La Guérite: How to Do It Best

There are beach club lunches on the Riviera and then there's La Guérite.

Located on Île Sainte-Marguerite just off Cannes, La Guérite has become one of the French Riviera's most iconic long lunch destinations and the best way to experience it is absolutely by boat.

Start with a Boat Day Around the Cannes Islands

The ideal La Guérite day starts with a private boat charter from Cannes, Antibes or Monaco.

Spend the morning exploring the crystal clear water around the Cannes Islands, swimming, snorkelling and stopping in hidden coves before heading over to the restaurant.

The water around the islands is some of the clearest on the Riviera and it's one of the best boating areas in the South of France.

Arrive by Tender

The arrival is part of the experience.

Most guests anchor offshore before being transferred to the restaurant by private tender which immediately sets the tone for the afternoon.

Book the Late Sitting

Always do the later lunch sitting if possible.

That's when the atmosphere properly builds and La Guérite starts becoming the lively, music filled lunch everyone comes for.

If you want to be part of the party atmosphere, ask for a table in the main central area near the music and larger groups.

If you want something more relaxed, request one of the separated terrace tables further away from the centre of the restaurant.

Expect a Long Lunch

Nobody rushes lunch at La Guérite.

Order seafood for the table, plenty of rosé and settle in for several hours because this is very much an all afternoon experience.

The energy gradually builds throughout the day with music, dancing and larger groups arriving later into the afternoon.

Finish with Sunset Cruising

After lunch, head back to the boat and spend the final part of the charter slowly cruising the coastline at sunset.

It's one of the best full day Riviera itineraries during summer and easily one of the most iconic boat lunch experiences in the South of France.