I've only been to Nice. But the beaches have no sand... it's all rocks/pebbles. But walking along the water on the sidewalk is pretty nice, especially during sunset. I wasn't there long enough to give you advise on places to visit, eat, and sleep. But when choosing a place to eat, its usually good to stay away from the tourist spots and try to find restaurants that the locals go to.

Hello bcn!
Do you or your husband speak French? What cities/areas will you be hitting? If you still open to destinations I would suggest going to Gordes in Provence. It is not a big tourist spot and it is simply breath-taking! I can give you a list of great restaurants and things to do (market day, live music dancing, public screenings). I am currently living in Paris and traveling to everywhere in Europe when I get time off so just let me know where you're headed and how my experience can help you.
Bon voyage!

Yes, he speak french, and I understand some (I'm from Barcelona) we will drive from there to Carcassonne and from there we want to stop at some small villages on the way to Avignon, like Nimes , Montpellier, Béziers and Narbone. We will see if we have time to go to the east, Marseille, but Monaco and Genove is way too far...

my husband and i live close to carcassonne in millau,if you have some questions about the area aveyron or whatever you can post it,or even message me

I'm from Marseille so if you decide to head to the east part of the South of France, let me know...
I'll be happy to help and answer your questions!

I've been to Paris and Metz most French,(Europeans) speak English but, bring
English/French language books with you. The Euro is more than the dollar so estimate the
difference in currency. Most French hotels are small in square footage expect that.
Germany is very close if you desire travel to Sarrbruken, Germany to see a few castles.
It is right along the French border very close..