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France is a country that offers plenty of opportunities for water sports enthusiasts. Whether on the sea, lakes, rivers or canals, there’s something for every taste and every level. We reveal 10 must-try water sports to enjoy with family, friends or your other half during a stay by a stretch of salt or fresh water! Find the sport that appeals to you most and get ready for an incredible experience!
Water skiing is an activity that involves gliding across the water on skis while being towed by a motorboat. It is one of the most physically demanding water sports, as it works the leg, arm and back muscles, along with balance and coordination. Water skiing lets you enjoy speed, thrills and the scenery. However, you do need to keep an eye on weather conditions, follow safety rules, and use the right equipment. In France, you can find water-skiing clubs in several regions, such as Nouvelle-Aquitaine, Occitanie and Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur.
A boat trip is a leisure activity that lets you relax, discover varied scenery and get a taste of sailing or motorboat navigation techniques. You can book a trip with family, friends or your partner, depending on the size and type of boat you choose. It can also be enjoyed on any type of water, whether the sea, rivers, streams or canals, and you can even take the helm yourself. In France, boats can be hired in many ports.
Fishing involves catching fish or other aquatic creatures using a hook, line or net. This relaxing activity lets you reconnect with nature, enjoy the calm, and savour the catch of the day. A fishing trip can be done alone or with others, depending on your preferences and skill level. It’s also possible to fish in different aquatic environments, such as the sea, lakes, rivers or ponds. In France, you’ll find fishing spots in every region, such as Brittany, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur or Normandy. Just be sure to follow the regulations in force, along with catch quotas and size limits, which vary by location.
Canoeing and kayaking is a water sport that involves paddling across the water in a light, narrow craft. It’s one of the best activities for staying fit, as it works your cardio, upper body muscles and flexibility. Canoeing and kayaking let you get some exercise while having fun and exploring places that would otherwise be inaccessible. That said, you do need to watch out for currents, obstacles and weirs during your outing. In France, you can go canoeing and kayaking on rivers such as the Dordogne, the Ardèche or the Verdon. You can also enjoy this activity at sea, and lessons are available to help you master the discipline.
Canyoning is a water sport that involves making your way down a narrow watercourse on foot, by swimming, or using climbing and abseiling techniques. Particularly adventurous, this activity calls for stamina, courage and adaptability. Canyoning lets you experience an adrenaline rush, cool off and discover spectacular scenery during a waterside stay. However, you do need to be guided by a professional, who will provide the right equipment, teach you how to practise the discipline safely, and give you a few tips for respecting the environment. Canyoning takes place in mountainous areas, where rivers have carved out impressive gorges. In France, you can go canyoning in the Pyrenees, the Alps or Corsica.
Stand-up paddleboarding involves standing on a long, wide board and propelling yourself with a paddle. It’s a relaxing water sport that works your balance, focus and posture. Stand-up paddleboarding lets you cruise along the water, soak up the sun and take in the view. There are also other types of paddleboard, such as clear paddleboards, which let you admire aquatic species as you glide along. You can practise it on calm, shallow waters, such as the sea, lakes or ponds. The Côte d’Azur, Lake Annecy and the Arcachon Basin are all ideal spots to give it a try.
Windsurfing invites holidaymakers to glide across the water on a board fitted with a sail. A truly dynamic activity, it works your strength, coordination and reflexes. But that’s not all! Windsurfing lets you make the most of the wind, the speed and a few jumps during your waterside holiday. To practise this type of water sport, it’s a good idea to have at least some technical knowledge, or even a few lessons, to keep an eye on weather conditions, and to use suitable equipment. Windsurfing is practised on choppy, windy waters, such as the sea or large lakes. In France, Brittany, Normandy and Occitanie are all great spots for this activity.
Surfing is an activity that involves riding the waves on a board. As well as being an exciting and fun water sport, it works your agility, timing and self-confidence. Surfing lets you feel in harmony with nature, take on the elements and experience intense emotions. However, it’s important to be a strong swimmer, particularly in case of a fall, and to follow safety rules and respect other surfers. Surfing is practised at spots where the waves are suited to riding, such as the sea or the ocean. In France, you can surf along the Atlantic Coast, the Basque Coast or the Opal Coast, among others.
Jet skiing is one of the most thrilling water sports around. It invites you to pilot a motorised craft on the water (a licence is required) or enjoy a ride with a trained instructor. Jet skiing lets you have a blast on the water, taking tight turns and lightning-fast accelerations. To experience this adrenaline rush, head for open, clear waters, such as the sea or large lakes. In France, you can take jet-ski lessons or practise on the Mediterranean, the Channel and the Atlantic.
The last water sport you simply must try during a waterside stay: cruising! You’ll get the chance to travel aboard a luxury ship for several days or weeks, resting, being entertained and visiting a variety of destinations. Cruises offer top-quality services, such as spacious cabins, gourmet restaurants and a wide range of entertainment. Unlike most of the water sports listed above, cruising does require a substantial budget.
There are plenty of water sports to enjoy in France, letting you make the most of the water, whether to relax, get some exercise, or simply be amazed. There’s something for every taste, every age and every budget. All you need to do is choose the one that best suits your interests and abilities. So don’t hesitate to try one of these water sports during your stay at a seaside campsite, you won’t regret it!
