Walking along the Promenade d’Anglais in Nice, all I could think was that the Beach Boys would totally love this city. The beaches are mostly rocky, which is a change for us southerners used to the sandy coast along the Gulf of Mexico, but the water in the French Riviera is sky blue. Not dark blue like most deep waters of the ocean, or the teal green of the Croatian coast, but an honest to goodness sky blue. I am not over editing these photos; the water is just that gorgeous! Needless to say, total Beach Boy heaven.

My favorite part of Nice was laying on the beach. For 10-15 euros, you can get beach package including something along the lines of a cushy lounger, an umbrella, free drink and access to a semi-private beach. There are different little bars and beach access points set up all along the coast, interspersed with the option for a public beach. I went for the lounger and my own umbrella under which I could sip a pina colada. I like to think this was my way of going local (it’s 5’o’clock somewhere, right?).

Although the beach is sparkling and gorgeous, if you can pull yourself away from the ocean, there are some other lovely things to do in Nice. On the top of my list would be the hike to Castle Rock, which leads up to an old bell tower and gives an amazing view of the coast and the city.

After climbing back down Castle Rock, you can wander along the Promenade d’Anglais, people watching and admiring that beach you want to be on right now. But before heading back to the beach, take a right and visit the Marche Saleya, the local flower/fruit/food/crafts market in Nice. The flowers are brilliant, the food delicious and the artwork lovely.

If you have time, there are also museums in Nice worth a visit. My first choice would be the Marc Chagall museum, where Chagall’s incredible, massive, vibrant tapestry art is displayed. The audio guide can be a bit long winded, but is still worth it to learn the complicated story being told in the tapestry. Don’t miss out on the mosaic fountain at the end of the museum!

   Photo via http://en.nicetourisme.com/practical-advice/183

The Matisse Museum is the other notable art museum in Nice; not as impressive as the Chagall Museum, but interesting for Matisse-lovers nonetheless, and has a great gift shop! It’s located in a quaint little park next to the Archaeological Museum of Nice.

Ultimately, walk around Nice and soak up the sun and the beauty. I’d recommend a day trip to Monaco and Cannes if time allows; Cannes is a 40 minute train ride away, and Monaco 20 minutes. Most of all, enjoy your beach time and mimosa!

 

xox,

Lauren