Lérins Islands near Cannes
Just a stone’s throw from La Croisette – on the opposite side of the Bay of Cannes – are the Lérins Islands. The archipelago consists of four islands, of which Île Sainte-Marguerite and Île Saint-Honorat are the largest and most interesting. The two smallest islands are basically small rock formations in the sea.
The islands can be reached by boat service from Cannes, Mandelieu, Golfe-Juan and Nice, and the crossing takes from 15-60 minutes.
Île Sainte-Marguerite – prison, forests and underwater art
Île Sainte-Marguerite is the largest of the islands, measuring approximately 3 km in length and 900 meters in width. The island is covered in forest and paths and is especially known for its old prison Fort Royal where the mysterious Man in the Iron Mask was imprisoned in the 1600s. Today the fort houses a museum with maritime and archaeological exhibitions.
A special attraction on the island is Cannes’ underwater museum where six monumental sculptures by Jason deCaires Taylor are submerged in shallow water. They can be experienced with snorkel and mask – a unique encounter between art and the marine environment.
Places to eat in Sainte-Marguerite
There are two restaurants on the island:
L’Escale, by the ferry dock, offers simple dishes and cold drinks in a relaxed setting.
Located in a small bay, La Guérite is an exclusive beach restaurant with Mediterranean-inspired gourmet cuisine and a lively atmosphere. Table reservations are strongly recommended during high season.
Île Saint-Honorat – monastic life and Cistercian wine
The nearby island of Île Saint-Honorat is smaller – about 1.5 km long and 400 meters wide – but has an equally fascinating history. For over 1,500 years it has been home to a Cistercian monastery where monks still live and work today.
The island offers peaceful paths, chapels and ruins as well as the opportunity to visit the impressive medieval monastery. In the monastery shop you can buy wine, liqueur and olive oil produced on the island.
Restaurant at Saint-Honorat
La Tonnelle is beautifully situated on the water’s edge and serves Mediterranean cuisine, often prepared with ingredients from the island itself – including the monastery’s own wines.
Ferry to the Lérins Islands – from Cannes and Nice
There are regular ferries from Cannes to both islands. The crossing takes approximately 15 minutes to Île Sainte-Marguerite and 20 minutes to Île Saint-Honorat.
During the summer months, there is also a direct ferry from Nice to Sainte-Marguerite, with a sailing time of approximately 1 hour – ideal for day trippers from Nice.
Read more about the ferries and ticket reservations here.
The islands are car-free and have no accommodation, which contributes to their peaceful atmosphere. Remember to bring water, sun protection and snorkeling equipment.
3 sights close to the Lérins Islands
La Croisette in Cannes – The iconic promenade with luxury hotels, palm trees and designer boutiques.
Musée de la Castre – Museum with views of Cannes and exhibitions in an old castle.
Le Suquet – The old town of Cannes.
By Tommy Sverre – updated 2025
