OVERVIEW
Table
| Name | Appeal | Ferry (one-way) | Price (round-trip) | Peak m (ft) | Size km (mi) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | St-Honorat | ✦✦✦✧✧ | 20m | €20.50 | Flat | 1.5 x 0.4 (0.9 x 0.2) |
| 2 | Ste-Marguerite | ✦✦✦✧✧ | 15m | €18.50 | 27 (89) | 3.2 x 0.9 (2.0 x 0.6) |
| 3 | Porquerolles | ✦✦✦✧✧ | 15m | €24 | 142 (466) | 7.5 x 3 (4.7 x 1.9) |
| 4 | Port-Cros | ✦✦✦✧✧ | 35m | €29 | 200 (656) | 4.2 x 2.4 (2.6 x 1.5) |
| 5 | Levant | ✦✦✧✧✧ | 35m | €34 | 138 (453) | * 1.2 x 0.5 (0.7 x 0.3) |
| 6 | Embiez | ✦✦✧✧✧ | 12m | €21 | 64 (210) | 1 x 1 (0.6 x 0.6) |
| 7 | Grand Gaou | ✦✦✧✧✧ | Footbridge | 0 | Flat | 0.5 x 0.2 (0.3 x 0.1) |
| 8 | Bendor | ✦✦✧✧✧ | Closed | ✕ | Flat | 0.5 x 0.2 (0.3 x 0.1) |
* Size of the authorized area on Levant Island.
Map
ISLANDS
St-Honorat
Appeal ✦✦✦✧✧
Full Name
Île Saint-Honorat
Size 1.5 x 0.4 km (0.9 x 0.2 mi)
Peak Flat
Just off the coast of Cannes, Saint-Honorat Island is like a peaceful bubble, frozen in time, far from the glitz and bustle of La Croisette. It’s the second of the Lérins Islands and, along with its bigger sister Sainte-Marguerite, forms an iconic duo off the Côte d’Azur. But unlike its more visited sibling, Saint-Honorat holds onto a calm, reflective vibe, thanks largely to the presence of an active monastic community. No cars or bikes are allowed here, which only adds to the feeling that you’ve stepped away from the world.
The island actually belongs to the Lérins Abbey, which was founded in the 5th century by Saint Honoratus. The monastery has stood the test of time, and today around twenty Cistercian monks live there, following a life of self-sufficiency and silence. There’s the current abbey, rebuilt in the 19th century, and the remains of a medieval fortified monastery with its striking crenellated towers facing the sea.
Besides its spiritual heritage, Saint-Honorat offers untouched natural beauty, pine forests, hidden coves, quiet beaches, and vineyards. The monks themselves cultivate the vines and produce wine, including some Mediterranean-style vintages.
You can easily walk around the whole island, and the coastal path gives you stunning views over the Bay of Cannes, and the crystal-clear waters lapping against the rocks. It’s a walk that invites quiet reflection, perfect for thinking or just snapping amazing photos.
Everything on Saint-Honorat encourages you to slow down. The island feels like a rare pause on the Côte d’Azur, a place where silence, nature, and history all live peacefully side by side.
Ferry
Duration (one-way) 20min
Price (round-trip) €20.50
Company
Planariat
📍 From Cannes
⚙️ Schedules & Prices (Official Website)
Ste-Marguerite
Appeal ✦✦✦✧✧
Full Name
Île Sainte-Marguerite
Size 3.2 x 0.9 km (2.0 x 0.6 mi)
Peak 27m (89ft)
Sainte-Marguerite Island, the largest of the Lérins Islands, is a world away from the hustle and bustle of Cannes’ Croisette. Covered in dense forests of Aleppo pines and eucalyptus trees, and lined with crystal-clear coves, it’s a perfect escape into nature and history right in the middle of the Bay of Cannes.
The best way to explore it is on foot along the marked trails. No cars or bikes are allowed here. As you walk through the pine-scented paths, you’re treated to beautiful views of the coastline, the neighboring island, and of course, the Mediterranean. It’s a peaceful experience that brings back the feel of a wilder, more tranquil Côte d’Azur.
The cultural island’s highlight is the Royal Fort. Built in the 17th century to protect Cannes’ bay, it’s most famous as the prison of the mysterious Man in the Iron Mask, who was locked up here. No one knows for sure who he really was, and that mystery still fascinates historians and visitors. Today, the fort houses the Sea Museum, with underwater archaeology exhibits, temporary shows, and parts of the old prison cells, including the one thought to have held the Man in the Iron Mask.
Sainte-Marguerite also stands out for its ecological richness. The Batéguier Pond is a haven for migratory birds, and nature lovers will enjoy spotting all kinds of Mediterranean plants and animals around the island.
There are a few seasonal spots to grab food, but a lot of people bring a picnic and find a quiet place to eat, surrounded by nothing but rustling trees and the sound of waves.
