What to Do in Cannes During Your Stay in the Alpes-Maritimes?

The Beaches of Cannes

The beaches of Cannes offer an idyllic setting for those who love fine sand and turquoise waters. Stretching over 7 kilometers, they include both public and private beaches, each with its own charm.

The beaches along the Croisette are among the most famous, bordered by the iconic promenade. Here, visitors can enjoy fine dining and exclusive amenities on the private beaches, all while taking in the spectacular views of the Lérins Islands and the Estérel Mountains.

• For a more local experience, Gazagnaire Beach and the beach near Mouré Rouge are ideal, offering a quieter setting with a variety of water activities such as kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.
• Further west, beaches such as Boccacabana and those along Boulevard du Midi are perfect for relaxing, with a lush promenade connecting them.

The Lérins Islands, accessible by boat, are home to hidden beaches where you can enjoy the crystal-clear water in complete tranquility. Whether you’re looking for a seaside lunch, a lively evening out, or simply to relax in the sun, the beaches of Cannes offer a wide variety of options to suit every taste.

Water Activities to Do in Cannes

In Cannes, water sports offer an impressive array of thrills and discoveries. For diving enthusiasts,the underwater eco-museum—the first of its kind in France—features submerged sculptures by Jason de Caires Taylor, accessible to everyone with a mask and snorkel. This unique activity takes place in clear, supervised waters that have been awarded the Blue Flag.

Water sports enthusiasts will find what they’re looking for at Palm Beach, a renowned spot for kitesurfing and windsurfing, where the waves and stunning scenery make for spectacular sessions. For those who prefer more laid-back water sports, water skiing and stand-up paddleboarding are also very popular.

Thrills are guaranteed with jet skiing and parasailing, which offer breathtaking views of the Bay of Cannes along with an adrenaline rush. Towed tubes add an extra touch of fun for speed lovers.

Boat trips offer the chance to explore the magnificent Lérins Islands by kayak or boat, with options for private cruises or boat rentals, with or without a skipper. Organized cruises are also available, allowing you to discover sites such as the Corniche d’Or and Monaco.

The Markets of Cannes

The best way to soak up the Provençal spirit of Cannes is still to stroll through the market aisles! There’s no shortage of options, with three farmers’ markets:

• The covered market at the Forville Market Hall. It’s a very popular spot, said to offer the best local produce—including fruits, vegetables, fish, and flowers—from Tuesday through Sunday morning.
• The market at Place Gambetta. It’s the place to find great deals, with a wide selection of fruits and vegetables, local fish, flowers, and clothing: Tuesday through Sunday morning
• The market in the Bocca neighborhood is full of life and color. You can find everything there, from fish to fruits and vegetables, as well as flowers and clothing: Tuesday through Sunday morning

In the summer, the night markets are also among the must-see events in Cannes. From 7 p.m. to midnight, you can find local cuisine, as well as home decor and souvenirs.

The addresses to remember are:
– Esplanade Pantiero: Tuesday evening
– Place du Marché de la Bocca: Wednesday evening
– Promenade Jean Hibert (Old Port): Thursday evening

Finally, explore the flea markets in Cannes, featuring secondhand goods and artisan crafts. To find old books, antiques, or tableware, head to the Forville Market Hall on Mondays or under the large plane trees along the Allées de la Liberté on weekends.