Located just next to Cannes, Théoule-sur-Mer is a coastal village nestled against the Estérel mountains. Its main feature is the visual contrast between the red volcanic rocks of the Estérel and the deep blue of the Mediterranean Sea. It is a destination for those seeking wild coves, hiking trails with sea views, and water sports.
Top 3 experiences
Hike in the Pointe de l'Aiguille park. This trail offers breathtaking views of the sea and gives you an understanding of the massif's red rock landscape.
Explore the calanques by kayak or paddleboard. This is the most direct way to access the small, isolated coves that are difficult to reach on foot.
Discover the local flora and fauna with the underwater trail. Put on a mask and snorkel to follow a marked underwater trail and observe the protected marine life.
Things to do in Théoule-sur-Mer
To help you plan your stay, here are the various activities available, explained in detail.
Where can you discover local traditions?
Local life is mainly expressed through Provençal markets. Here you will find regional products:
Olive oil, tapenade, anchoïade;
Seasonal fruits and vegetables;
Locally caught fish.
The markets are held on Thursday and Sunday mornings in the center of Théoule, and on Tuesday and Friday mornings at the port of La Rague.
Where can you go for a walk to admire the scenery?
The Estérel Massif
The Estérel Massif is an ancient volcanic mountain range. Its rock, rhyolite, gives it its characteristic red color.
The Pointe de l'Aiguille Departmental Park
This protected park is the main place for hiking. The “Balcons d'Azur” loop is a route of about 1.5 hours that offers the most beautiful views of the coastline. The well-marked trail climbs through Mediterranean vegetation and runs along the cliffs, giving the impression of walking suspended above the water.
The Corniche d'Or
This legendary road (DN98) winds between Théoule-sur-Mer and Saint-Raphaël, following the Estérel coastline. Driving along it offers magnificent views, with numerous lookout points to stop at. It also serves as a starting point for other hikes in the massif, such as the one leading to the Pic du Cap Roux.
The coastal path
For a walk closer to the water, this path runs along the coast, connecting several beaches and coves. It allows you to discover the coastline on foot, alternating between developed paths and wilder trails. It's a good option for combining walking and swimming.
What excursions can you do on the water?
The seabed around Théoule is protected, particularly around the Pointe de l'Aiguille.
The underwater discovery trail
Located in the cove of Aiguille beach, this trail is designed to be explored with simple snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel). Underwater, buoys are installed with submerged panels that explain the ecosystems you are observing:
Posidonia seagrass beds,
Different types of rocks and local fish such as sars and girelles.
Access is free of charge. All you need to do is bring your own equipment. The best time to visit is from June to September, when the water is warmer.
Sea kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding
Renting a kayak or paddleboard is a very popular way to explore the coastline at your own pace. Rentals are available on the main beaches and at Port de la Rague. This allows you to paddle along the red cliffs, enter small sea caves, and stop at coves that are inaccessible from land.
Where to swim in Théoule-sur-Mer?
Théoule-sur-Mer is known for its many small coves rather than long sandy beaches.
Accessible beaches
Plage de l'Aiguille and Plage de la Figueirette are the largest sandy and pebble beaches, equipped with restaurants and sunbed rentals. Closer to the center, the beaches of Château, Vallon de l'Autel, and Petite Fontaine are smaller, family-friendly coves. We also really like Plage du Pêcheur.
Exploring the calanques
Calanques are rocky coves. Those of Maubois, Saint-Barthélemy, and Calanque des Grottes are examples of wilder places. They can be difficult to access on foot. The best way to discover them is therefore by sea, by renting a boat.
What to visit to discover the heritage and culture?
Théoule's heritage is more linked to its history as a holiday resort and its architecture than to ancient monuments.
The village and marinas
The center of Théoule is organized around its marina. Here you will find shops and restaurants. The Port de la Rague, a little further west, is also a pleasant place to stroll. A market is held several days a week during the summer season, where you can buy local products.
The castle of Théoule-sur-Mer
This castle-like building is a former 17th-century soap factory, now privately owned. It can be seen from the sea and the nearby beach, but is not open to visitors except for private events or receptions.
The Bubble Palace
This famous round house, formerly owned by fashion designer Pierre Cardin, is an architectural curiosity visible from the road. It is a private residence that is not open to regular visitors. Guided tours are sometimes organized on an exceptional basis, but they must be booked well in advance and are very limited.
The statue of Our Lady of Africa
Located on a hilltop in the mountains, this statue is a replica of the one in Algiers. The site offers a view of the village and the sea.
What are the best attractions?
The best attractions in Théoule are concentrated between the sea and the mountains. The Château de Théoule, a former 18th-century soap factory, dominates the bay with its red stones. Next, visit the fine sandy beaches in the town center, which are ideal for swimming. The Pointe de l'Aiguille nature park is a must-see with its wild coves and coastal paths. A stroll along the port of Théoule allows you to admire the boats and local architecture. These sites make this town one of the most authentic destinations on the French Riviera.
What water sports are available?
Water sports transform Théoule into a Mediterranean playground. You can rent kayaks or paddleboards to explore the hidden coves along the coast. Thrill seekers can opt for water skiing or windsurfing. Boat or catamaran excursions take you to discover the Estérel calanques from the sea. Diving reveals an exceptional seabed with unspoiled biodiversity.
How to get to Théoule-sur-Mer?
By car: Théoule is accessible via the A8 motorway (Mandelieu-la-Napoule exit) and then by following the coast. The Corniche d'Or road (DN98) from Saint-Raphaël is a slower but very scenic alternative.
By train: Théoule-sur-Mer station is served by the TER regional express train, which connects Cannes, Nice, and Saint-Raphaël. This is a convenient way to avoid parking difficulties in summer.
By bus: The “Palm Bus” network in the Cannes metropolitan area serves the town, notably with line 22, which runs along the coast.
By plane: Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE) is the closest, about a 45-minute drive away.
Villages and nature in the surrounding area
A few kilometers from Théoule, there are other sites to discover. The rest of the Estérel massif offers dozens of hiking and mountain biking trails. The village of Mandelieu-la-Napoule, just next door, is known for its medieval castle on the waterfront and its Mimosa Festival in winter. For a more urban and glamorous atmosphere, Cannes, its Croisette, and its old Suquet district are less than a 20-minute drive away. From Cannes, it is also possible to take a boat to visit the Lérins Islands.