It seems a little crazy to be writing a post about the beach in late October but we’re having such great weather that we keep going to the sea, so I thought I’d share our luxurious day on the beach!

beach in Juan les Pins

The Côte d’Azur has literally hundreds of different beaches, from quiet pebbly coves to long sandy stretches and nearly all are public, open to anyone.  But it also has some private beaches where you can rent a sunlounger and parasol and enjoy waiter service for a day, living the Riviera dream. These too are open to anyone, just at a price.

Nice plage Nice beach

When we go to the beach as a family and with friends we have our favourites – different places depending on the mood that day or the age of the group and so on – and we always go to public free beaches.  (You can find out more about recommended beaches for children here).  But for a rare childfree day JF and I occasionally go to a private beach and while away a few hours on a comfy padded sunbed, being waited on.  We order drinks and lunch and it all feels very luxurious and decadent.  It’s not cheap though!

prices for luxurious day at beach

Here are some photos from this week.

private beach Juan Les Pins

our view from the back of beach

beach Juan Les Pins

beach Juan Les Pins

luxurious day at the beach viewYou can reserve your sunbed in advance at some beaches (like this one, Pirate Beach, in Juan les Pins) but this week we didn’t think it would be necessary, being late October, and nearly missed out. We were in the back row on one of the last available plots!  The main areas with private beaches are Cannes, Nice and Juan les Pins though most towns have at least one. For the price you get the use of the changing cabins, showers and toilets, but let’s face it, it’s a pretty silly price for a regular day at the beach.  For a special occasion on the other hand, it’s not so much to spend for a little bit of luxury.

What do you think?  Would you pay to lie on the beach?

You might like to read more about other beaches in the area: 12 best beaches on the RivieraTop 3 beaches for children on the Côte d’Azur and How to enjoy pebble beaches on the Riviera.

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