Île Maïre
A sublime island escape near Marseille, offering hidden coves, small beaches, and breathtaking views. Perfect for disconnecting.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid crowds & chaos
Île Maïre
Best Time
Avoid crowds & chaos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sublime island escape near Marseille, offering hidden coves, small beaches, and breathtaking views. Perfect for disconnecting.
"A timeless place! Sublime! The end of the world!"
🚗 Beat the Parking Chaos
Visit off-season or early to avoid the 'anarchy' of badly parked cars and enjoy the island's magic. :car:
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Park centrally or at the entrance and explore the island's beauty by walking to truly appreciate its charm. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Island's Coves
Various points around the island
Discover hidden coves and small beaches offering pristine waters and a tranquil escape from the mainland bustle.

Views from Cap Croisette
Cap Croisette
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Île Maïre and the surrounding turquoise waters from this scenic viewpoint.

Island Mayor's Path
Path starting from the village
A scenic walk connecting the port to the island's higher points, offering diverse perspectives of the landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Île Maïre
Getting to Île Maïre
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Ile Ste Marie
🚗 Beat the Parking Chaos
Visit off-season or early to avoid the 'anarchy' of badly parked cars and enjoy the island's magic. :car:
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Park centrally or at the entrance and explore the island's beauty by walking to truly appreciate its charm. :athletic_shoe:
♻️ Respect the Environment
Use the provided trash cans to keep this beautiful place clean for everyone. :recycle:
🚌 Utilize Public Transport
RTM bus 20 is a convenient way to reach the island, especially if you want to avoid parking hassles. :bus:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Beat the Parking Chaos
Visit off-season or early to avoid the 'anarchy' of badly parked cars and enjoy the island's magic. :car:
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Park centrally or at the entrance and explore the island's beauty by walking to truly appreciate its charm. :athletic_shoe:
♻️ Respect the Environment
Use the provided trash cans to keep this beautiful place clean for everyone. :recycle:
🚌 Utilize Public Transport
RTM bus 20 is a convenient way to reach the island, especially if you want to avoid parking hassles. :bus:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Île Maïre is lauded as a 'timeless place' and 'sublime,' offering a beautiful escape with its coves and beaches. Visitors appreciate its natural beauty and the opportunity to disconnect. However, the experience can be marred by chaotic parking and crowds during high season, leading some to recommend visiting off-season or early.
"A timeless place! Sublime! The end of the world! ☀😍
You can see all my adventures on my social media!
Instagram: Rungiov_marseille"
Rungiov
"Island opposite the Goudes district in the 8th arrondissement, RTM bus 20 goes there"
Bernard Morelli
"Magnificent island at the end of the world. Visible from Cap Croisette after the village of Goudes or the Calanque de Callelongue. To have..."
Karim SAARI
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Île Maïre is by taking the RTM bus 20, which serves the Goudes district. From there, you can access the island. Be aware that parking can be challenging, especially during peak season.
While you can drive towards the Goudes area, parking on Île Maïre itself can be extremely difficult and chaotic during high season. Many visitors opt to park and walk.
For a more relaxed experience, consider using public transport like the RTM bus 20. Walking from the village entrance or central parking is also highly recommended to fully enjoy the island.
Currently, there are no direct ferry services mentioned for Île Maïre. Access is primarily via land routes and local transport.
From the Goudes, Île Maïre is typically reached by foot, offering a scenic walk. The island is visible from nearby viewpoints like Cap Croisette.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no specific entry tickets required to visit Île Maïre. It's an accessible natural area, though parking might have associated costs or restrictions.
Île Maïre is a natural island and is generally accessible at all times. However, access to certain paths or facilities might be limited by daylight or local regulations.
No, there is no entrance fee to access Île Maïre. It's a public area for exploration and enjoyment.
Yes, Île Maïre can be visited year-round. However, the experience can vary significantly between high season (crowded) and off-season (more peaceful).
The main restriction often encountered is related to parking and vehicle access during busy periods. It's advisable to be mindful of local rules and environmental preservation.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors enjoy exploring the island's coves, small beaches, and scenic walking paths. The views from Cap Croisette are also a major highlight.
Yes, the island features small beaches and coves with clear waters, making it a pleasant spot for swimming, especially outside of peak times.
There are walking paths that allow you to explore the island, including routes from the village entrance and higher vantage points like the Island Mayor's Path.
While not a primary wildlife destination, the natural setting offers opportunities to observe local flora and fauna in a coastal environment.
Bring comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, water, and snacks. A camera is also recommended to capture the beautiful scenery.
📸 📸 Photography
The coves, the coastline, and panoramic views from Cap Croisette offer stunning photographic opportunities. The island's natural beauty is very photogenic.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone over Île Maïre.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a zoom lens can be useful for capturing details. A polarizing filter can enhance the blues of the sea and sky.
The unique rock formations, the small beaches, and the overall rugged coastline are iconic elements to capture. The views towards Turtle Island are also notable.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy by the sea, making the most of the island's scenic beauty. The relatively short walking distances on the main paths make it manageable for families with young children. Emphasize the importance of leaving no trace and using the provided trash cans to teach kids about environmental responsibility.
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
Be sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring adequate water, especially if you plan to explore extensively. The best times to visit for hikers are during the cooler months or early mornings to avoid the heat and enjoy the tranquility. The island's natural beauty, with its clear waters and rugged terrain, provides ample opportunities for photography and quiet contemplation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Île Maïre: Transport and Access
To truly enjoy the island's tranquility, it's highly recommended to explore Île Maïre on foot. Many visitors suggest parking centrally or at the village entrance and then embarking on a walk. This approach not only helps avoid the parking stress but also allows for a more immersive experience of the island's natural beauty. Routes can range from leisurely strolls along the coast to more invigorating hikes up to higher vantage points, offering diverse perspectives of the landscape and the surrounding sea.
For those seeking a more serene visit, timing is key. Visiting during the off-season or opting for early mornings can significantly enhance the experience by minimizing crowds and the associated logistical issues. This allows for a more peaceful appreciation of the island's coves, small beaches, and the overall 'end of the world' feeling that many visitors cherish.
The Natural Allure of Île Maïre
The island's landscape is best appreciated through exploration. Walking paths wind through the terrain, leading to various points of interest. A notable route is the Island Mayor's Path, which connects the port area to higher elevations, providing stunning panoramic views. The island is also visible from nearby viewpoints like Cap Croisette, offering a different perspective of its rugged coastline and its proximity to the mainland.
Visitors are encouraged to respect the environment during their visit. The presence of trash cans serves as a reminder to keep the island clean, preserving its natural charm for everyone. By utilizing these facilities, visitors contribute to maintaining the pristine condition of this beautiful natural area, ensuring it remains a delightful destination for future explorers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit