Kayaking to the Lérins Islands from Cannes

From our watersports base at Palm Beach in Cannes, the Lérins Islands offer one of the French Riviera’s most beautiful kayaking escapes. The crossing to Sainte-Marguerite takes around 15 minutes, depending on conditions and your pace.

Why choose a kayak?

At water level, the coast reveals a different side: turquoise shades, rocks, little coves and views across the Bay of Cannes. A kayak lets you travel at your own pace and enjoy the scenery without an engine.

Sainte-Marguerite or Saint-Honorat?

Sainte-Marguerite is known for its coves, pine woods and views of Fort Royal. Saint-Honorat has a different atmosphere, shaped by its abbey and unspoilt scenery. Your route depends on the time available and sea conditions.

Which rental option should you choose?

For the islands, we recommend a four-hour half-day or a full day. A full day gives you more freedom to stop and explore. Before departure, our team explains which routes are suitable.

Our tips for a great day

Bring water, sun protection, suitable footwear and a picnic if you are heading out for a long trip. Respect navigation areas, protected sites and the instructions given at the base.

Preparing the crossing from Cannes

Depart from our watersports base at Palm Beach, Cannes, at the tip of the Croisette. Before setting off, take time to identify the islands and navigation zones on the map presented by our team. Allow around fifteen minutes to reach Sainte-Marguerite in favourable conditions; this is only an estimate and varies with the wind, sea state and participants’ pace.

What can you discover on Sainte-Marguerite?

Sainte-Marguerite is the larger of the archipelago’s two main islands. From the water, you can admire its pine woods, rocky shoreline and blue-tinted coves. Fort Royal, associated with the story of the Man in the Iron Mask, stands on this island. If you plan to visit on land, allow enough time and check the authorised landing points.

Saint-Honorat, a different atmosphere

Farther south, Saint-Honorat is known for its abbey and fortified monastery, visible from the sea. This monument should not be confused with Fort Royal on Sainte-Marguerite. Visiting Saint-Honorat requires a suitable route and enough time; do not assume that every short rental allows you to see both islands.

Half-day or full day?

The four-hour option, at €30 per person, allows for a trip around Sainte-Marguerite. For more time to wander, stop and enjoy the scenery, the full-day option at €35 per person is more comfortable. Feasible routes are confirmed before departure according to the day's conditions.

Good habits on the islands

Bring plenty of water, sun protection, a hat, water-friendly shoes and a waterproof bag for your belongings. A mask and snorkel can add to the experience wherever swimming is permitted. Leave no rubbish on the islands, respect protected areas and avoid approaching wildlife.

Frequently asked questions

Do you need to be athletic? You do not have to be an experienced kayaker, but you must be able to swim and feel comfortable on the water. Can children join? Yes, depending on their age, confidence in the water and suitable equipment; ask our team for advice. Can you paddle all the way around the islands? It depends on the time, your ability and conditions; do not plan on it without having your route approved.