Top 10 things to do on the Lérins islands near Cannes

The easiest and fastest way to visit the Lérins Islands is to hop on a shuttle from Cannes. In less than 15 minutes, you'll arrive on these wild, car-free islands — perfect for a day of exploration. Once there, you can hike through shaded forest trails, stop at a beach or hidden cove for a swim or snorkeling break. On Sainte-Marguerite, don’t miss the Royal Fort Museum and the incredible underwater statues. On Saint-Honorat, step back in time as you explore the stunning ancient abbey.

For a more peaceful and immersive experience, take the time to  the Lérins Islands by kayak. In just 30 minutes of easy paddling, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Bay of Cannes and the islands’ crystal-clear waters. The great thing about kayaking? Total freedom — admire the islands from a new perspective, follow their wild coastlines, and stop wherever you like for a swim in a secret cove. Accessible from age 7, this adventure is perfect for families. Before setting off, you'll receive a safety briefing, and all gear is provided: life jackets, a waterproof container for your belongings, and more. A unique way to explore the Lérins Islands at your own pace — and get closer to nature with every stroke.

If you’d like to discover the Lérins Islands beyond the shuttle or kayak experience, this boat excursion is the perfect alternative! Departing from the port of Saint-Raphaël, enjoy a sea journey along the spectacular red cliffs of the Estérel Massif before reaching Saint-Honorat Island. There, you’ll have an hour to explore the fortified abbey and take in the peaceful atmosphere. Next stop: a unique snorkeling spot featuring submerged statues off the coast of Sainte-Marguerite island. The boat will anchor so you can dive in and admire these underwater artworks, before cruising back through the Bay of Cannes. This excursion combines sailing, stunning landscapes, cultural discovery, and unforgettable snorkeling!

Looking for a funny and original way to explore the Lérins Islands? Try a kayak treasure hunt! Perfect for families and groups of friends, this water-based scavenger hunt promises a unique mix of adventure, teamwork, and discovery.

Departing from Pointe Croisette, hop into your kayak and set off across the Lérins archipelago. Equipped with a map and clues to solve, you’ll navigate between Sainte-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat in search of hidden hints on these mysterious islands. You’ll spend about 2.5 hours on the water throughout the day — plenty of time to enjoy the stunning scenery while kayaking and playing the game..

Whether it’s your first visit or you already know the islands, this kayak treasure hunt is a fresh, immersive way to experience them.

If you’d rather cruise around the Lérins Islands without actually going ashore, renting a license-free boat is a great option. Easy to handle and accessible to beginners, these boats can accommodate up to 5 people. Plan for about 1 hour to reach the islands, 1 hour on-site to enjoy the turquoise waters, snorkel, and admire the underwater statues, and another hour to return. A perfect independent escape!

Planning a special celebration with your group — a birthday, bachelorette party, or reunion with friends? A private catamaran cruise to the Lérins Islands is the perfect option!

Departing from the charming port of La Rague in Mandelieu-La Napoule, board on a spacious and comfortable catamaran that can host up to 24 people. During the journey, relax on the nets or sun loungers and enjoy the idyllic setting.

Once anchored near the Lérins Islands, the boat becomes a floating playground: your music, drinks and snacks served on board, diving platforms, paddleboards — even a giant paddleboard for extra fun. As an option, add a giant inflatable slide for unforgettable moments on the water!

All this with a stunning sunset as your backdrop, and a dedicated skipper ensuring everything goes smoothly. A memorable way to enjoy the Lérins Islands with friends in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

If you’re looking for the most authentic way to explore the Lérins Islands, nothing is better than a walk along their scenic trails. After a short shuttle ride from Cannes, you’ll arrive on these unspoiled gems, far from noise and crowds. No cars or bikes here — just peaceful paths and the sound of cicadas. 

On Sainte-Marguerite Island, take your time following the trail that circles the island. The full loop takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes and offers stunning views of wild coves, pine and eucalyptus forests, and of course, the sparkling Mediterranean sea. There are picnic tables in shaded spots — perfect for a relaxing break.

