Nothing beats plunging into the azure waters of the Baie des Anges on a summer day. But getting out of the water? Ouch! Even with the proper water shoes, climbing a steep mound of galets to get back to your towel can be a humbling experience. No one wants to climb up on all fours but sometimes it’s the only way to avoid a twisted ankle or a humiliating topple onto those blasted pebbles.

Beach managers to the rescue! This year four public beaches are equipped with ropes to help bathers out of the water.

The anchoring posts for these ropes are situated high enough on the beach to avoid sea swells and extend well into the sea. The ability to haul yourself out of the sea with a rope is not only a convenience but a safety measure. Getting tossed around by waves as you struggle at the shoreline is neither fun nor safe.

The ropes are only in place July and August and only at four public beaches: Blue Beach, Ponchettes, Centenaire and Sainte Helene. Let’s hope the city extends it to all beaches next year.

See more information about Nice beaches.