Paddleboard rentals on the French Riviera: a complete guide 2026 to the best spots
- Oct 31
- 8 min read
The French Riviera is a dream destination for paddleboarding enthusiasts. Its exceptional coastline, alternating between sandy beaches, wild coves, red cliffs and unspoiled islands, offers unparalleled diversity.
Thanks to its Mediterranean climate, it is possible to practice stand-up paddleboarding almost all year round, whether you are a beginner, experienced, or a family with children.
In this guide, discover the 10 best spots to rent a paddleboard on the French Riviera , with all the practical information to make the most of your outings: access, parking, best times, average prices and local advice.
1. The Lérins Islands (Cannes)
The Lérins Islands are one of the most beautiful playgrounds in the Mediterranean for paddleboarding. Located opposite the Bay of Cannes, Sainte-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat attract thousands of visitors every year, but the paddleboarding experience allows you to discover their wild coves and translucent waters in a unique way.
Launching point : Palm Beach beach (Cannes), Mandelieu port or Cannes nautical base.
Convenient access : parking at Palm Beach (paid in summer, free off-season).
For whom?: experienced people for the crossing (1 to 2 km in open sea), but also beginners if renting on site or on a guided outing.
Prices : approximately €15/hour or €40 for half a day.
Highlights : Saint-Honorat monastery, deserted coves of Sainte-Marguerite, contrasts between turquoise sea and maritime pines.
Best time : early morning, when the water is flat as a mirror.
👉 Local tip: be careful of maritime traffic between Cannes and the islands, it is better to stay close to the coast once you arrive.
2. Cap d’Antibes & Juan-les-Pins
Cap d'Antibes is a legendary destination for paddleboarding enthusiasts. Surrounded by luxurious villas and centuries-old pine trees, it combines family-friendly beaches, small coves, and breathtaking panoramas.
Launching point : Garoupe beach, Salis beach or Juan-les-Pins port.
Convenient access : parking nearby (paid in summer, very busy).
For whom?: families (Garoupe beach is very calm), experienced (complete tour of the cape).
Prices : €12–15 / hour, €30–40 for a half day.
Highlights : views of the Bay of Angels, small wild coves accessible only by paddleboard, chic atmosphere of Juan-les-Pins.
Best time : sunrise → incredible light and translucent water.
👉 Local tip: avoid mid-afternoon because of the thermal wind, which can make navigation difficult.
3. Villefranche-sur-Mer & Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
The bay of Villefranche is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. Its deep, turquoise waters contrast with the colorful houses and verdant hills. Nearby Cap-Ferrat offers spectacular paddleboarding opportunities.
Launching point : Marinières beach (Villefranche), Passable beach or Paloma beach (Cap-Ferrat).
Convenient access : parking lots near the beaches (paid in summer, limited → arrive early).
For whom? : perfect for couples or families looking for a quiet stroll, sporty people to go around Cap-Ferrat.
Prices : €15/hour, €40–50 for a half-day.
Highlights : prestigious villas, secluded coves, panoramic views of Villefranche harbor.
Best time : late afternoon, to admire the sunset behind Nice.
👉 Local tip: follow the north coast of Cap-Ferrat → coves accessible only by paddleboard.
4. Cap Dramont & Estérel Massif
Cap Dramont, near Saint-Raphaël, is a spectacular spot. Here, the red volcanic rocks of the Estérel plunge into a deep blue sea, offering a unique contrast in the Mediterranean.
Launching point : Dramont beach or surrounding coves.
Convenient access : Dramont beach car park (quick access to the water).
For whom? : lovers of wild landscapes, photographers, experienced athletes.
Prices : approximately €15/hour, €35–40 for a half-day.
Highlights : Île d'Or (private islet at sea, made famous by Hergé in Tintin), vertiginous cliffs, wild atmosphere.
Best time : calm morning or flamboyant sunset over the red rocks.
👉 Local tip: the water can be rougher here, choose days without strong winds.
5. Fréjus & Saint-Aygulf
An accessible and family-friendly area, with long beaches and a friendly atmosphere.
Launching point : Base Nature François Léotard, beaches of Saint-Aygulf.
Convenient access : large parking lots (some free off-season).
For whom? : ideal for families, children, beginners.
Prices : €12/hour, €30 for half a day.
Highlights : calm waters, supervised beaches, easy rental of paddleboards, kayaks and pedal boats.
Best time : all day → suitable spot even in summer thanks to the large beaches.
👉 Local tip: lively water sports center with many activities, perfect for varying paddleboarding, pedal boating and kayaking.
6. Gulf of Saint-Tropez (Ramatuelle, Pampelonne, La Croix-Valmer)
Famous throughout the world, the Gulf of Saint-Tropez is a must-see. Between legendary beaches and unspoiled coves, it also appeals to paddleboarding enthusiasts.
Launching point : Pampelonne beach (Ramatuelle), Gigaro beach (La Croix-Valmer).
Convenient access : paid parking near the beaches.
For whom?: families on Pampelonne, sports enthusiasts on the wilder coves.
Prices : €15/hour, €40 for half a day.
Highlights : chic atmosphere, turquoise water, magical sunset.
Best time : end of the day → exceptional panorama and calmer sea.
👉 Local tip: go to Pampelonne early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
7. Menton & Cap Martin
The last French stop before the Italian border, Menton offers a mild and sunny Mediterranean atmosphere.
Launching point : Menton beaches, Cap Martin promenade.
Convenient access : parking along the promenade, easy access.
For whom?: families, beginners, lovers of contemplative walks.
Prices : €12–15 / hour, €30–35 for a half day.
Highlights : panoramic views of the Italian Riviera, mild climate even in autumn.
Best time : morning → calm sea and crystal clear water.
👉 Local tip: extend the trip to Cap Martin to admire the seaside villas.
8. Cassis & the Calanques
The calanques of Cassis (Port-Miou, En-Vau, Sormiou) are among the most spectacular landscapes in the Mediterranean.
Launching point : Cassis port or Presqu'île beaches.
Convenient access : car parks often full in summer → arrive early or take shuttles.
For whom?: experienced athletes, lovers of wild nature.
Prices : €20/hour, €50 for half a day.
Highlights : impressive limestone cliffs, turquoise coves, unique atmosphere.
Best time : spring and autumn, as access is often regulated in the summer.
👉 Local tip: check the National Park restrictions before you go out.
9. Nice – Promenade des Anglais
A legendary urban spot where you can paddle facing palm trees and the famous Bay of Angels.
Launching from the water : private beaches or nautical clubs on the Promenade.
Convenient access : numerous paid parking lots in town.
For whom?: those who want to combine sport and city atmosphere.
Prices : €15–20 / h.
Highlights : unique urban atmosphere, views of the hills of Nice.
Best time : morning or late afternoon to avoid the hustle and bustle.
👉 Local tip: favour renting through a club to avoid prohibited swimming areas.
10. Hyères & the Golden Islands (Porquerolles, Port-Cros, Le Levant)
The Hyères islands are true gems for paddleboarding.
Launching point : Porquerolles beaches (Notre-Dame, Argent, La Courtade).
Convenient access : boat crossing from Hyères or Giens.
For whom?: families (Silver Beach), sports enthusiasts (island tour).
Prices : €20/hour, €50 for half a day.
Highlights : turquoise lagoons, idyllic beaches, unspoiled nature.
Best time : outside the summer season (May-June or September) to avoid the crowds.
👉 Local tip: plan a full day to explore the island by paddleboard and enjoy its coves.
11. Porquerolles – The paradise island for paddleboarding
Porquerolles is the most famous of the Îles d'Or and undoubtedly the most idyllic paddleboarding spot on the French Riviera . With its white sand beaches, wild coves and turquoise waters worthy of the Caribbean, the island is an exceptional playground for SUP enthusiasts.
Launching :
Notre-Dame beach (ranked among the most beautiful in Europe), Argent beach (ideal for families), Courtade beach (accessible from the village).
Convenient access :
Boat crossing from the Giens peninsula (Hyères), Toulon port or La Londe. Car parks near the piers (often paid and quickly full in summer).
For whom?
families (Argent and Courtade beaches, calm waters), experienced paddlers (possibility of walking along the coast and exploring secluded coves), sports enthusiasts (half-day SUP excursions).
Prices :
paddle rental on site or in Hyères → €20/hour on average, €50 for half a day, €60–70 for a full day.
Highlights : translucent lagoons, Caribbean-like beaches, wild cliffs and coves accessible only by paddleboard, preserved atmosphere far from the hustle and bustle of the coast.
