Club de la Mer runs guided sea kayaking and stand-up paddle outings from the Base de l'Aigle Nautique at 50 boulevard Frank Pilatte in Nice, on the French Riviera. The main outing follows the coastline from the Nice base past Mont Boron towards the bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer, a stretch known for rocky shores, clear water and views back towards the city and the hills behind. The paddle lasts about two hours and includes a swim stop, which makes it a relaxed but active way to see the coast from the water.
The activity is rated easy. Participants do not need previous kayaking experience, but swimming ability is required and reasonable general fitness helps with about two hours of paddling. Children aged 6 and up can take part with an adult, and visitors can choose single or double kayaks. Reservation in advance is required. The club is open from 1 January to 31 December 2026, Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 to 18:00.
Visitors bring a swimsuit, a towel, sun protection and water shoes. Kayaks, paddles and safety equipment are supplied, and the outing is instructor-supervised. Club de la Mer is listed as using certified kayak instructors and English is spoken, which helps international visitors. The instructors give a briefing on paddling technique, how to stay together as a group and what to do if a kayak capsizes. The group stays close to the shore and the instructors monitor sea conditions, wind and boat traffic; if conditions deteriorate, the route is shortened or the outing is cancelled.
The sea is usually calmest in the morning, and the warmest swimming months are May to October, though the club operates year-round. Strong wind or swell can lead to rescheduling, so visitors should keep some flexibility. Contact details are on kayaknice.com and by phone on +33 7 88 47 71 16, where current prices and cancellation terms can be confirmed.
| Duration | About 2 hours with a swim stop |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | easy |
| Season | Year-round (open 1 January to 31 December 2026, Tuesday to Saturday 9:30-18:00) |
| Address | Club de la Mer, Base de l'Aigle Nautique, 50 boulevard Frank Pilatte, 06300 Nice, France |
Activity facts
- Where
- Nice coastline between Mont Boron and the bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer
Equipment
Swimsuit, towel, sun protection, water shoes; instructor-supervised, single or double kayaks. Ages 6 and up with an adult, swimming ability required, reservation in advance
Location
Club de la Mer, Base de l'Aigle Nautique, 50 boulevard Frank Pilatte, 06300 Nice, France
43.6925, 7.2908 View on map
Highlights
- Coastal paddle from Nice past Mont Boron towards the bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer
- About two hours on the water with a swim stop
- Single or double kayaks, with children from age 6 accompanied by an adult
- Certified instructors, with English spoken
- Open year-round, Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 to 18:00
Tips for visiting
- Reserve in advance, since the club works by reservation only
- Bring sun protection, a towel and water shoes
- Pick a morning slot for calmer water
- Take a double kayak when paddling with a child
- Check the weather policy, as wind can move or cancel an outing
- Use a waterproof pouch for a phone and ask the instructor before taking photos
When to visit
May to October is best for warm water and swimming. Mornings are usually calmer than afternoons.
Accessibility
Launching involves steps and a shoreline entry, and paddling needs upper-body strength, so the outing is not well suited to wheelchair users. Visitors with mobility needs should ask the club whether support is possible.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
Do I need kayaking experience?
No. The outing is instructor-supervised and suited to beginners, though swimming ability is required.
Can children join?
Yes, from age 6 when accompanied by an adult, typically in a double kayak.
How long does the outing last?
About two hours, including a swim stop.
When is the club open?
From 1 January to 31 December 2026, Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 to 18:00, by reservation.