Discover Île Sainte-Marguerite: The Perfect Day Trip from Cannes
A Hidden Oasis Off the Cannes Coast
Close enough to be seen off the coast of Cannes, the little island of Ile Sainte Marguerite is a soothing space that’s perfect for a day trip to reconnect with nature. A quiet walk through the pine forest, listening to bird song as the gentle Mediterranean breeze swirled fresh, sharp, woody scent through the air.
My day trip to Île Sainte-Marguerite was a much-needed break from a busy week of networking, panels, and endless flow of chilled rosé during Cannes Lions. My mind and spirit craved some slow, introverted time to connect with my camera and peaceful surroundings.
Getting to Île Sainte-Marguerite
Camera in hand, I left my room at the historic Hotel Carlton and headed to Cannes harbor. The only way to reach Île Sainte-Marguerite is by ferry (or yacht, if you’re fancy), and several companies operate regular trips from Cannes port with tickets you can buy on the spot.
During the 15 minute boat ride, the Mediterranean sea expanded with shades of blue blending into the horizon, and the salty sea breeze added a refreshing start to my day. The further we drifted from Cannes, the calmer my spirit felt.
Stepping off the boat and onto the island, I decided to treat myself to a leisurely seaside lunch at La Guérite, the island’s only restaurant. Set right on the water, they serve fresh seafood, salads, and pasta with panoramic views. It’s a bit overpriced (as expected in Cannes) but the grilled fish and crisp rosé were worth it. If you’re on a budget or have dietary restrictions, packing a picnic is a great alternative — and be sure to bring plenty of water, as there are few places to buy drinks on the island.
Travel Tip: During festival season, ferries can fill up quickly, so it’s a good idea to book your ticket in advance. If you're visiting in peak summer, aim for an early afternoon arrival when the crowds start to thin out. If it's in your budget, a private boat rental will bring you here; what an amazing way to enjoy the island! This option would give you a chance to see golden hour here which I expect is stunning.
Walking Tranquil Trails
After lunch, I set off to explore. The warm summer air was infused with the fresh aroma of eucalyptus, Aleppo pine and cypress trees. With each inhale, I felt my nervous system relaxing. The island’s network of trails winds through forests and along rocky coastlines, leading to quiet pockets of nature where cicadas buzzed in the heat, their rhythmic hum blending with the sound of waves lapping against the shore. I wandered through shaded pine groves, past patches of wildflowers—lavender, thyme, and bright yellow broom—lined the paths, adding splashes of color to the earthy landscape.
The island is perfect for nature lovers and birdwatchers alike, I spotted cormorants and gulls resting along the shoreline. The stillness of the water made for a perfect photography moment—nature, untouched and serene. here's more to Île Sainte-Marguerite than nature; it has a rich history as well. One of the island's main attractions is Fort Royal, where the Man in the Iron Mask was imprisoned. The stone walls hold centuries of history, and from the top, you can see the Cannes coastline.
Photo Tip: Look for dappled sunlight filtering through the leaves, this Japanese aesthetic is called Komorebi. and it’s one of my favorite views to capture (see the fig leaf photo below).
I explored the trails and then made my way to Plage du Dragon, a secluded beach with clear water and shaded areas under the pines, unlike Cannes' crowded beaches. Sailboats bobbed lazily in the distance as the Mediterranean shimmered in brilliant shades of turquoise. The refreshingly cool water felt perfect after hiking in the midday sun
It’s not the soft sand you’ll find on mainland beaches; Île Sainte-Marguerite has rocky beaches and stunning coves, so keep in mind water shoes would be helpful. I've used the ones from Saltwater, and this pair has been to many beaches with me over the years!
I boarded the ferry back to Cannes, sun-kissed and recharged, I knew this little island would stay with me. It’s the kind of place that lingers in your memory—a peaceful retreat just minutes from the buzz of the city, yet a world away. Would I visit again? Absolutely. Next time, I’ll bring my Canon AE-1 and spend more time capturing the island’s peaceful rhythms on film.
Quick Tips for Visiting Île Sainte-Marguerite:
If you’re looking for a break from the glitz of Cannes, Île Sainte-Marguerite is the perfect day trip for hiking through pine forests, swimming in clear waters, or photographing the island’s wild beauty.
Pack smart: Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes for walking.
Plan ahead: Check ferry schedules, especially in the off-season.
Go slow: This is a place to unwind, so take your time exploring and soaking in the beauty. Bring your camera, journal or a set of watercolors and take a chance to tap into mindful creativity.
