On a budget, Nice's Pebble Beaches still earns its price.
Free (private clubs €20–30+/lounger)
The water is gloriously clear and that postcard turquoise, and free public sections sit between the paid private beach clubs. The hard truth everyone learns the hard way: it's smooth grey pebbles, not sand — bring water shoes, a thick mat, and don't expect a comfy lie-down. In July–August the free stretches are packed shoulder-to-shoulder.