Water activities in Cannes

15 water activities to try in Cannes

In the Bay of Cannes, the sea is something of an institution. It's coveted, adored, and appreciated for its sea breeze, its sea spray, and the softness of its fine sandy beaches.

As the Bay adorns itself with all its summer charms, more and more leisure centers offer extraordinary water activities. Jet-skiing, kite-surfing, kayaking, wakeboarding, etc. What are the popular water sports on the Côte d'Azur?

Catamaran Cruise

For a day or half-day, come flirt with the swell, sail along the rugged coastline of the Var, or stop off among the Lérins Islands.

You'll find various excursions departing from Cannes. To the Lérins Islands, Saint-Tropez, and Monaco, these giants of the sea set sail for the most beautiful destinations on the Côte d'Azur.

Enjoying swimming in clear waters, lunch on board, music, and relaxation, these expeditions are full of relaxation and unique sensations. Reservations required!

Sunset from the sea

How about ending the day with a pleasant boat trip in the heart of the Bay of Cannes? Under the soft glow of the evening, a glass of wine in hand, come and enjoy the sweetness of an evening at sea watching the sunset.

Whether you're a couple or a family, this delightful excursion ends with the stars in front of the Croisette Light Show. In summer, the Festival of Fireworks takes place, and the boat trip transforms into a sumptuous sound and light show for young and old.

Rent a private boat

Whether you have a boating license or not, you can always opt for a motor or sailing boat rental in Cannes and nearby towns.

To navigate safely, hire the services of a captain who will be able to take you safely to port and show you the best spots to discover.

If you feel like it, take the opportunity to try your hand at sailing with an experienced instructor. An ideal day outdoors to discover the secrets of the coast in the privacy of a private outing!

Standup paddle

Stand on your board, equipped with a paddle, let yourself be guided by qualified instructors or take advantage of a rental to discover the beauty of the shore.

Because today paddleboard rental has become more widespread, you'll have no trouble finding a water sports center offering boards by the hour or half-day.

Be careful, however, to check the weather before booking; paddleboarding in rough seas is far from relaxing!

Scuba diving

A classic, yes, but not everyone dabbles in scuba diving! Yet, the best diving schools compete for the hearts of vacationers seeking thrills during their holidays.

While beginners can try scuba diving, more experienced divers can improve their skills, combining business with pleasure.

In any case, the beauty of the coastal seabed will delight divers seeking unique biodiversity.

The calanques by speedboat

If you love thrills, try a speed boat! These sleek speedboats offer a unique high-speed experience.

Breaking through the waves and braving the sea spray, these boats take visitors to the heart of the Esterel Natural Park. Crystal-clear coves, secret coves, mysterious caves—there's plenty to discover and enjoy. Don't forget your snorkeling gear; the seabed has a lot to offer, hidden among the red rocks of the Esterel.

A jet ski trip

A summer essential, this water sport is still a favorite on the Cannes coast. Combining speed, technique, and adrenaline, jet skiing thrills both experienced and beginners thanks to its ease of use and fun factor!

Whether you're doing it alone, with a partner, or with others, jet ski rental is one of the many water activities that offer unparalleled water sports.

Try kitesurfing

While it's not a water sport that can be practiced between an ice cream and a swim, kitesurfing schools offer numerous courses lasting a few days to learn how to handle your equipment.

Equipped with a board and a sail, you'll be able to experience the traction provided by the wind, the feeling of gliding, and speed, although handling all of this is far from easy. It's one of the most difficult water sports, but also one of the most extreme, offering extraordinary sensations.

Water skiing

Among the various water activities in Cannes, water skiing may seem like an obvious choice. However, this iconic sport of water sports centers is gradually being overshadowed by innovative, thrilling water sports.

That's a shame! Pulled by a motorboat, standing on your skis, it's not the easiest water sport, but it's certainly one of the most technical.

Visit the water sports centers of the Bay of Cannes!

Parasailing

Take to the skies, enjoy a breathtaking view of the Bay of Cannes and the Lérins Islands by treating yourself to a parasailing experience.

Alone, as a duo or with others, different options can be offered to you.

Towed by a boat at sea, the speed makes you hover above an azure sea to allow you to enjoy a breathtaking landscape. One of the best water activities in Cannes!

Learn to Wakeboard

Come discover the pleasures of a little-known water sport that's gaining popularity on the Côte d'Azur. Pulled by a speed boat, you're invited to surf the swell.

If your water sports center offers it, try foiling! A wakeboard with a sort of submerged airplane wing that takes you up high with speed. Want to give it a try? Head to your nearest Cannes water sports center!

Confronting towed buoys

This is certainly a teenager's favorite activity. On the beach, from a pontoon, hold on to the various buoys designed to offer a dose of adrenaline to brave volunteers. An activity to absolutely enjoy with friends for guaranteed laughs!

Snorkeling in the Lérins Islands

Equipped with a mask, snorkel, and fins, come and observe the seabed and its rich biodiversity. And to do so, nothing beats a visit to the Underwater Ecomuseum of the Lérins Islands!

From the seaside, simply swim a few meters in a secure area to reach the imposing statues that lie 5 meters deep. Observe the Mediterranean fish, the richness of the underwater vegetation, and the impressive contrasts that color the lagoon in the most beautiful way.

Rest your mind in a kayak

We've all heard of river kayaking. But sea kayaking is much more original! For several years now, canoeing and kayaking "hikes" have been gaining popularity.

And for good reason: it's certainly the best way for nature lovers to discover unspoiled coves, hidden caves, and little wild paradises while enjoying a newfound tranquility and the sound of cicadas. A gentle leisure sport, ideal for families or friends!

Sea aquaparks

These leisure centers, primarily aimed at children, offer fun, family-friendly games based on inflatable structures at sea. Slides, climbing, balancing games—everything is designed to encourage sliding and challenge the whole family. One of the most fun water activities in Cannes!