Snorkelling on the French Riviera has been on the rise for several years. For me, it has become a real ritual every weekend and even several days a week before or after work.
What is snorkeling?
Before revealing my 3 favourite spots, let’s have a brief summary of what snorkeling is. It’s simply an aquatic hike in which you go to admire the sea bed with the essential equipment you need: fins, mask and snorkel. Unlike diving, which requires a greater investment in terms of equipment, snorkeling is simple and effective. Indeed, one remains essentially on the surface. It is quite possible to dive to get closer to the bottom and stay underwater, but it all depends on your comfort and your ability to hold your breath.
Prerequisites for snorkeling
It is a simple activity that does not require too many constraints. To practice snorkeling in the best conditions, all you need to do is :
- know how to swim well and be comfortable in the water
- to have a good equipment: mask with a good field of vision, a snorkel to breathe underwater and fins for an optimal comfort.
- to have a neoprene suit, especially if you practice outside the summer season
A selection of snorkeling masks
If you are not yet equipped, I have prepared a selection of quality snorkeling masks for you. I based myself on the volume of customer reviews, their content and the overall rating to provide you with this list.
- Emsmil Diving Mask
A 180 Degree Panoramic Mask – The Integrated Full Snorkel – A Full Face Diving Mask – Anti-Fog and Anti-Leak Breathing – Ear Plugs – Phone Bag for Adults and Children
Price: €23.99
2 Colors Available: Blue and Black
See the product: https://amzn.to/4cKBivY
- Arlierss Diving Mask
180 Degree Panoramic Diving Goggle – A tempered glass anti-fog diving mask – Dry snorkel – Unisex
Price: €29.99
4 Colors available: Green, Pink, Blue and Black
See the product: https://amzn.to/4d2mpp7
- The Cressi Perla mask
The mask for aquatic hiking and freediving – Dry snorkel – One size – Unisex
Price: €18.99
Several colors available: black, green, transparent…
See the product: https://amzn.to/3MsUm76
My 7 favourite spots for snorkeling on the French Riviera
I would like to point out, of course, that this list is not exhaustive and that I would be delighted if you could share with me your favourite places for snorkelling on the Côte d’Azur. We all have our own habits and generally, we always return to the same favourite places. So here are mine:
The creeks of Saint-Raphaël
From the calanque of Maubois to the calanque of the English via the creeks of Saint-Barthélémy, the calanques of Saint-Raphaël are known to be exceptional places for snorkeling. Wild creeks with red rocks contrasted by the transparent blue lagoon sea in which various and varied sea beds are hidden.
Saint-Jean Cap Ferrat
All along the coastal path of Saint-Jean Cap Ferrat, starting from the fair beach, you will find sublime coasts with small wild creeks and natural pools with turquoise water. Perfect spots to go and admire the fish and even starfish. The richness of the seabed is just incredible.
Saint-Jean Cap Ferrat is also known for its 3 beaches, which are also famous for snorkelling: plage de la Fosse, plage des Fossettes, plage Paloma
La Réserve de Nice
If you live in Nice and don’t want to take the train or drive, the Nice Reserve is a great place to go snorkeling. The water is clear, even crystal clear. Ideal for admiring small fish early in the morning. I love going there in the summer early at 8am before the masses of people arrive.
The bay of Villefranche sur Mer
The sublime bay of Villefrance sur mer is one of the most beautiful snorkeling spots. From the Citadel to the beach of the guardian angel via the famous beach of the marinières, you will be surprised by the diversity of the seabed.
Mala Beach
One of the most beautiful beaches on the French Riviera! Mala Beach offers an exceptional setting: wild cove, turquoise blue sea, private beach and an incredible snorkeling spot along the cliffs where you can come across many fish.
The Cap d’Antibes
The Cap d’Antibes is a must-see place on the French Riviera and offers a relaxing break away from the city. You will find some small creeks with a wild decor. Not far from the Eden Roc, you will find happiness during your snorkeling sessions
Eze Seaside
One of my favourites! Nothing to do with those mentioned above. What makes it different? Its white sand dunes. This decor transported me to Corsica. On the other hand, you will find few fish, just one or two.
