Water temperature and wave height on the beaches of Cannes
๐ Cannes – Overview:
Located in southeastern France, in the Alpes-Maritimes department
Famed for the Cannes Film Festival, luxury lifestyle, and palm-lined boulevards
Features a mix of public and private sandy beaches
The city sits along the calm and scenic Golfe de la Napoule, part of the Mediterranean
๐๏ธ Top Beaches in the Cannes Area:
1. Plage de la Croisette โจ
Located along the iconic Boulevard de la Croisette
A mix of private beach clubs and a few public sections
Fine, soft golden sand
Shallow and calm waters – great for swimming
Top choice for a stylish beach day with nearby cafes and shopping
2. Plage du Midi ๐ด
West of the old port, more laid-back and less expensive
Mix of public and private areas
Beautiful views, good facilities, wide sandy beach
Family-friendly and usually less crowded than La Croisette
3. Plage de la Bocca ๐
Located further west, more local and relaxed
Quieter atmosphere, wide sandy stretch
Ideal for families, casual sunbathers, and locals
Easy access via train or bus
4. Îles de Lérins (Sainte-Marguerite & Saint-Honorat) ๐๏ธ
Short boat ride from Cannes
Crystal-clear water, rocky and pebbly coves
Great for snorkeling, kayaking, and nature walks
Less crowded, more natural than city beaches
๐ Sea & Beach Characteristics in Cannes:
Water type: Salty, calm Mediterranean Sea
Water color: Clear turquoise to deep blue
Wave activity: Very gentle, ideal for swimming
Sand: Soft and golden on mainland beaches; rocky coves on nearby islands
Water clarity: Excellent – great for snorkeling
Marine life: Small fish, sea urchins, clear enough for casual underwater exploration
โ๏ธ Seasonal Beach Experience in Cannes:
Season | Sea Temp | Notes |
---|---|---|
๐ธ Spring | 15–18°C | Chilly water, but sunny and ideal for walks or sunbathing |
โ๏ธ Summer | 21–24.5°C | Perfect swimming weather, beach clubs in full swing |
๐ Autumn | 20–22°C | Warm sea, fewer crowds – very enjoyable |
โ๏ธ Winter | 13–15°C | Water too cold to swim, but great views and weather for walking |
โ Why Visit Cannes Beaches?
โจ Glamorous beach vibe with excellent amenities
๐๏ธ Soft sandy beaches – rare along the rocky French Riviera
๐งญ Easy access to islands and natural coves
๐ 300+ sunny days/year
๐งบ Great mix of luxury and casual beach options
Month | ๐ Avg. Water Temp |
---|---|
โ๏ธ January | 13.5°C |
โ๏ธ February | 13°C |
๐ฑ March | 13.5°C |
๐ธ April | 14.5°C |
๐ผ May | 17.5°C |
โ๏ธ June | 21.5°C |
๐ฅ July | 24°C |
๐ฅ August | 25°C |
๐ค September | 23.5°C |
๐ October | 21°C |
๐ November | 17°C |
โ๏ธ December | 14.5°C |
โ Highlights:
๐โ๏ธ Best swimming months: June to September
โ๏ธ Coldest water: January–March (~13°C) – too cold for most swimmers
๐ฅ Warmest water: August (~25°C) – perfect for all-day swimming
๐ Great shoulder seasons: May & October – warmish water + fewer crowds