1️⃣ Beach Type & Sand

• Nice (French Riviera)
  • Pebble/stone beaches (galets).
  • Beautiful deep blue water, but pebbles make it hard to walk barefoot → water shoes recommended.
  • Public beaches are free, but many visitors use private beach clubs (€20–30/day for chair + umbrella).
• Vietnam (Nha Trang, Da Nang, Phu Quoc, Mui Ne, etc.)
  • Long stretches of soft, fine white or golden sand.
  • Easy to walk, play sports, or swim.
  • Most are wide, flat, and natural.

2️⃣ Climate & Swimming

• Nice
  • Mediterranean climate, warm but not tropical.
  • Water temperature in September: 22–25°C.
  • Calm, clear sea, but slope can get steep close to shore.
• Vietnam
  • Tropical climate, warmer waters (27–30°C).
  • Gentle sandy slope into the sea → very swimmer-friendly.
  • Some areas (e.g. Mui Ne, Phan Rang) have stronger waves → good for surfing/kitesurfing.

3️⃣ Facilities & Atmosphere

• Nice
  • Very urban → beaches line the Promenade des Anglais.
  • Many private beach clubs with loungers, restaurants, showers, lockers.
  • Stylish, international vibe, can be crowded in summer.
• Vietnam
  • Mix of public (free, casual, local families) and resort/private beaches (with pools, bars, massages).
  • More relaxed, often less crowded except weekends.
  • Rich beach culture: seafood shacks, cafés, luxury resorts.

4️⃣ Costs

• Nice
  • Public beaches: free, but pebbles less comfortable without a mat.
  • Private clubs: €20–30 per person/day for chair + umbrella.
  • Meals/drinks not included in lounger price (extra €20–40 per meal + drinks).
• Vietnam
  • Almost all beaches: free access.
  • Even resort day passes (with pools & chairs) often cost €10–15 or less.
  • Meals & drinks: much cheaper, often right on the sand.

5️⃣ Timing — When to Go

• Nice
  • Morning (8–11 AM): Peaceful, calm sea, best for swimming.
  • Midday (11–4): Hottest, crowded, vibrant club vibe.
  • Late Afternoon (4–7 PM): Best balance → warm water, golden light, sunset views.
  • Evening: Great for a seaside picnic, not for swimming.
• Vietnam
  • Morning: Best (cooler, calmer, fewer crowds).
  • Midday: Still swimmable, but sun can be very intense.
  • Evening: Locals gather, vibrant seafood stalls, beach bars.

✨ Overall Feel

• Nice: Chic, iconic Riviera style, deep blue sea, but pebbly and urban.
• Vietnam: Tropical, sandy, relaxed, warmer, more spacious and natural.

👉 In short:

• Nice is great if you want Mediterranean charm, stylish beach clubs, and city-by-the-sea vibes.
• Vietnam wins if you want soft sand, warm tropical water, space to relax, and lower costs.