Nice isn’t just about lounging on beaches or wandering along the Promenade des Anglais. Its crystalline waters, rocky coves, and scenic coastline make it an ideal place for canoe and kayak adventures. We’re especially fond of the Stand-Up Paddle & Snorkeling with a local guide because it combines learning, active fun, and local flavor—plus the chance to enjoy French wines and snacks by a secluded cove. The second option, Paddle and electric bike activity in Villefranche, offers a broader exploration of the Riviera’s highlights, blending cycling with paddling for a full-day immersion. Both tours promise memorable moments, but they suit different types of travelers depending on your interests and time.
Below, you’ll find a quick overview of each experience, then a detailed look at what makes each stand out, including practical tips and insights to help you decide the best fit for your trip.
1. Stand-Up Paddle & Snorkeling with local Guide
This half-day guided tour is perfect if you want to master the art of stand-up paddleboarding, explore the calm waters off Nice, and enjoy a relaxed picnic with local French wines. Over more than two hours of paddle time, you learn the basics with full instruction, making it accessible even for complete beginners. The tour takes you along the beautiful coastline of Villefranche, renowned for its clear waters and rocky coves. After paddling, you’ll stop at a secluded cove for a picnic featuring delicious snacks and local wines—an authentic taste of the region.
What sets this tour apart is its small-group size (max 8 people), ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. The reviews highlight the friendly guides like Carmela, who are praised for their patience and knowledge, making it a friendly environment for newcomers. Many guests appreciate the balance of activity and relaxation, especially the inclusion of snorkeling and the stunning scenery. The evening and sunset departures allow you to enjoy spectacular views and cooler temperatures, perfect for unwinding after a busy day.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking to try paddleboarding with expert guidance, enjoy local foods, and experience the coastline from the water, this guided SUP adventure offers excellent value and authentic experiences.
2. Paddle and electric bike activity in Villefranche
For around $96, this combined electric bike and paddle tour explores the Riviera’s most scenic spots over approximately 4 hours. The journey begins with a 30-minute ride along the Promenade des Anglais, taking in one of the most famous seaside promenades in France. You’ll then visit Port Lympia, where the fishing boats and colorful harbor give a charming local touch. Next, you’ll paddle into Villefranche-sur-Mer, paddling for about 90 minutes, with snorkeling gear included for a splash around at your leisure. The tour concludes with a visit to St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, a stunning peninsula known for its villas and lush scenery.
This tour is ideal for those who want a full Riviera experience in one outing—seeing iconic locations while enjoying a mix of cycling and paddling. The reviews praise it as an “amazing tour” that covers “the whole of the French Riviera,” making it perfect for travelers short on time but eager to see a lot. The admission to the paddle and bike sites is included, and the snorkeling equipment ensures you can cool off and explore underwater.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a comprehensive day of exploration, combining biking and paddling, this tour offers good value and an active way to see Nice’s surroundings.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two excellent options, consider your interests and physical comfort levels. If you’re eager to get your feet wet with stand-up paddleboarding, enjoy a relaxed pace, and savor local wines, the Stand-Up Paddle & Snorkeling with a local guide is your best bet. On the other hand, if you want a more comprehensive Riviera experience, covering multiple sites and combining cycling with paddling, then the Paddle and electric bike activity in Villefranche provides a full-day adventure.
Think about your fitness level—both tours involve water activities, but the paddleboarding tour is more focused on water skills, while the hybrid tour combines cycling with paddling. Budget-wise, the electric bike tour is slightly less expensive, but the paddle and snorkeling trip offers more personalized guidance and a scenic sea adventure. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak summer months when these tours fill quickly.
Final Thoughts
Nice offers a range of canoe and kayak experiences that suit different travelers. For a laid-back, scenic paddle with a chance to snorkel and sample local wines, the Stand-Up Paddle & Snorkeling with a local guide is hard to beat. If you want to combine land and sea exploration, seeing iconic Riviera sights by bike and paddle, then the Paddle and electric bike activity in Villefranche provides a full-day adventure.
Both tours showcase the best of Nice’s coastline and waters, but choosing depends on whether you prefer a gentle paddle or a multisport exploration. Whichever you pick, booking in advance will secure your spot for these popular experiences. Now, all that’s left is to suit up and enjoy the beautiful Mediterranean from the water.
