Cassis is one of southern France’s most scenic spots, famous for its dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and rugged calanques—those stunning rocky inlets. While many travelers enjoy just gazing at the views, Cassis offers fantastic ways to experience the Calanques National Park firsthand. We especially love stand-up paddleboarding for its peaceful boat-like perspective on the cliffs, and sea kayaking for getting up close to the coves and marine life. Whichever option you choose, you’ll see a side of Cassis that many overlook.
If you’re eager to explore the Calanques, these tours offer a practical mix of adventure, expert guidance, and genuine immersion in this rugged landscape. Whether you’re paddling along the cliffs or quietly gliding through turquoise waters, Cassis’s marine scenery is guaranteed to leave a mark.
Quick Overview
Below, you’ll find a curated list of the best national park tours in Cassis. Each offers a different way to connect with the Calanques’ wild beauty:
- For a relaxed yet immersive experience, check out Cassis: Stand UP paddle in the Calanques National Park
- If you prefer exploring by sea with a bit more activity and wildlife viewing, try Cassis: half-day sea kayaking trip in the Calanques National Park
- Finally, for a guided, learn-to-paddle experience that emphasizes skill and fun, see Cassis: Stand UP paddle in the creeks national park
1. Cassis: Stand UP paddle in the Calanques National Park
At number 1, this stand-up paddleboarding tour offers a unique, calming way to see the Calanques. Priced at $59 per person for a 3.5-hour experience, it’s ideal for those wanting a gentle introduction to the park’s stunning geology. The tour is led by a passionate guide who specializes in paddleboarding and knows the region intimately—meaning they’ll ensure good weather conditions and safe navigation, even if you’re new to the sport.
The experience starts from Port Miou, a calm and scenic starting point, and involves about three hours on the water. You’ll paddle along the cliffs, with your guide sharing insights into the area’s geology, flora, and fauna. Because the equipment is top quality, even beginners can feel confident. This trip isn’t just about paddling; it’s about connecting with the landscape from a unique water-level perspective. Reviewers praise the guide’s skill in adapting to different skill levels, and many mention how the calm, clear waters make for a beautifully tranquil paddle.
Bottom line: If you’re after a peaceful, scenic experience with a personal touch, this tour offers great value and an authentic way to explore the park’s beauty.
2. Cassis: half-day sea kayaking trip in the Calanques National Park
At number 2, this sea kayaking excursion takes you deeper into the Calanques’ most famous coves. Priced at $91 per person, it lasts around 3 hours, departing from Cassis’s Port-Miou. What makes this trip stand out is the guided route through Port-Miou, Port-Pin, and En-Vau—the most iconic calanques with their steep cliffs and azure waters.
Your bilingual guide, with extensive local knowledge, will lead you through calmer waters, with stops for marine life and wildlife observation. The itinerary includes 1 hour in En-Vau, one of the most picturesque spots in the park, and another hour exploring Port-Miou’s calm inlets. Since the tour is guided by an experienced professional, it’s suitable for those with some kayaking experience or even beginners eager to learn. The reviews are glowing, often highlighting how the guide’s knowledge enhances the trip and how close you get to the cliffs and marine life.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for those wanting a more active, immersive experience, combining sport, scenery, and nature observation.
3. Cassis: Stand UP paddle in the creeks national park
Rounding out the list at number 3, this stand-up paddle tour emphasizes learning and skill development. Priced at about $57.62 for roughly 3 hours, the trip is led by a passionate guide who’s also a stand-up paddle specialist. The focus isn’t just on paddling, but on teaching techniques, making it ideal for beginners or those who want to improve their stance and confidence.
The tour covers the Calanques, with the guide sharing insights about the geography and marine environment. Reviewers mention that their guide, John, was excellent at adapting to different skill levels, making everyone feel comfortable. Many highlight how the water’s clarity and the views of the cliffs from the water are breathtaking. The tour’s value lies in the mix of instruction, scenic paddling, and a small group setting, which enhances the experience.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in a friendly, educational paddle experience with beautiful views, this tour offers excellent value and a chance to truly connect with the landscape.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these Calanques tours, consider your budget, activity level, and what kind of experience you’re after. If you prefer a relaxed, scenic paddle with a personal touch, the first stand-up paddle tour is perfect. For a more active adventure that dives into marine wildlife and iconic coves, the sea kayaking trip might suit you better. If you’re new to paddling or want to improve your skills while enjoying the views, the learning-focused paddle tour is a great pick.
Think about the time you have available—these tours range from 3 to 3.5 hours—and consider the level of physical activity you’re comfortable with. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak summer months when these tours fill quickly.
Final Recommendations
Cassis offers several fantastic ways to experience its stunning Calanques National Park. For a peaceful, beginner-friendly paddle, go with the first stand-up paddle tour. If you want a more active exploration that includes marine wildlife and iconic coves, the sea kayaking trip is ideal. And for those eager to learn proper paddling techniques while soaking up the scenery, the educational paddle experience offers excellent value.
No matter which tour you choose, you’re guaranteed to see a side of Cassis most visitors miss—so book early, dress for sun and sea, and get ready for a memorable adventure on the water.