Paddleboarding in the Calanques, Marseille: Where to Go, Park and Explore by Paddleboard

Discovering the Calanques of Cassis: An Unforgettable Paddleboarding Adventure

In the southeast of France, nestled between Marseille and Cassis, lie the magnificent Calanques de Cassis, a true Mediterranean natural treasure.

These spectacular coves, with their crystal-clear waters and rugged cliffs, offer breathtaking scenery and an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure enthusiasts.

Of the many ways to discover these natural wonders, paddleboarding is one of the most captivating.

Why go paddleboarding in the Calanques de Cassis?

Between Marseille and Cassis, the Calanques offer spectacular landscapes: turquoise waters, white cliffs, secret coves... Paddleboarding in the Calanques allows you to access places only visible from the sea, in a 100% natural atmosphere.

Paddleboarding in the Calanques

Where to Paddleboard in the Calanques: The Best Spots

Here are the best places to practice paddleboarding in the Calanques, with specific information:

🔵 Port-Miou Cove (Cassis)

• Why here? Highly accessible, it's the ideal starting point for a paddleboarding excursion to other coves.

• Access : From Cassis, follow the signs for “Calanque de Port-Miou”.

• Parking : Small parking lot "Parking Presqu'île" (paid in summer, limited, arrive early).

• Tip : Easy departure, calm water in the harbor, perfect for beginners. From there, you can paddle to Port-Pin and En-Vau in about an hour.

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🔵 Port-Pin Calanque

• Why here? Small white pebble beach, crystal clear water.

• Paddle access : From Port-Miou in 20-30 minutes of paddling.

• Tip : Ideal for a swim break. Be sure to keep an eye on your board as there's little space to moor it.

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🔵 En-Vau Cove

• Why here? The star of the Calanques! On a paddleboard, you enter a magnificent canyon.

• Paddleboard access : Allow 45 minutes to 1 hour from Port-Miou depending on your level and the wind.

• Tip : Bring a strap to secure your paddleboard if you plan to swim and explore on foot.

Where to Rent a Paddleboard to Explore the Calanques?

Paddleboarding in the Calanques

You can rent a paddleboard directly in Cassis:

• Cassis Nautic – Bestouan Beach.

• Loca'Bato – Port of Cassis.

• Yes Provence – Daily rental with delivery available.

Tip : Some rentals offer a waterproof bag included, practical for carrying water, phone and snacks!

Where to Park for Paddleboarding in the Calanques?

Parking is a real challenge in summer, here are the best options:

• Presqu'île Parking (Port-Miou): Small parking lot near the departure point, paying.

• Gorguettes Parking : Further away, but free shuttles to reach Port-Miou (July-August).

• Calanques car park in Cassis : More accessible out of season.

Top tip :🚗 Arrive before 8:30 a.m. in summer to secure a spot. Otherwise, park at the top and walk down to Port-Miou (~15-minute walk).

Concrete Tips for Successful Paddling in the Calanques

• Equipment : Stable paddle (12 feet ideal), life jacket, waterproof bag, cap and sunglasses.

• Weather conditions : Check the wind (Mistral) , as it can make the return difficult or even dangerous.

• Ideal time : Departure early in the morning, between 7:00 and 9:00 a.m., generally calm sea.

• Safety : Let someone know your route, bring a charged phone in a waterproof bag.

• Respect for the National Park : Row without disturbing the wildlife, do not disembark everywhere (protected areas).

Paddleboarding itinerary in the Calanques (3 hours round trip)

🔵 Departure from Port-Miou ➡️ Pass in front of Port-Pin (swimming break possible) ➡️ Go back up to the Calanque d'En-Vau (tour and picnic break) ⬅️ Return by the same path to Port-Miou

Conclusion: Paddleboarding, the Best Way to Discover the Calanques

Paddleboarding in the Calanques de Cassis is an unforgettable experience. By choosing the right access points, following local guidelines, and setting off early in the morning, you'll experience a magical adventure in the heart of one of Europe's most beautiful landscapes.

Prepare your session, and you'll be paddleboarding to the turquoise waters and secret coves!

🔥 FAQ "Paddle Calanques"

📍 Where to paddleboard in the Calanques de Cassis?

The best spots for paddleboarding in the Calanques are around Cassis. The classic starting point is the Calanque de Port-Miou , easily accessible from the port of Cassis. After paddling for 20 to 30 minutes, you reach Port-Pin , a small, sheltered cove, and then En-Vau , considered the most spectacular with its high cliffs and turquoise blue water. These areas are ideal for paddleboarding because they offer relatively calm waters and exceptional scenery.

