The French Riviera, or Côte d’Azur, is renowned for its glamour, sunshine, and scenic coastline—but beyond the famous beaches and bustling towns lies a trio of natural wonders that deserve your full attention: Cap d’Antibes, Cap Taillat, and Cap Camarat. Each cape offers a unique, immersive experience of the Mediterranean’s raw beauty and is best explored by boat. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a private escape at sea, discovering these headlands with a private charter is one of the most unforgettable ways to explore the Riviera.
In this guide, we’ll sail through the highlights of each cape, reveal hidden coves and swimming spots, and explain why booking a custom boat trip with companies like BedBoat Charter is the ultimate way to enjoy the South of France.
The magic of the Riviera’s Capes by sea
When you travel by sea, you gain access to a secret world: secluded beaches, dramatic cliffs, and marine sanctuaries unreachable by land. The trio of Cap d’Antibes, Cap Taillat, and Cap Camarat offers a perfect mix of wild nature, historical interest, and crystal-clear waters. Exploring them on a boat allows you to see the French Riviera from its most authentic and breathtaking side.
Cap d’Antibes: A luxurious peninsula with hidden corners
Nestled between Nice and Cannes, Cap d’Antibes is an iconic headland known for its luxurious villas, umbrella pines, and turquoise coves.
- Billionaire’s Bay (Baie des Milliardaires) is one of the most beautiful anchor points along the coast, surrounded by private mansions and lush vegetation.
- Secluded spots like Anse de l’Argent Faux and Plage de la Garoupe offer ideal places to relax, swim, and snorkel.
From the water, Cap d’Antibes reveals a hidden side, far from the coastal promenade. A custom boat outing gives you the freedom to explore at your pace, jump in for a swim, or enjoy a glass of rosé with a view. BedBoat Charter often includes this stop on day trips starting from Nice or Cannes.
Cap Taillat: where nature reigns
Near Ramatuelle, south of Saint-Tropez, lies Cap Taillat, a wild, preserved peninsula of striking beauty. Unlike Cap d’Antibes, this cape is all about nature.
- A narrow sandbar connects Cap Taillat to the mainland, bordered by untouched beaches and shallow lagoons.
- The area is protected and part of the Conservatoire du Littoral, offering a pristine environment for marine life and water activities.
Sailing to Cap Taillat offers a rare opportunity to experience the Mediterranean in its most natural state. Dive into clear waters, snorkel among schools of fish, or simply enjoy the silence broken only by the sound of waves. BedBoat Charter includes eco-friendly excursions to this region for those looking to connect with nature.
Cap Camarat: dramatic cliffs and the lighthouse view
Cap Camarat is located near Saint-Tropez and is known for its impressive cliffs and iconic lighthouse—the Phare de Camarat, one of France’s tallest.
- The coastline here is steep and rugged, dotted with small pebble coves perfect for quiet anchorages.
- The sea is exceptionally clear, making it a top snorkeling destination.
Cap Camarat is less accessible than other areas, making it a peaceful and secluded experience. Watching the sun dip behind the lighthouse from your boat is a moment you’ll never forget. BedBoat Charter’s experienced skippers know the best times and places to visit for the most photogenic and peaceful views.
Why charter a boat to explore the three capes?
Choosing a private boat charter unlocks the best way to explore the French Riviera’s secret capes. Here’s why:
- Access to remote coves and hidden beaches unreachable by land.
- Freedom to customize your route, stop for a swim, or enjoy a picnic on deck.
- Privacy and comfort, with onboard amenities and tailored services.
- Guidance from local skippers, who know the coast’s secrets.
With BedBoat Charter, you’re not just booking a boat—you’re booking an experience. Whether for a half-day cruise or a full-day adventure, you’ll enjoy premium services, flexible itineraries, and an authentic way to discover the Mediterranean.
When to visit the three capes by boat
- May to October is the ideal window for sea outings.
- June and September offer the best weather with fewer tourists.
- July and August provide warm seas, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Charters typically last from 4 to 8 hours depending on the route, and many visitors choose to include all three capes in a full-day sailing experience.
Suggested itinerary: The three-Cape adventure
Start your day in Cannes or Saint-Tropez with a luxury boat charter. Head first to Cap d’Antibes for morning swimming and snorkeling, then sail down the coast toward Cap Taillat for a scenic lunch break. Continue south to Cap Camarat for a golden-hour cruise as the sun sets over the Mediterranean.
Optional stops include:
- Lérins Islands (near Cap d’Antibes) for a quick detour.
- Plage de l’Escalet, close to Cap Taillat.
- Pampelonne Beach, near Cap Camarat, for a cocktail or a beach club stop.
Tips for the perfect sailing day
- Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Pack a swimsuit and towel, even if you’re not a swimmer—you might be tempted!
- Use reef-safe products to protect marine biodiversity.
- Bring a waterproof bag for your phone and valuables.
- Listen to your skipper—they know the coast better than anyone.
Conclusion: The hidden riviera awaits
The trio of Cap d’Antibes, Cap Taillat, and Cap Camarat represents the wild, elegant, and authentic sides of the French Riviera. Exploring them by boat reveals another dimension of the Côte d’Azur—one that few travelers experience.
Whether you’re chasing solitude, marine adventure, or postcard-worthy scenery, a sailing trip with BedBoat Charter offers an unbeatable way to connect with these coastal gems. Forget the crowded beaches and busy roads—take to the sea and uncover the Riviera’s most breathtaking corners.