Kayaking Cap d'Antibes to Billionaires' Bay: Complete Guide
The easiest way is to launch from Crouton beach on the Juan-les-Pins side, where the water is often calm, and follow the Cap d'Antibes coastline to Billionaires' Bay (the Anse de l'Argent Faux, below Villa Eilenroc). Allow half a day including snorkeling stops, and go with a guide if you can: conditions change fast off the tip of the cape.
From the road, Cap d'Antibes is a string of walls and gates. From a kayak, it's a jagged limestone coast of turquoise coves and Posidonia seagrass meadows. Here's how to plan the trip.
Where to Launch: Crouton Beach
Crouton beach sits at the start of boulevard du Maréchal-Juin, just past Port Gallice, where Juan-les-Pins meets Cap d'Antibes. It's right next to the little port of Le Crouton, on the cape's western side. Government documents on the Natura 2000 site even point out that, thanks to its layout and calm waters, the area is very popular with kayakers.
Getting there: from Juan-les-Pins station or central Antibes, Le Crouton can be reached by bike or by bus . Seafront parking is limited in summer: come early or leave the car behind. To plan your stay on the Juan-les-Pins side, see our article Juan-les-Pins: practical info.
The Route Along the Cape
Heading south from Le Crouton, you follow a rocky shore dotted with small coves and estates tucked among the pines. Paddling is easy as long as you stay in the shelter of the coast; the closer you get to the southern tip of the cape, the choppier the sea can get when the wind blows.
Along the way, you'll come across:
- rocky coves reachable only by sea or by the coastal path, like the ones the tourist office describes along the Tire-Poil trail;
- flat rocks perfect for a break and, on a guided trip, for jumping;
- Posidonia seagrass meadows visible through the clear water, which give the sea its dark-green and turquoise hues.
For the walking route along the same coast, see our guide to the Cap d'Antibes coastal path.
Billionaires' Bay
"Billionaires' Bay" is the nickname given to the Anse de l'Argent Faux and its surroundings, below Villa Eilenroc. Long accessible only by sea, its small beach of large pebbles has been linked to the coastal path by a footpath since June 2011.
From the water, the cove reveals itself in full: pale cliffs, pine trees and crystal-clear water on a calm day.
Good to know in 2026: cliff stabilization work below Villa Eilenroc has led to the closure of part of the path and swimming restrictions along a stretch of the Anse de l'Argent Faux . Follow the signs on site.
Snorkeling: What You'll See Underwater
The bay and Cap d'Antibes are part of the "Baie et cap d'Antibes – îles de Lérins" Natura 2000 site, which covers about 13,600 hectares, 98% of it at sea. Posidonia seagrass is a priority habitat here: this marine plant (not a seaweed) produces oxygen, shelters fish and fry, and protects beaches from erosion.
With a mask and snorkel, you'll typically spot small rock fish and sea urchins on the rocky seabed, with Posidonia meadows around the edges [espèces observables selon la saison]. A few rules:
- don't touch the wildlife and don't take anything;
- don't stand on the seagrass or on sea urchins;
- sunscreen: apply it well before swimming, or cover up with a rash guard.
Safety and Regulations: What You Need to Know
The 300-Meter Rule
In France, kayaks classed as "beach craft" must not go more than 300 meters from a shelter and may only be used in daylight. Beyond that, you need a sea-rated kayak and the matching safety gear. If you're renting, ask about the kayak's category and the permitted zone .
Boats and Channels
In summer, the coast is busy with boats. Stay close to shore, cross buoyed channels quickly and at right angles, and wear a life vest and bright colors.
The Weather
The tip of the cape is exposed. Check the marine forecast before you go, head out in the morning when the wind is often lighter, and turn back if you see whitecaps. To choose the best time of year, read When to go kayaking on the French Riviera.
Jumping From the Rocks
It's one of the great joys of the cape — and one of its main risks. Never jump without checking the depth first, and always go with supervision if you can.
Rental or Guided Tour?
- Rental: ideal for a short paddle near Crouton beach, within the 300-meter strip, on a calm day.
- Guided tour: recommended if you want to reach Billionaires' Bay, enjoy the best snorkeling spots and jump safely. The guide adapts the route to the weather and knows the restricted zones.
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Frequently asked questions
Can you kayak to Billionaires' Bay?
Yes — it's one of the most beautiful ways to get there, following Cap d'Antibes from Crouton beach. Check for temporary restrictions linked to the work below Villa Eilenroc.
Do you need to be able to swim to kayak at Cap d'Antibes?
Yes, you need to be comfortable in the water, especially for snorkeling. Always wear a buoyancy aid.
What's the best season for kayaking at Cap d'Antibes?
From late spring to early fall, ideally in the morning, when the sea is usually calmer.
Where exactly is Billionaires' Bay?
In the Anse de l'Argent Faux, on the south side of Cap d'Antibes, below Villa Eilenroc. On land, you walk down to it from avenue Mrs L.D. Beaumont along a small path.
Go Kayaking with Azurkay
This is exactly the route of our Cap d'Antibes tour: 4 hours from Crouton beach, along the cape to Billionaires' Bay, with snorkeling breaks and rock jumps of up to 15 m (about 50 ft) for those who want them, always supervised. Our groups never exceed 16 people and are led by state-certified instructors, for €75 per person. Book directly on the Cap d'Antibes Kayak Tour page.