🚗 Where to park for paddleboarding in the Calanques?

The best plan is to aim for the Presqu'île car park in Cassis, very close to the trail that leads to Port-Miou. Be careful: it's small and fills up quickly in summer. In high season, choose the Gorguettes car park (large free car park) and then take the eco-friendly shuttle to Port-Miou. Alternatively, the Mimosas car park can also be a convenient alternative.

🌊 Can you rent a paddleboard directly in Cassis to explore the Calanques?

Yes, Cassis is full of paddleboard rental companies in the immediate vicinity of the Calanques. You'll find Cassis Nautic on Bestouan Beach, as well as Loca'Bato at the Port of Cassis. Some rental companies even offer inflatable paddleboard delivery directly to your accommodation if you're staying in Cassis.

🏖️ Which is the best cove to start paddleboarding?

Port-Miou is ideal for beginners: it's a fjord-shaped cove, protected from the wind and waves. The water is calm, and you can practice handling your board without difficulty. From Port-Miou, a short paddle session takes you to the pebble beach of Port-Pin , perfect for a first adventure.

🧭 Can we take a guided paddleboarding excursion in the Calanques?

Yes! Several agencies, such as ExpéNATURE Cassis or Destination Calanques , organize guided paddleboarding excursions. These excursions allow you to discover the marine biodiversity and history of the National Park in complete safety, navigating to inaccessible coves such as the Œil de Verre or the Calanque de l'Oule .

🌞 When is the best time to paddleboard in the Calanques?

The best time is from May to September, when temperatures are pleasant and the sea is often calm. Leaving early, between 7am and 9am , is ideal to avoid the heat and summer crowds. Calanques like Sormiou , Morgiou and En-Vau are then bathed in a magical light, perfect for paddleboarding.

⚠️ Is it dangerous to paddleboard in the Calanques?

Paddleboarding remains accessible to all levels if the weather conditions are good. However, beware of the Mistral wind, which can suddenly pick up, making navigation difficult, especially between Port-Pin and En-Vau. Always check the marine weather reports from Météo France before leaving Cassis.

🐠 Can you see fish while paddleboarding in the Calanques?

Yes! The clear waters of the Calanques are a paradise for sea lovers. While paddleboarding around Port-Pin or under the cliffs of En-Vau , you can spot schools of sea bream, sea bream, and sometimes even octopus as they glide gently over the seabed.

🏝️ Which cove is the wildest to explore by paddleboard?

The Calanque de l'Oule , between En-Vau and Devenson, is the wildest. Accessible only by sea, it offers a preserved atmosphere, far from the crowds. From Port-Miou, plan a more sporty outing (2 hours round trip minimum) to reach this secret gem by paddleboard.

🛶 Can you go kayaking in the Calanques in addition to paddleboarding?

Absolutely. Kayaking is a perfect alternative, especially for exploring further afield (for example, to Calanque de Sugiton from Cassis). Many rental companies, such as Yes Provence or Cassis Evasion , offer single or double kayaks, ideal for family outings.

📜 Do you need special permission to paddleboard in the Calanques National Park?

No, but it is mandatory to respect the regulations of the Calanques National Park : avoid landing on prohibited beaches, do not approach birds' nests, and respect the protection zones such as around the Riou Archipelago off the coast of Marseille.

🛟 What equipment is required for paddleboarding in the Calanques?

In addition to your paddle, it is recommended to have:

• A buoyancy vest (mandatory beyond 300 m from the coast),

• A leash to stay attached to your board,

• A whistle to signal a need for assistance,

• A waterproof bag for carrying water, phone and first aid kit.

This equipment is required if you are going far from the coast, such as towards Calanque de Sormiou .

🕒 How long does it take to paddleboard to En-Vau from Port-Miou?

From Port-Miou , it takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour to paddle to reach En-Vau , depending on your level and the wind. It's a magical journey through turquoise waters, along the impressive cliffs of Port-Pin .

🥵 Can you paddleboard in the Calanques in the middle of summer?

Yes, but beware of heatwaves and crowds. In July and August, leave Cassis early (7-8 a.m.) to enjoy the still cool and calm Calanques. Also remember to book your equipment in advance at Cassis Nautic or Loca'Bato .

🎒 What should you bring for a day of paddleboarding in the Calanques?

Here is the essential checklist:

• Suitable inflatable or rigid paddle,

• Life jacket,

• Waterproof bag with phone, papers, food,

• Waterproof sunscreen,

• Glasses with cord, cap,

• 1.5L of water minimum,

• Small energy bars for your break in Port-Pin or En-Vau .