Peaceful, easy to reach, Sainte-Marguerite is the perfect day trip, whether you’re into history, nature, or just soaking up the Mediterranean vibe.
Ferry
Duration (one-way) 15min
Price (round-trip) €18.50
Company 1
Trans Côte d’Azur (also named Riviera Lines)
📍 From Cannes
⚙️ Schedules & Prices (Official Website)
Departure from Nice (Official Website)
Other Departure Ports (Official Website)
Company 2
Horizons
📍 From Cannes
⚙️ Schedules (Official Website)
⚙️ Prices (Official Website)
Porquerolles
Appeal ✦✦✦✧✧
Full Name
Île de Porquerolles
Size 7.5 x 3 km (4.7 x 1.9 mi)
Peak 142m (466ft)
Porquerolles is just off the Giens peninsula, and it’s the biggest and most famous of the Îles d’Or. When you get there, it feels like a postcard: white sandy beaches, turquoise water, wind-carved cliffs, and dusty little paths shaded by pine and oak trees. Cars aren’t allowed on the island, which makes the whole vibe super peaceful and untouched.
The village, which was built in the 19th century around the harbor, is really the heart of the island. That’s where you’ll find a few restaurants, shops, and places to stay. It’s also where all the hikes and bike rides start, biking is kind of the main way to get around. The trails take you all over the island, leading to beaches or quiet little coves.
Nature-wise, Porquerolles is a total gem. It’s part of the Port-Cros National Park and carefully protected by the Conservatoire du littoral. The Mediterranean plants, the orchards, the wide open views, if you love fresh air and nature, you’ll be in heaven.
To get there, you take a boat, usually from Hyères. During high season, there are plenty of ferries, but it’s a good idea to get there early to beat the crowds. Even though it’s a popular spot, the island’s done a great job keeping a balance between tourism and nature, which makes it perfect if you’re into the real, unspoiled Mediterranean.
Ferry
Duration (one-way) 15min
Price (round-trip) €24
Company
TLV TVM
📍 From Hyères (Giens Peninsula)
⚙️ Schedules (Official Website)
⚙️ Prices (Official Website – Fr)
Port-Cros
Appeal ✦✦✦✧✧
Full Names
Île de Port-Cros
Parc National de Port-Cros
Size 4.2 x 2.4 km (2.6 x 1.5 mi)
Peak 200m (656ft)
Port-Cros is the wildest and most secret of the Îles d’Or. It’s tucked between Porquerolles and Le Levant, and it’s basically a natural sanctuary, fully protected since 1963 when the Port-Cros National Park was created, it was actually the first marine park in Europe. Nature runs the show here, fiercely protected, and every step you take feels like a quiet little adventure.
The island is completely car-free, which just adds to its out-of-time feeling. As soon as you arrive at the tiny tucked-away port, you can tell you’re stepping into a different world: no vehicles, barely any buildings, and nothing flashy. It’s raw Mediterranean nature all around you, with thick scrubland, deep coves, steep rocks, and hidden little beaches. Marked trails take you to amazing viewpoints, like old military forts or turquoise coves.
But the real magic of Port-Cros is underwater. It’s a paradise if you’re into nature or marine life. The water’s crystal clear and full of all kinds of sea creatures, thanks to super strict rules: no fishing, no anchoring outside marked zones, and you can’t take anything with you. Your best bet is to grab a mask and snorkel and go explore. You might see schools of saupe, colorful wrasse, curious groupers, and swaying seagrass.
You can get there by boat, with regular trips mainly from Hyères or Le Lavandou. Going to Port-Cros means slowing down. It’s all about switching off and soaking it all in.
Ferry
Duration (one-way) 35min
Price (round-trip) €29
Company
TLV TVM
📍 From Hyères
for each of these 2 links, select “Port-Cros”
⚙️ Schedules (Official Website)
⚙️ Prices (Official Website – Fr)
Levant
Appeal ✦✦✧✧✧
Full Name
Île du Levant
Size of the authorized area 1.2 x 0.5 km (0.7 x 0.3 mi)
Peak 138m (453ft)
Out of the three Îles d’Or off the coast of Hyères, Le Levant is definitely the most unique. While Porquerolles is a hit with families and Port-Cros draws nature lovers, Le Levant has carved out its own identity, totally centered around naturism and freedom. Here, swimsuits come off, naturism is a big part of life and has been since 1931, when the Héliopolis estate was created, known as the birthplace of organized naturism in Europe.
The island’s split into two areas: the western side, where Héliopolis is, is open to the public, while the larger eastern part is a military zone and totally off-limits. That setup actually helps protect the environment even more, nature is lush, buildings are few and far between, and there are no cars.
Héliopolis is a little hillside hamlet with low-key villas, a few shops, and accommodations that match the local lifestyle. Nudity is usually expected in public spaces, especially on the paths leading to the sea. The place has a loyal crowd looking for a peaceful, convention-free way of life, with respect for others and for nature.
