco and the harbour;
- Prestige and calm: N la Plage, in the spirit of the Negresco;
- Controlled budget: the western beaches (Le Galet, Régence) are often more affordable;
- Truly free: the public beaches, with municipal showers.
Want to stay near the sea?
To extend your beach days, compare accommodation in Nice and check the actual walking distance to the seafront.
FAQ
How much does a sunbed cost on a private beach in Nice?
Between €20 and €40 per day depending on the beach and the row. N la Plage (Negresco) is the most expensive: €55-70, double bed €200.
How many private beaches are there in Nice?
14 official private beaches along the Promenade des Anglais, listed by the City: Ruhl, Beau Rivage, Castel, N la Plage, Blue Beach, Bocca Mar, among others.
Do you need to book a sunbed?
In July and August, yes: the central beaches are fully booked by 10:30am. Book online on the beach's website or arrive early.
Are the private beaches in Nice pebbly?
Yes, like all the beaches in Nice. Water sandals make it easier to get into the sea.
What is the most expensive private beach?
N la Plage, in front of the Negresco: €55 for a sunbed + parasol in the 2nd row, €70 in the 1st row, €200 for a double bed.
Can you eat on a private beach without renting a sunbed?
Yes, beach restaurants are generally open to everyone, sunbed customer or not.
High-end sea-view accommodation
To extend the private beach experience, compare the luxury and 4-5 star hotels in Nice and the hotels on the Promenade des Anglais.
