Paddle and sea kayak access the calanques and creeks no boat can reach: stop in tiny coves, swim from your board, observe the seabed in a transparent kayak. Ideal for a 1-2h slow morning, before the wind picks up.
The boards and kayaks are stable, family-friendly, and require no training — anyone can master them in 10-15 minutes. Sea kayaks (sit-on-top type) are particularly stable. Transparent kayaks let you see the seabed and fish — popular with kids.
Top spots in Var: Le Mugel and Coudoulière calanques in Bandol, Cap Nègre and L'Estagnol cove between Cavalière and Le Lavandou, Cap Lardier peninsula (sentier du littoral by sea), La Madrague and Port d'Alon in Saint-Cyr.
Rates and formats
Multiple formats available:
- Free paddle/kayak rental 1h: €15-25 per person.
- Free rental half-day: €40-60.
- Free rental full day: €60-90.
- Guided paddle outing 1h30: €35-50 per person.
- Guided sea kayak outing 2-3h: €45-70 per person.
- Transparent kayak (limited availability): €40-60 per hour.
Most rentals include the equipment, paddle, and a brief safety briefing. Life jacket optional but recommended.
Where to rent — by zone
Departure points across the department:
- Bandol: Lecques beach, Bandol harbour. Calanques tour.
- Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer: Port d'Alon, Lecques. Coastal trail by sea.
- Hyères / Giens: La Madrague, Almanarre. Salt flats and lagoons.
- Cavalaire / Lavandou: Cap Nègre, L'Estagnol cove. Wild coast.
- Saint-Raphaël: Anthéor, La Figueirette. Red Estérel rocks.
- Pampelonne: south end, away from the beach clubs.
Each spot has its own beauty — we suggest based on your stay location and tides.
Tips for a great session
A few practical tips:
- Best time: 8-10am when the sea is mirror-flat. Wind picks up around 11am-12pm in summer.
- Avoid days of mistral (>20 knots): unsafe and exhausting.
- Bring waterproof phone case (some rentals have small waterproof bags).
- Wear sun cream, hat, sunglasses with a strap.
- Take a water bottle (1L per person for 2 hours).
- Wear swimwear — you might tip over, especially first-timers.
Children from 6: yes, in a 2-seater kayak with an adult. Solo paddleboard from 10-12 depending on confidence and swim ability.
Combinations and tips
Popular formulas:
- Paddle morning + beach club lunch: €80-120 per person all-in.
- Sunrise paddle (6:30-8am): magical light, completely empty sea. €40-60 per person.
- Guided sunset paddle: golden hour. €50-70 per person.
- Half-day kayak with snorkel + picnic: €60-90 per person.
For groups of 6+, possible to book a dedicated instructor for safety and route guidance.
Frequently asked questions
Suitable for beginners?
Yes — paddle is intuitive after 10 minutes. Sea kayak too, especially the sit-on-top type (stable, easy to get back on).
Children?
Yes from 6 in a two-person kayak with an adult. Some partners offer kid-sized boards.
Best time of day?
Early morning (8-10am): sea like a mirror, no wind, no crowd. Avoid mid-afternoon when the breeze rises.
Safety?
Life jacket mandatory or strongly recommended. Stay close to the coast. Inform on departure / return time. Avoid offshore wind.
Can we swim during the outing?
Yes — that's the whole point. Stop in a cove, swim from your board or kayak. Bring goggles for snorkelling around posidonia meadows.