Port Guide | France | Worth a Wander
Le Lavandou
Michael States | Editor
Published on 2025-11-23
Congratulations: you've docked at Le Lavandou, the coastal gem of Provence that sounds charmingly like fancy soap but actually delivers something far better-beaches so outrageously blue they'll ruin all other waters for you, forever. Nestled on France's Cote d'Azur with a name derived (depending who you ask) either from the lavender fields that once thrived here or from the quaint Provencal word for laundry washer-because nothing screams glamour quite like clean underwear-Le Lavandou combines postcard prettiness with laid-back charm. Here you'll find plenty of fellow travelers yet still dodge that soul-crushing cruise-ship hordes feeling, though be warned: parking spaces vanish faster than rose at happy hour. Luckily, as savvy voyagers who've brought your accommodations right into port, you've neatly avoided the vehicle headache and can dive straight into more pressing matters: choosing whether your first move should be renting a kayak, lounging at Plage Saint-Clair (the locals' favorite), or wandering the alleys in search of seafood eateries that redefine your relationship with butter and garlic. Welcome to Le Lavandou-now go forth, friends, and vigorously relax.
France has 7 Travel Advisories
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Notes from the Editor
Le Lavandou is known for its beautiful beaches and clear blue waters, offering various water sports. The town is quite popular among tourists but maintains a charming, small-town atmosphere. Visitors should be aware that parking can be limited and may require some planning.
Where do cruise ships dock in Le Lavandou?
Port Name Le Lavandou
Country France
Region Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur
Ship Terminal Port de Le Lavandou
Port Type Tender port
Accessibility The port is located within the town and is easily accessible by foot. It is about a 5-10 minute walk to the main city center.
What's the weather like in Le Lavandou?
Best Season to Visit Summer (June to August)
Climate Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
Weather Notes No significant weather disturbances during summer; warm temperatures expected.
Temperature Range 70F to 85F (21C to 29C)
High Temp 90F
Low Temp 40F
Average Temp 65F
What do I need to know about Le Lavandou?
Language French
Currency Euro (€)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population approximately 5,000
Timezone CET (UTC+1)
How do I get around Le Lavandou?
Public buses, taxis, and bicycle rental are available.
What are The Best Things to do in Le Lavandou?
Discover what you should do while you're in Le Lavandou.
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
Lavender Fields Tour
Various fields around Provence, N/A
Tour picturesque fields uniquely covered in blooming lavender, a quintessential Provence experience.
Distance from Terminal: 30 miles
Fete de la Saint-Pierre (Fishermen's Feast)
Port du Lavandou
Participate in this local summer festival celebrating the fishing tradition with processions and seafood tastings.
Distance from Terminal: 0.1 miles
Dance at Provencal Village Festival
Various villages around Le Lavandou
Discover authentic Provencal culture through lively traditional summer village festivals with music and dancing.
Distance from Terminal: 6 miles
Provencal Market Stroll
Place du Marche, Le Lavandou
Browse regional delicacies and handmade crafts at the colorful weekly market.
Distance from Terminal: 0.4 miles
Painting Workshop en Plein Air
Several locations around Le Lavandou, N/A
Join a painting session outdoors, inspired by Provencal picturesque seascapes or landscapes.
Distance from Terminal: 0.6 miles
Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez Sailing Regatta
Saint-Tropez Harbor
Witness the renowned sailing regatta, drawing classic and modern yachts worldwide each summer.
Distance from Terminal: 20 miles
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Plage du Lavandou
Plage centrale, Le Lavandou
Enjoy swimming or sunbathing on Le Lavandou's main beautiful sandy beach.
Distance from Terminal: 0.2 miles
Snorkeling near Îles d'Hyeres
Departure from Port du Lavandou
Explore colorful marine life and clear Mediterranean waters near the Hyeres Islands.
Distance from Terminal: 3 miles
Hike the Massif des Maures
N/A
Experience scenic summer hiking trails, distinctive pine forests, and spectacular vistas in the Massif des Maures.
Distance from Terminal: 5 miles
Sunset Sailing Experience
Departs from Port du Lavandou
A scenic sailing ride to experience the mesmerizing beauty of a Provencal sunset at sea.
Distance from Terminal: 0.1 miles
Ride the Coastal Cycling Route
Starts Le Lavandou promenade
Participate in cycling along breathtaking coastal paths offering panoramic Mediterranean views.
Distance from Terminal: 0.2 miles
Stand-Up Paddleboarding along La Fossette Beach
La Fossette Beach, Le Lavandou
Enjoy paddleboarding over serene, clear waters of this secluded beach.
Distance from Terminal: 1.5 miles
A Little Extra
Traditional Bouillabaisse Tasting
Chez Laurent, Boulevard de la Plage, Le Lavandou
Sample and savor authentic bouillabaisse, a classic seafood dish originally from this region.
Distance from Terminal: 0.3 miles
Petanque (Boules) Game with Locals
Place Ernest Reyer, Le Lavandou
Enjoy an authentic game of petanque alongside friendly local residents.
Distance from Terminal: 0.5 miles
Private Beach Club Day
Le Club 55, Ramatuelle
Luxuriate in the VIP treatment at a high-end private beach club on Pampelonne Beach.
Distance from Terminal: 22 miles
Overnight Trips
Boat Ride to Porquerolles Island
From Port du Lavandou
A leisurely boat journey to Porquerolles for exploring beaches and trails of the unspoiled island paradise.
Distance from Terminal: 6 miles
Historical and cultural landmarks
Explore Medieval Village at Bormes-les-Mimosas
Village center, Bormes-les-Mimosas
Discover medieval charm and flower-lined streets at nearby picturesque Bormes-les-Mimosas.
Distance from Terminal: 2.5 miles
Abbaye du Thoronet Visit
83340 Le Thoronet
Visit this peaceful 12th-century Cistercian Abbey recognized for impressive Romanesque architecture.
Distance from Terminal: 37 miles
France Regional Tip
Jaywalking, especially in busy cities like Paris. Although often overlooked, police occasionally enforce fines, catching unsuspecting tourists off guard.