Île Saint-Honorat
A serene island monastery escape off the coast of Cannes, offering ancient history, peaceful vineyards, and tranquil beaches.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Île Saint-Honorat
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene island monastery escape off the coast of Cannes, offering ancient history, peaceful vineyards, and tranquil beaches.
"This place is a short cruise trip from Cannes. Boats start leaving from 10 am in morning and last from the island is around 430 pm, never miss it."
🚢 Ferry Schedules
Check the last ferry back to Cannes! Don't miss it.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the island.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lérins Abbey
Monastery complex
Explore the ancient fortified monastery, a haven of peace and history.

Vineyards & Wine Tasting
Various vineyards
Sample and buy exquisite wines produced by the monks.
Secluded Beaches
Island coastline
Discover quiet coves and crystal-clear waters for a serene dip.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Island Escape: Ferry & Timing
Monastic Serenity & Wine
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Ferry Schedules
Check the last ferry back to Cannes! Don't miss it.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the island.
🍷 Monastic Wines
Taste and buy the monks' famous wines and liqueurs.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal with stunning sea views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Ferry Schedules
Check the last ferry back to Cannes! Don't miss it.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the island.
🍷 Monastic Wines
Taste and buy the monks' famous wines and liqueurs.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal with stunning sea views.
🤫 Respect the Silence
It's a working monastery, so keep noise levels down.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Île Saint-Honorat's tranquil atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and the unique experience of visiting a working monastery. Many prefer it over the larger Sainte-Marguerite island for its peacefulness and fewer crowds. Some note that it can be explored in a few hours, rather than a full day, depending on your pace.
"Beautiful, quiet, secluded island with a monastery and vineyards. Like l’île Sainte-Marguerite, it is only accessible by ferry. There is a lovely, short walk around the island, and a nice restaurant overlooking the water."
Audrey
"Such a beautiful island! I definitely prefer this island to the bigger one. There are a lot less people and have quite a few cute quiet beaches. It takes a couple of hours to walk around the whole island but I definitely think you can make a whole day of it if you relax by the beach and then go sightseeing."
Janet Cunningham
"This place is a short cruise trip from Cannes. Boats start leaving from 10 am in morning and last from the island is around 430 pm, never miss it. You can spend a whole day exploring this small but beautiful island. There are multiple small beaches to swim and sun bathe. One of the destination of French Riviera."
Jasdeep Singh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The only way to reach Île Saint-Honorat is by ferry from Cannes. Boats depart regularly from the port. The journey is short, about 15-20 minutes.
It's advisable to check the ferry schedule in advance, especially for the last return trip.Ferries typically start running around 10 am, with departures every hour or so. The last ferry back to Cannes is usually around 4:30 pm.
It's crucial to confirm these times on the day of your visit as they can vary seasonally.Ferry tickets are generally considered good value for money.
Prices can vary slightly, but expect to pay around €15-€20 for a round trip per person. It's best to inquire at the Cannes port for the most current pricing.No, Île Saint-Honorat is a car-free island. Access is exclusively by ferry from Cannes.
The island is small enough to explore on foot. There are no public transport options on Île Saint-Honorat itself.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While you can often buy ferry tickets on the day at the port, booking in advance might be wise during peak season to secure your spot.
There's no separate entry ticket for the island itself, but access to the monastery may have specific visiting hours or donation requests.The island is generally accessible during daylight hours, coinciding with the ferry schedule.
The monastery has its own specific visiting hours, and it's recommended to check their official website or inquire locally for the most accurate times, especially if you wish to attend Mass.While the island itself is free to explore, there might be a small fee or a request for donations to enter certain parts of the monastery or its museum.
Attending Mass is usually free but a donation is appreciated.Yes, visitors are welcome to explore parts of the monastery and its grounds.
It's a working religious site, so visitors are expected to be respectful of the monks' contemplative lifestyle.The main restriction is respecting the monastic community and maintaining a peaceful atmosphere.
Dress modestly when visiting the monastery.🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the historic monastery, wander through the vineyards, enjoy the quiet beaches, and sample the monks' wine.
Many visitors enjoy a leisurely walk around the island.Absolutely! It's a perfect half-day or full-day trip from Cannes.
You can spend a few hours exploring or relax on the beaches for a full day.Yes, the island has several small, quiet beaches and coves perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
They offer a more secluded experience compared to mainland beaches.Yes, the waters around the island are clear and inviting for swimming.
Many find the beaches here to be quite charming and less crowded.Walking is the best way to explore Île Saint-Honorat.
The island is relatively small, and walking allows you to discover its hidden coves and enjoy the serene atmosphere at your own pace.🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant on the island that offers lovely views overlooking the water.
It's a great spot to enjoy a meal after exploring.The restaurant typically serves Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.
You can also find products made by the monks, such as wine and olive oil, for sale.Yes, bringing a picnic is a popular option.
Many visitors enjoy finding a picturesque spot to eat their packed lunches with a view of the Mediterranean Sea.The monks' wine and liqueurs are available for purchase directly from the monastery's shop on the island.
Dining at the island's restaurant can be moderately priced. Bringing a picnic is a more budget-friendly option.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the ancient monastery walls, the serene vineyards, and the picturesque harbor.
The coastline offers beautiful views of the Mediterranean.Yes, the island's natural beauty, historical architecture, and tranquil atmosphere make it a photographer's delight.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, soft lighting for your photos.
Photography inside the active monastic areas may be restricted. Always check for signage or ask permission.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes and the monastery, while a telephoto can capture details.
However, a smartphone is perfectly adequate for most visitors.For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🧘♀️ Spiritual Seekers & Peace Lovers
🍷 Wine Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Monastic Life of Île Saint-Honorat
Beyond their spiritual duties, the monks are renowned for their artisanal products. They cultivate vineyards and produce exceptional wines and liqueurs, which are sold to visitors. This tradition of self-sufficiency has been a cornerstone of monastic life for centuries. Purchasing these products is a way to support the abbey and take a piece of its unique heritage home with you.
Exploring the Island's Natural Beauty
While the monastery is a primary draw, the island's secluded beaches offer a more relaxed experience. These quiet spots are perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, or simply enjoying the serene coastal scenery. Unlike the more crowded beaches on the mainland, Île Saint-Honorat provides a sense of discovery and peaceful seclusion.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit