20 water sports activities on the Mediterranean coast in the South of France

2. Snorkeling

The underwater world is always fascinating. Around Porquerolles, Cap d'Antibes and the Calanques of Cassis you can go snorkelling and you will see underwater landscapes with fish, starfish and seagrass beds. Snorkeling is easy, safe and also suitable for children, especially in the mornings when the sea is often calm. All you need is a pair of goggles. Many local beach clubs rent out snorkel sets or organize short tours with guides. Snorkelling is a fun way to explore the sea during your holiday.

3. Diving

For those who  want to go deeper, the Mediterranean Sea has some popular dive sites. Off the coast of Hyères, you will find old shipwrecks full of marine life, and at Cavalaire-sur-Mer, you can see beautiful reef structures. To dive independently, a diving certification is required, but many dive centers offer introductory dives. Even without experience, you can descend into the quiet world below the surface of the water with an instructor.

4. Sailing

Provence and Côte d'Azur are famous for their sailing tradition. From ports such as Bandol, Fréjus and Toulon, you can rent a sailboat or join a skippered day trip. The wind plays with the sails, the sun shines on the water and in the distance you can see the coastline slowly gliding by. You will sail along the seaside resorts of the Mediterranean. On some boat excursions the boat will moor somewhere halfway through the trip so that you can visit a village. You do not need a license for small sailboats, but you do need a license for larger ones. Sailing is a fun water sports activity for families: it's relaxing for some, adventurous for others.

5. Canoeing

For those who want to take it easy, canoeing is ideal. The coast of Esterel and the bay of Agay are beautiful places to go canoeing. The water is clear and calm, the cliffs red and imposing. Most canoes can accommodate several people, which allows you to bring along young children. At most rental shops you can rent a canoe for half a day. Canoeing gives you the freedom to stop at small beaches along the way. You don't need any experience, just bring a hat and sunscreen.

6. Fliteboarding

One of the newest water sports on the Côte d'Azur is fliteboarding: surfing on an electrically powered board that floats above the water. In Antibes and Cannes you can rent this innovative board, usually with short instruction. Drive from your luxury villa in Provence to the coast and experience the thrill. Fliteboarding is especially suitable for adults and offers a futuristic touch to a classic beach day.

7. Supping

Stand-up paddle boarding (supping) has become an integral part of the southern French coast. With a large board and a paddle, you move quietly over the water. In Saint-Aygulf, Le Lavandou and La Londe-les-Maures you canrent boards. Supping is accessible and good fun for both young and old and the ideal sport to practise in calm weather. As you move across the water, all you can hear is your paddle gliding through the water and the gentle lapping of the sea. If you want to do something active with your family, then supping is a fun activity.

8. Parasailing

Parasailing gives you the feeling of freedom and silence. From places like Nice, Cannes and Saint-Raphaël you can go parasailing. With a parachute behind a boat, you slowly ascend until you float high above the sea. Below you you can see the turquoise waters, the coastline and the shimmer of the sun. You don't need experience or a diploma, but you do need courage and enthusiasm.

10. Pedal boating

Sometimes simplicity is the most fun. Rent a pedal boat at the beach and quietly make your way along the coast together. Your children can slide down the slide whilst you enjoy the view. Many beaches, such as Sainte-Maxime and La Londe-les-Maures, offer pedal boat rental. Do not forget to bring life jackets for your children and sunscreen.

11. Catamaran

A trip with a catamaran is a special experience. From ports such as Saint-Tropez or Fréjus, daily trips depart across the Mediterranean Sea. There is often catering on board and sometimes a trip even comes with lunch or dinner. You will sail with your group along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, the anchor will be dropped in quiet bays and you will have the opportunity to swim in the clear blue waters. The wide deck space makes it suitable for families or groups of friends who want to enjoy a day at sea. You can rent a small catamaran yourself, but you must have a license.

12. Boat trip

An organized boat trip on the Mediterranean Sea will show you the most beautiful places on the coast. Around Hyères, there are small islands in the Mediterranean Sea and hidden beaches that can only be reached by boat. Most tours are accompanied by a local guide, who will tell you about the sea, nature and coastal life. There are also boat trips to St. Tropez or other tourist places on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea.

13. Water Skiing

Water skiing, gliding over water behind a boat, remains a fan-favourite. In Fréjus-Plage and Saint-Aygulf, there are water sports centers that offer lessons for beginners. After a short explanation, you get on a pair of skis and feel the tension of the water under your feet. You don't need a license, but you do need a good dose of energy. It is often possible for children from the age of 12 to go water skiing.

1. Is a boating license required for water sports?
For jet skis and motorboats with more than 6 hp, a boating license is required. Licenses are not necessary for the rental of canoes, pedal boats, SUPs or small sailing boats without an engine. 

2. Which water sports are suitable for children?
Children especially enjoy swimming, snorkeling, supping and pedal boating. For the slightly older children, windsurfing and going on a banana boat are also great. Many beaches have clubs that offer special children's activities with the supervision of qualified instructors. These beaches often slope gently into the sea. Places like Sainte-Maxime, Le Lavandou and Hyères are child-friendly.

3. What water sports can you do with the whole family?
Families often opt for stand-up paddleboarding, snorkelling, pedal boating, canoeing or a boat trip along the coast. These activities are safe, relaxed and offer plenty of fun for young and old. The banana boat is also a favorite with families with older children who like a bit of action.

4. Where can you learn how to kitesurf or sail?
There are numerous schools along the Côte d'Azur, especially in Hyères and Saint-Raphaël, who teach kitesurfing and sailing. At most schools you can choose between courses ranging from one day to a whole week.

5. What are the newest water sports that can be practised on the Mediterranean Sea?
In recent years, innovative sports such as fliteboarding (electric surfing) and flyboarding have been on the rise. E-foil boards and electric jet skis are also becoming increasingly popular, as they are quieter and more environmentally friendly. These modern water sports are possible at beach clubs in Cannes, Antibes, and Saint-Tropez.

6. Which water sports are the most dangerous?
Water sports with high speeds or strong winds, such as kite surfing, jet skiing and flyboarding, require experience and attention to safety. It is important to always use certified rental companies and follow the instructions of instructors. With good guidance, these activities are safe and spectacular.