Hyères and the Giens Peninsula offer an underwater world rich in biodiversity and wonders.
Scuba diving in Hyères, freediving and snorkeling are water sports that allow you to discover these hidden treasures.
Scuba diving is one of the most popular activities in the area. The crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean are home to a variety of corals, sponges, exotic fish, and fascinating sea creatures. The many dive centers in Hyères, including our partner, Club Espace Mer, offer dives for all levels, from beginners to experienced divers. You can explore spectacular underwater sites around the islands of Hyères, within the Port-Cros National Park, and the islet of La Gabinière, where you will discover shipwrecks, caves and abundant marine fauna.
If you prefer a more zen approach to underwater discovery, freediving is an exciting option. You’ll be able to venture deep without snorkel gear, simply using a wetsuit and fins. The calm, transparent waters of Hyères are ideal for freediving, offering stunning views of the underwater life.
Snorkeling, suitable for the whole family, is a perfect activity for those who want a lighter experience. All you need is fins, a mask and a snorkel to explore the shallow reefs along the coast. You’ll be able to swim among colorful fish, sea urchins, and marine plants while soaking up the sun.
Crédit photo écran d’accueil : ©Thierry Jouanin OTPM
To be discovered...
A MULTITUDE OF WATER ACTIVITIES IN HYÈRES
The diversity of water sports available in Hyères on the Giens Peninsula is simply breathtaking. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a lover of leisurely recreation, there’s something for everyone.
For lovers of wind and speed, windsurfing is an exceptional option. Hyères is renowned for its ideal wind conditions, making it one of the best places in France to practice this sport, especially in Almanarre. The sensation of gliding on the water, carried by the wind, is incomparable.
Kitesurfing is another thrilling option for thrill seekers. With your board and a kite, you’ll be able to soar over the waves, performing spectacular jumps and aerial maneuvers (for the more experienced). Kitesurfing schools in Hyères, including our partner MFKite, offer lessons for beginners and experienced practitioners.
Wing Foil is a very fashionable water activity that combines foiling and a wing kite. You can glide over the water, propelled by the wind, while using the kite to control your direction. It’s a unique experience that gives you a feeling of total freedom.
For those who prefer more leisurely activities, Hyères also offers plenty of options. Paddle boarding, for example, allows you to paddle along the coast at your own pace, while enjoying the seascape. The longe-côte, an activity that consists of walking in the water, is a relaxing way to discover the beaches of Hyères.
If you want to explore hidden coves and sea caves, sea kayaking is the perfect activity. You will be able to paddle to inaccessible places at the foot of the cliffs of the Giens Peninsula, creating unique memories. Speed enthusiasts can also opt for jet ski rental in Hyères for an intense nautical adventure.
SAILING AND NAUTICAL EVENTS IN HYÈRES
Hyères is also a mecca for sailing, with a long tradition of competitions and regattas.
Whether you’re an experienced sailor or just want to enjoy a sea ride, there are options for everyone.
Sailing in Hyères is a very popular activity. You can rent sailboats or boats with or without a license, depending on your level. Sailing along the coast, admiring the beautiful seascapes, is an unforgettable experience. You can also opt for a catamaran for a nautical adventure as a duo or in a group.
An unmissable event in Hyères is the Olympic Sailing Week (SOF). This prestigious event takes place every year at the end of April in the Bay of Hyères. It attracts sailors from all over the world for high-level competition. Spectators have the opportunity to watch exciting races and see the best sailors in action. The SOF is also an opportunity to discover the latest innovations in sailing and to enjoy the festive atmosphere that reigns over the Port of Hyères.
In conclusion, the Giens Peninsula in Hyères offers a treasure trove of discoveries for lovers of the sea and water sports. Whether you want to explore the depths of the sea, feel the adrenaline of wind sports, or simply relax by paddling along the coast, Hyères has it all. No matter your skill level or experience, everyone in Hyères can enjoy a rich experience of aquatic adventures.
French Olympic Week in Hyères
Leisure ideas
Find here our selection to enjoy water sports on the Giens Peninsula.
Kitesurfing School
The Mfkite kitesurfing and wingfoil school is located in La Madrague and offers lessons on the Bay of Almanarre, known worldwide for its regular wind conditions and sunshine.
Diving and snorkeling
The Club Espace Mer invites you to discover the seabed and the coast of the Giens Peninsula by scuba diving or snorkelling.
Boat & Kayak Rental
La Petite Flottille, at the Port du Niel or the Port of La Madrague, boat rental (with or without a license), sea kayaks and paddles !
Tour Fondue archaeological underwater trail, Pointe du Bouvet
Underwater, just a few meters from the shore, and at a shallow depth (6 meters), the route is marked with explanatory leaflets. Amphorae discovered on the wreck of the Madrague, found in the early 1970s in Giens, have been re-submerged. The remains were installed on the edge of Pointe du Bouvet, thus forming an archaeological underwater trail. Photo : (c) Hyères Tourisme
Boat rental - kayaks / La Petite Flottille
At the Port du Niel or the Port de La Madrague, boat rental (with or without a license), sea kayaks and paddles!
Snorkeling le long de la côte Sud (Polynésie, Port Auguier)
Snorkeling, suitable for the whole family, is a perfect activity for those who want a lighter experience. All you need is fins, a mask and a snorkel to explore the shallow reefs along the coast. You can swim among colorful fish, sea urchins and marine plants while soaking up the sun.
Snorkeling - Western Part (Calanque du Blé, Pointe des Chevaliers)
Snorkeling, suitable for the whole family, is a perfect activity for those who want a lighter experience. All you need is fins, a mask and a snorkel to explore the shallow reefs along the coast. You can swim among colorful fish, sea urchins and marine plants while soaking up the sun.
Kitesurfing
Here’s another thrilling option for thrill seekers. With your board and a kite wing, you can soar above the waves, performing spectacular jumps and aerial maneuvers (for the more experienced). Almanarre Beach Kite Zone.
Windsurfing
For wind and speed lovers, windsurfing is an exceptional option. Hyères is renowned for its ideal wind conditions, making it one of the best places in France to practice this sport, particularly in Almanarre.
Wingfoil
Wing Foil is a very popular nautical activity that combines a foil board and a wing kite. You can glide over the water, powered by the wind, while using the wing to control your direction. It’s a unique experience that provides a feeling of total freedom.
Stand up paddle - East side
Paddle along the coast at your own pace, while enjoying the seascape. Departure from Beach La Badine.
Stand-up paddle - West side
Paddle along the coast at your own pace, while enjoying the seascape. Departure from Beach La Badine.
Along the coast
An activity which consists of walking in the water, a relaxing way to discover the beaches of Hyères. Departure from Badine Beach. Photo: (c) Hyères Tourisme
Sea kayak (East)
Reach inaccessible places at the foot of the cliffs of the Giens Peninsula, explore hidden coves and sea caves, creating unique memories. Departure possible from many areas (Badine, Almanarre, Tour Fondue, Darboussières, Port Auguier, etc…).
Sea kayaking (west side)
Reach inaccessible places at the foot of the cliffs of the Giens Peninsula, explore hidden coves and sea caves, creating unique memories. Departure possible from many areas (Badine, Almanarre, Tour Fondue, Darboussières, Port Auguier, etc…).
Sea kayak (south side)
Reach inaccessible places at the foot of the cliffs of the Giens Peninsula, explore hidden coves and sea caves, creating unique memories. Departure possible from many areas (Badine, Almanarre, Tour Fondue, Darboussières, Port Auguier, etc…).