The landscapes are classic Mediterranean: steep cliffs, hidden coves, fragrant scrubland, and stunning views over the deep blue sea. It’s less developed than the other islands and also less crowded, so you get a more personal and reflective experience.
You reach the island by boat from Le Lavandou or Hyères, with regular trips during the season. If you’re curious, respectful, and open to a different kind of Côte d’Azur experience, Le Levant will welcome you with its brilliant light.
Ferry
Duration (one-way) 35min
Price (round-trip) €34
Company
Vedettes Îles d’Or
📍 From Le Lavandou
⚙️ Official Website
Embiez
Appeal ✦✦✧✧✧
Full Name
Île des Embiez
Size 1 x 1 km (0.6 x 0.6 mi)
Peak 64m (210ft)
Just off the coast, the Île des Embiez is a small, charming getaway known for its peaceful vibe, untouched nature, and eco-friendly spirit. The island was bought in 1958 by Paul Ricard, the guy behind the pastis, who also happened to be a sea lover. Today, it’s seen as a great example of sustainable tourism.
It only takes a few minutes by boat from the port of Le Brusc, and as soon as you step off, you’ll feel the calm. No cars driving around, people get around on foot or by bike. The place is pure Mediterranean, with hidden coves, sandy or pebbly beaches, pine forests, and coastal trails.
It’s also a kind of ecological sanctuary. The island is home to the Paul Ricard Oceanographic Institute, founded in 1966, which plays an active role in marine research and protection.
If you’re into diving, the underwater scenery is amazing: rocky plateaus, steep drop-offs, and colorful gorgonians shelter all sorts of sea life, like groupers, moray eels, rockfish, and even barracudas, all swimming in super clear water.
Back on land, you can walk the entire island via the coastal path, taking in stunning sea views, quiet little coves, and patches of untouched scrubland. Far from the busy coast, the Île des Embiez offers a kind of simple luxury, just the sound of the sea, the wind, and the silence.
Ferry
Duration (one-way) 12min
Price (round-trip) €21
Company
Îles Paul Ricard
📍 From Le Brusc
⚙️ Schedules (Official Website – Fr)
⚙️ Prices (Official Website – Fr)
Grand Gaou
Appeal ✦✦✧✧✧
Full Name
Île du Grand Gaou
Size 0.5 x 0.2 km (0.3 x 0.1 mi)
Peak Flat
Right across from the port of Le Brusc, the Île du Grand Gaou feels like a little hideaway, totally removed from the noise and crowds of the coast. You get there by a footbridge, and once you’re on the island, it’s just peaceful nature all around: no houses, no shops, no engine sounds.
It’s not a place where people live, it’s more of a nature walk spot. A marked trail takes you across the island, with signs along the way that tell you about the local Mediterranean plants. You’ll catch the scents of Aleppo pine, thyme, rosemary, and immortelle mixed with the salty sea breeze, it’s super calming.
The shores are lined with rocky coves and small, quiet beaches, perfect if you want to take a dip away from the crowds. A few open viewpoints let you take in some stunning sights, like the nearby Embiez Islands and, when the sky’s clear, the Cap Sicié in the distance. It’s also a great place if you’re into birdwatching or nature photography.
Locals, families, and walkers love it, and it’s open to everyone all year round. If you’re in the mood for a simple but refreshing break in nature, the Île du Grand Gaou is perfect. It’s the kind of Mediterranean spot where silence, sunlight, and the natural world really take over.
Access on foot via a small footbridge.
Bendor
Appeal ✦✦✧✧✧
Full Name
Île de Bendor
Size 0.5 x 0.2 km (0.3 x 0.1 mi)
Peak Flat
The island is closed for renovation. Reopening is scheduled for 2026.
Just a stone’s throw from the town of Bandol, the island of Bendor stands out with its quirky and charming vibe, part picturesque, part totally unexpected. It used to belong to Paul Ricard, the famous businessman, and even though it’s tiny, the place packs in a surprising mix of atmospheres.
On Bendor, the Mediterranean feels almost like a stage set. You’ve got cobbled lanes lined with art galleries and craft workshops, little squares with sculptures, and a tiny harbor that looks like a perfect postcard version of a Provençal village. It’s all been designed to give you this out-of-time feeling, kind of theatrical, but really endearing.
Ricard imagined the island as a kind of artistic and cultural retreat. You’ll spot art pieces, bas-reliefs, columns, basically, the whole place is a mash-up of Greek, Oriental, and Provençal influences. It’s like a Mediterranean fantasy brought to life.
Even though it’s small, there are a few walking paths that let you wander along the coast, find a few little coves, and take in some pretty amazing views of Bandol and the surrounding hills.
You can get there in just a few minutes by boat from Bandol, and once you arrive, you’ll see, Bendor has its own strong personality. It’s a perfect example of that sun-soaked, whimsical side of the Côte d’Azur that isn’t afraid to be a little poetic and just enjoy the simple pleasures.