Best moment :
Visit during the off-season (May-June or September) to enjoy the coves in peace and quiet. In the morning, the water is calmer and the light is magnificent for photos.
👉 Local council :
Plan a full day on the island with a picnic and water. If you have an inflatable paddleboard, taking it along is a great option for exploring at your own pace.
Paddleboarding according to the seasons on the French Riviera
Summer (June-August) : warm water but very crowded → arrive early.
Autumn (September-October) : ideal conditions, bases still open.
Winter (November-March) : paddleboarding possible for enthusiasts (wetsuit required).
Spring (April-May) : mild climate, clear water, few people.
Practical tips
Parking : arrive early, especially in summer.
Safety : life jacket recommended, stay close to the coast.
Equipment : inflatable paddleboard ideal for exploring multiple spots.
Weather : beware of the mistral and easterly winds.
The French Riviera is a paradise for paddleboarding enthusiasts. From the unspoiled islands of Porquerolles to the red cliffs of the Esterel Massif, each spot offers a unique experience. Whether you're with family, as a couple, or a seasoned athlete, this exceptional coastline will provide unforgettable memories on the water.
FAQ – Paddleboarding on the French Riviera
Where to rent a paddleboard on the French Riviera?
It is possible to rent a paddleboard in most of the seaside resorts on the French Riviera: Cannes (Palm Beach, Lérins Islands), Antibes (Garoupe Beach), Saint-Raphaël (Cap Dramont), Saint-Tropez (Pampelonne, Gigaro), Hyères (Porquerolles), Nice (Promenade des Anglais). Each water sports center offers rentals by the hour, half-day, or full day.
What are the average prices for paddleboard rental?
Prices vary between €12 and €20 per hour depending on the location and the type of board (standard, inflatable, XXL). A half-day costs approximately €30 to €45, and a full day can cost up to €60.
Is paddleboarding on the French Riviera suitable for families?
Yes, many spots like Saint-Aygulf, Pampelonne, or Plage d'Argent in Porquerolles offer calm and safe conditions. Rental companies provide life jackets for children and sometimes offer XXL paddleboards for paddling with several people.
What are the best spots for paddleboarding at sunset?
The most spectacular sunsets can be admired while paddleboarding from Saint-Jorioz, the bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer, Pampelonne in Saint-Tropez, or Cap Dramont. The low-angled light on the Mediterranean Sea makes the experience magical.
Can we come by bike with an inflatable paddleboard?
Yes, the cycle path runs along a large part of the coastline (including Antibes, Nice, and Saint-Raphaël). With an inflatable paddleboard carried in its bag, it's easy to access beaches and coves without worrying about parking.
Which spot is the most accessible for beginners?
Saint-Aygulf, Fréjus, and Pampelonne are the most suitable for beginners: calm water, gently sloping beaches, and supervised areas. Rental shops there offer a quick briefing to teach you how to paddle.
Which spots offer the most beautiful scenery for paddleboarding?
For photos, choose the Estérel and its red rocks, the Cap d'Antibes with its wild coves, the calanques of Cassis for their spectacular cliffs, and Porquerolles for its turquoise lagoons.
Is it possible to go paddleboarding in winter on the French Riviera?
Yes, the mild climate allows for paddling year-round. However, between November and March, the water remains cool: a wetsuit is essential. Some paddling centers remain open in Cannes, Nice, and Saint-Tropez.
What is the ideal duration for a paddleboarding trip?
A 1.5 to 2-hour session allows you to discover a beautiful stretch of coastline. To explore a headland or island (Cap d'Antibes, Porquerolles), opt for a half-day. Those who are more athletic can rent a boat for a full day.
Where can I easily park to go paddleboarding?
Each location has parking facilities with varying degrees of accessibility: Palm Beach in Cannes, Garoupe beach in Antibes, Dramont parking lot, Pampelonne in Saint-Tropez, and Hyères parking lots for access to the islands. In summer, arrive early to avoid overcrowding.
What are the safety rules to follow?
Always wear a life jacket, check the weather (mistral and easterly winds can make the sea dangerous), stay close to the coast and avoid areas of heavy maritime traffic.
What is the best spot for an unforgettable paddleboarding experience?
Each place has its own charm, but Porquerolles captivates with its turquoise waters, the Estérel impresses with its red cliffs, and Villefranche offers a breathtaking panorama. For a unique getaway, the Lérins Islands are ideal: unspoiled nature and historical heritage.
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