It is the height of summer on the Riviera and there is only one thing in most visitors’ minds: heading to the beach. Even in this unusual 2020 holiday season, our region’s beaches remain the main attraction… and with good reason. The stunning geography, the pristine turquoise waters and the ease of access make the Riviera one of Europe’s favourite seaside destinations. But where exactly will you spread out your towel, set up your umbrella and toss your frisbee? In this article we give you a definitive guide to the best beaches to seek out on you next trip to the Riviera.
Best beach for natural beauty: Balzi Rossi, French/Italian border
There is little competition here. The “spiaggetta” of Balzi Rossi, almost exactly on the border between France and Italy, is widely regarded as the most beautiful of the Riviera. Towering cliffs, crystal-clear water and the dramatic position between the two countries make this a truly spectacular spot. You can only access the Balzi Rossi beach on foot, and although it is technically in Italy, it is best reached from the French side. Walking from Menton Garavan station, cross the border into Italy at Ponte San Ludovico and walk past the Museum of Prehistoric Balzi Rossi, then follow the well-signposted path.
Best beach for people-watching: Nice, France
The pebbly beach that skirts the side of the Promenade des Anglais is a symbol of the French Riviera. Its intense turquoise hues remind you that you have left the climes of Northern Europe behind and that you have made it to the dazzling Côte d’Azur. In the late afternoon, the beach and "la Prom” become the mandatory hangout for holidaymakers and locals alike, who take to jogging, skating, cycling or simply strolling and posting selfies to make the folks back home jealous.
Best sandy beach: Arma di Taggia, Italy
Although pebbles rarely get in the way of a great day at the beach (especially if you are equipped with crocs!), for many beachgoers sand is best. Luckily, there are a handful of sandy beaches dotted along the Riviera, including Villefranche-sur-Mer and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. However, the largest and best sandy beach is at Arma di Taggia, just east of Sanremo. A “Blue Flag” certified beach since 2015, this 1km-long-beach has both public and private areas (lidos). The seaside promenade is lined with bars and restaurants. Arma is well connected by public transport to Sanremo and to the nearby rail station further inland.
Best beach for an après-plage cocktail: Cannes, France
Cannes packs in all the Riviera clichés of palm-lined boulevards, grand hotels and flashy sports cars. It also lives up to the images of champagne-fuelled parties at sunset. If you want to join in the fashionable crowds for a drink or two, you are spoilt for choice with the beach bars of La Croisette. Many of them offer sunbed and umbrella rental, too. For dinner, head to the port area, or search a more intimate spot in the medieval area of le Suquet.
Best beach to escape the crowds: San Lorenzo al Mare, Italy
San Lorenzo is 17km west of Sanremo, but it is a world away: a tiny fishing village with character and charm, and a long beach stretching west where you are sure to find peace and quiet. Though the village is small, it has everything you need including bars, restaurants and shops. You can get there by bus from Sanremo or Imperia, or better still, you can cycle there: the gorgeous cycle path of the Western Italian Riviera goes right through the heart of San Lorenzo. Bike rental is available at several points along the cycle path, including one at San Lorenzo.
Best beach to refresh after a workout: Larvotto, Monaco
If you want to keep fit during your holidays on the Riviera, a great place to run, jog or walk is the Sentier des Douaniers, a hiking trail that follows the breathtaking coastline of Cap Martin. At its western end, the pathway leads you to the Larvotto area of Monaco, where you will find the principality’s largest beach. The sandy beach is well kept and is popular with residents of Monte Carlo, which is only around the corner.
Best beach for easy access: Sablettes, Menton, France
If you want that feeling of leaving your hotel room and stepping right into the sea, then Menton is the place for you. Sablettes is the sandy beach right at edge of the medieval town, providing a spectacular view of the Maritime Alps. The public areas surrounding the beach were recently renovated, and now include shaded shelters to sit and read, mist cooling systems, water fountains, an outdoor gym and lockers to store your belongings. It is all that a public beach should be!
Best beach for families: Bordighera, Italy
A age-old problem faced by families at the beach is finding space, both on the beach and in the areas around it. Thankfully, Bordighera has one of the longest beaches of the Riviera (2km) and there’s plenty of room for everybody. There are large car park areas near the railway station, near the hospital and up in the old town. Kids will appreciate the dozens of excellent gelaterie along the Via Aurelia and the play areas along the Lungomare Argentina, Bordighera’s seaside promenade. There is also something for everyone at the town’s Flea market, which can be found right by the beach the first Sunday of the month.
Best beach for bringing your dog: Ospedaletti, Italy
Many dog owners would not dream of going on holidays without their furry friends. For those who want to enjoy a refreshing dip with their pets, Ospedaletti has a dedicated dog beach at the eastern end of the beach (right next to the cycle path). The beach is just as pleasant for humans too, and it is popular with those who want to find a quieter spot to sunbathe or take a plunge. There is a fenced dog park next to the beach, with a water fountain and plenty of tree shade to cool off during those hot Riviera days.
Riviera Route can help organise your corporate or wellness retreat on the Riviera. Visit www.rivieraroute.com/choose for more information.