The weather in the South should be "beach" weather but who can tell with the changes in world climates.

I would therefore suggest you hedge your bets. My suggestion would be that you take the TGV from Paris to Aix en Provence - that is the fast bit of the train journey. I have not done it yet but I understand the journey from Aix to Nice takes the same time as Paris to Aix.

Stay the night in Aix, do a little sightseeing etc.

I would then hire a car and motor gently down to Cannes taking in the Provencal countryside.

I like Nice but Cannes has better beaches to Nice (which are predoniately large pebbles).

There is a lot to do in and around Cannes if the weather is poor or if it is good just to lounge on the beach.

If the budget can cope go for a hotel on the sea with parking (I happened to be checking on Cannes hotels myself and Accor hotels have some good deals on their Cannes properties).

You do not say how you are returning but if you fly out of Nice you could return the car there and have a day/night there to get the contrast.

Hi burgybrown,

I would stick with your plans, and train to Nice, using Nice as your home base. Although the beaches in Nice are not the sandy ones that you're used to (very large uncomfortable pepples), you can day trip to Villefranche, Antibes, Juan les Pins, or Cannes, for some great ones. Nice also has so much to offer in the way of sites and great restaurants predominantly in the old town, (strolling is terrific)Most of these beaches are accessible by public transportation, so a car is not necessary. Nice has some public/private beach clubs that you can rent a chaisse and umbrella for the day for about 15 Euros, but you still have to deal with the pebbles. Wear beach shoes, and it's no problem with the walking. If you check your guides, you'll see how many lovely little day trips using Nice as the hub, are available. Cannes as my home base would definitely not be my choice, but it's your call. Have fun wherever!