On Saint-Honorat Island, the atmosphere is even more serene — almost timeless. A 1-hour loop lets you explore the island and its still-active monastery, home to a community of monks. A peaceful, soul-soothing experience ideal for mindful walks.

Whether you're with family, a partner, or friends, these hikes are accessible to everyone and offer total immersion in the islands’ natural beauty. Don’t forget your comfortable shoes, water, and of course, your camera to capture the stunning views!

On Sainte-Marguerite Island, a must-see is the Royal Fort and its Maritime Museum. Just a 15–20 minutes walk from the ferry landing, the path is easy, pleasant, and offers lovely sea views.

The Royal Fort, built in the 17th century, is steeped in history. It famously housed the mysterious "Man in the Iron Mask", adding mystery to the site. Visitors can explore the old prison, climb the ramparts, and take in panoramic views of the sea and Cannes. It’s a real journey through time, where every stone tells a story.

The Maritime Museum, located within the fort, dives into the region’s underwater heritage. Inside, you’ll find fascinating exhibits ranging from underwater archaeology to ship models and marine life displays. It’s both educational and engaging — perfect for families and kids eager to learn about the sea in an interactive way.

Accessibility: The visit is family-friendly and suitable for children from 6 y.o. The museum and most of the fort are accessible for visitors with reduced mobility (except for a few lookout points).

Practical Info:

• Visit duration: plan from 1h30 to 2h to fully enjoy the fort and museum, depending on your interest in the exhibits.
• Opening hours: the Royal Fort is daily open during high season (from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.). In the low season, it’s best to check hours in advance.
   

A visit to the Royal Fort and its Maritime Museum offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and nature — ideal for travelers looking to understand the rich past of these islands while soaking in their beauty.

Want to learn more about the island?  Don’t miss our blog post dedicated to Sainte-Marguerite Island, packed with practical tips and insider advice to make the most of your visit!

If you’d prefer not to drive to Cannes and enjoy a more direct departure from Cagnes-sur-Mer (15km from Nice) or Saint-Raphaël, good news — catamaran excursions are available to take you to the stunning Lérins Islands! Step aboard a maxi catamaran from your departure port and spend a full day out at sea.

Throughout the day, you can lounge on sunbeds, enjoy meals and snacks with an open bar, and explore the waters around the catamaran using the available kayaks and paddleboards. Several anchor stops are planned so you can swim in crystal-clear waters — including a highlight stop near the Lérins Islands, where you can dive in and enjoy the unique coastal surroundings.

Depending on your departure point, the landscapes will vary: 

• From Cagnes-sur-Mer, you’ll cruise along the coast with breathtaking views of Cap d’Antibes. 
• From Saint-Raphaël, you’ll sail past the iconic red cliffs of the Estérel Massif.
   

Although you won’t dock on the islands, this cruise lets you fully enjoy the sea and scenic coastline — all while avoiding traffic and the hassle of driving. It’s a perfect option for those looking to experience the Lérins Islands in a different and more relaxing way.

Practical Information:

• Duration: Full day (approximately 7–8 hours) 
• Departure Ports: Cagnes-sur-Mer or Saint-Raphaël 
• What to bring: Swimsuit, sunscreen, and a camera!
   

If you're looking for a relaxing day at sea while discovering the region from a new perspective, this catamaran cruise is the perfect choice.

The Lérins Islands are a true natural gem — perfect for exploring on foot and admiring their wild beauty. But for an even more unforgettable experience, we highly recommend diving to discover the underwater treasures. With clear turquoise waters and exceptional biodiversity, snorkeling around the Lérins Islands is a must for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Several snorkeling excursions are available, either by boat from the Port de la Rague in Mandelieu or from Saint-Raphaël. On these tours, you’ll be equipped with fins, mask, and snorkel to explore marine life up close. Multiple swim stops allow you to dive into turquoise coves and discover colorful fish, seagrass meadows, and even surprising underwater statues!

It’s an unmissable experience  — a perfect mix of relaxation, exploration, and natural wonder. If you enjoy adventure and discovery, snorkeling around the Lérins Islands is the ideal way to make the most of this exceptional destination.