Port-Cros is the most wild and protected of the Hyères islands: total reserve, cars banned, fishing forbidden, anchoring strictly regulated. The seabed is among the richest in the Mediterranean — protected since 1963, the underwater life has thrived. A 1h crossing from Hyères or 1h15 from Le Lavandou.
The island's flagship attraction is the underwater discovery trail at La Palud beach: a 20-minute snorkel along marked buoys, with information signs (printable underwater guide available at the entrance) explaining the species — groupers, Mediterranean rainbow wrasse, fan worms, posidonia meadows. Unique in France — bring or rent mask + snorkel + fins (€10 on site).
Beyond the underwater trail, land hikes are extensive: La Palud-Solitude-Port loop (2h, easy), Fort de la Vigie panorama (3h, medium), full island circuit (5-6h). Pack a picnic — only one restaurant on the island.
Getting there and entry rules
Public shuttles only:
- From Hyères Port: 1h crossing, €30-35 round trip per adult. Departures every 1-2h in season.
- From Le Lavandou: 1h15 crossing, €35-40 round trip. Less crowded.
- From Cavalaire or Saint-Tropez area: rare, mostly via Le Lavandou connection.
Limited daily entries on the island in summer (4,500 max/day) — best to book the shuttle ahead.
Underwater discovery trail
The unique experience:
- Arrive at the village port, walk 20 min to La Palud beach (signposted, mostly flat).
- Pick up the underwater map at the kiosk (free). Rent mask + snorkel + fins (€10).
- Follow the 5 marked buoys, each with an information panel underwater (printed on plasticized paper, attached to a stake).
- Allow 20-30 min for a complete tour. Easy swimming, water 2-5m deep.
- Best time: 10am-12pm when the sun lights the seabed.
From age 6 with a parent. Mandatory swimming ability (1m+). Free of charge once on the island.
Land hikes and key sites
The main walks:
- La Palud-Solitude-Port loop (2h, 5 km): the easy one. Through pine woods, vineyards, panoramic view of the bay.
- Sentier du Sud (4h, 10 km): around the south of the island. Wild, more demanding, with calanques.
- Full island tour (6h, 15 km): the complete walk. Allow to start early.
- Mont Vinaigre (3h, 8 km): the highest point (194m), 360° view to Porquerolles and the Hyères mainland.
Bring water (2L per person), sun cream, hat. No supplies on the path, only at the village.
Lunch on the island
Only options:
- La Trinité (port restaurant): traditional cuisine, fresh fish, sea view. Limited covers, book ahead in season. €35-55.
- Snack at the port (sandwiches, drinks): for those preferring a quick bite.
- Picnic on the beach: many people bring their own (no rubbish — pack it all out).
No supermarket. Bring picnic from the mainland or count on La Trinité.
Frequently asked questions
Vehicles really banned?
Yes. Only park rangers' service vehicles allowed. The island is a strict reserve.
Is the underwater trail accessible to anyone?
Yes, with a 1-metre swimming ability. Children from 6 with a parent. Free, but bring or rent mask at the entry kiosk.
Where to eat on the island?
Only La Trinité port restaurant. Limited covers, best to book or bring a picnic.
Combine with Porquerolles?
Yes — possible to combine on the same day with the inter-island shuttle. Better to dedicate a full day to each for the calm pace.
Can we anchor with a private boat?
Anchoring strictly regulated in the park. Only authorized mooring buoys at the port. Best to take a shuttle and not bring a private boat.