The town of Juan-les-Pins is located between Cannes and Nice in the French department of Alpes-Maritimes. Its position on the Gulf of Antibes, at the heart of the French Riviera, makes it an idyllic place for unique and unforgettable vacations. Its beaches and privileged natural surroundings have made it a must-visit destination for the most discerning visitors since it became fashionable more than a century ago. What are the 10 best outdoor activities in Juan-les-Pins?
Top 10 outdoor activities to do in Juan-les-Pins
Spend a Stylish Day at the Beach
The coastline of Juan-les-Pins stretches along the Gulf of Juan to Cannes and offers countless sandy beaches and coves for a perfect beach day. Relax at the popular Plage de la Gallice or choose the exclusive atmosphere of the Pirates Beach Club, a private club with an excellent restaurant. Grab your sunglasses and enjoy this unparalleled resort.
Enjoy the Best Jazz in the Shade of Pine Trees
Every year, during the first two weeks of July, the Jazz à Juan festival takes place in the idyllic setting of the Pinède Garden, covered with pine trees by the sea. Feel the sea breeze while listening to some of the great musicians who have visited this festival since the 1960s. Artists like Miles Davis, Ray Charles, and Ella Fitzgerald have performed here. Gospel, jazz, be-bop, or Latin and African music are just a few of the repertoires you can enjoy.
Walk the Coastal Path
Start from Juan-les-Pins and follow the coastline of Cap d'Antibes along this beautiful path that blends with the sea, where you can practically feel the foam of the waves crashing against the cliffs. Discover small coves and be charmed by the Mediterranean vegetation amidst impressive villas. Don’t miss the Château de la Croë, an impressive manor rented by the Duke and Duchess of Windsor after King Edward VIII’s abdication. Some parts of the visit can also be done by bike.
Ride a Motorized Surfboard
Literally fly above the water. Hop on an electric surfboard and enjoy this summer sport. You can rent an electric surfboard and even take surf lessons on many beaches in Juan-les-Pins. Surf with your family or friends, and you're guaranteed to have fun and laughter..
Visit the Botanical Garden of Villa Thuret
Less than 2 kilometers from the city center, this beautiful botanical garden, built in the 19th century by botanist Gustave Thuret, is a green oasis in the middle of the Antibes peninsula. Don't miss its more than 1,600 species from 5 continents, including collections of conifers, palm trees, and Mediterranean trees and shrubs.
Sail on the French Riviera
You can't leave the French Riviera without spending a day sailing its golden waters. Rent a boat at Porte Gallice and take a trip along the Gulf of Juan to Cannes while enjoying an aperitif at sea and cooling off in the warm waters of the Mediterranean.
Ice Skate by the Sea
Enjoy a beautiful sea view at Cap d'Antibes while having fun gliding on the ice rink set up at Pinède Gould starting in December. A magical place where, in good weather, you can enjoy the sea in the morning and become an expert ice skater in the afternoon.
Shop at the Flea Markets
Nothing beats a stroll through the colorful stalls of a street market by the Mediterranean on a summer day. Juan-les-Pins offers several options where you can find an unexpected treasure or a real bargain. Every Sunday between May and September, from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, you can enjoy the Pinède Flea Market. And if you want to cool off and escape the heat, don’t miss the evening market on the Promenade du Soleil in July and August. Open from 6:30 PM to midnight, you'll find all sorts of crafts, jewelry, fashion, and art.
Excursion to Sainte-Marguerite Island
Sainte-Marguerite Island, located off the coast of Cannes, is the largest of the Lérins Islands. Its fortress once housed the famous Man in the Iron Mask. It is a beautiful island that you can reach by ferry. A perfect option for a day trip and a picnic while imagining who the mysterious figure was whom Louis XIV ordered to hide his face.
