Counting the waves…
Counting the waves…
Île du Levant has belonged to naturists since the 1930s, and Crique des Moines remains one of the island's quieter sanctuaries—no beach clubs, no jet skis, just a crescent of smooth stones beneath Aleppo pines and the occasional sailboat rounding the headland. You'll descend a rocky footpath from the village of Héliopolis, the island's sole civilian hamlet, past eucalyptus groves and the kind of stillness that makes you forget the French navy owns the rest of this limestone sliver. The water here is that particular Provençal blue—deeper than turquoise, lighter than sapphire—and cold enough in May to make you gasp. By July it softens, inviting long swims toward the offshore rocks where wrasse dart through posidonia meadows. Most visitors spread towels on the pebbles, read paperbacks under umbrellas, and ease into the day without a swimsuit or a schedule. The cove's eastern flank offers decent snorkeling over boulders colonized by sponges and anemones; westward, the coast steepens into cliffs favored by cormorants. Crique des Moines asks only that you carry out what you carry in and respect the unwritten codes of a place where bodily autonomy has been the norm for nearly a century. There's no café, no parking lot, no infrastructure beyond a narrow beach and the trails that connect it to the rest of this improbable, fiercely independent island.
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Crique des Moines.
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Swimming at Crique des Moines is generally safe in calm weather, with clear waters typical of the Hyères Islands. However, there are no lifeguards or emergency services at this remote cove. The rocky entrance requires careful navigation, and water shoes are recommended. As part of Île du Levant, a predominantly naturist island, visitors should be comfortable with this environment. Check weather conditions before visiting, as exposed conditions can make swimming dangerous. Strong swimming ability is recommended for this isolated location.
The optimal visiting period is May-June or September-October for pleasant weather with fewer visitors. Peak summer (July-August) brings more people to Île du Levant, though this hidden cove remains relatively quiet. Boat services to the island operate mainly from April through October. Early morning visits offer the best snorkeling visibility and peaceful atmosphere. Weather conditions are crucial—calm seas are necessary for safe boat access and swimming. The island's naturist character means summer is the most active season for the community.
Access requires taking a ferry to Île du Levant from Hyères, Le Lavandou, or neighboring Porquerolles. From Héliopolis village, the main settlement, reach the cove by hiking along coastal paths—exact routes and access may vary. Some visitors arrive by private boat. Be aware that much of Île du Levant is a military zone with restricted access; stay on designated paths. The island has limited infrastructure and the cove is remote, so plan accordingly with proper footwear, water, and supplies.
Crique des Moines itself has no facilities—visitors must bring everything needed. Héliopolis village on Île du Levant offers basic restaurants, cafés, and small shops, plus limited accommodation in hotels and guesthouses catering to naturist visitors. Most travelers stay on the mainland in Hyères or other coastal towns and day-trip to the island. All trash must be carried out. The island's naturist character means most establishments and the beach environment follow clothing-optional norms. Advance booking is recommended for island accommodation.
Île du Levant is Europe's oldest naturist resort community, and Crique des Moines, like most island beaches, follows naturist norms where clothing is optional or discouraged. Visitors should be comfortable with and respectful of this environment. Naturism here is family-oriented and non-sexual. While some clothed visitors are tolerated, embracing the local culture is appreciated. Photography of others without permission is strictly prohibited. The naturist lifestyle is integral to the island's identity, creating a unique, body-positive beach experience different from typical French beaches.
