Polignano a Mare’s dramatic coastline makes for an ideal spot to explore by water. The combination of dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and fascinating sea caves offers a memorable setting for canoe and kayak adventures. Among the options, we particularly like the Stand-Up Paddle Tour or Rental because it provides flexible exploration time and an authentic way to take in Panoramic views of the city from the sea. Imagine paddling past hidden coves and dipping into turquoise waters, all at your own pace. For a shorter, guided experience concentrating on the sea caves, the Sea Cave SUP trip offers a chance to see caves used by pirates and enjoy a quick, engaging tour suitable for beginners. Lastly, the Kayak Sea Cave Trip provides a more intimate experience with a guided kayak into caves, perfect for those seeking a quieter, more immersive adventure.
Below, I’ve broken down each of these top choices, helping you decide which water adventure best suits your interests and travel plans.
1. Polignano a Mare: Stand-Up Paddle Tour or Rental
At number one, the Polignano a Mare: Stand-Up Paddle Tour or Rental is a flexible, self-paced way to explore the coast. For about $47 per person, you get a 1.5 to 8-hour rental or guided tour, making it perfect whether you want a quick paddle or a full day on the water. After a brief lesson, you’ll be set to cruise past bays, beaches, rocky inlets, and secret corners not accessible from land. This is a fantastic choice for travelers who enjoy independence and want to tailor their experience. Paddling around the sea caves and sandy bays offers incredible photo opportunities, and the turquoise waters invite plenty of swimming.
What makes this experience stand out is the freedom to explore at your pace—perhaps paddling out early in the morning or catching sunset views. The reviews are excellent, with a 4.9/5 rating from 43 reviews, many mentioning how relaxing and fun it was. The practical aspect of renting gear and the option for guided tours means it suits all comfort levels.
Bottom line: If you prefer a relaxed, customizable day on the water with scenic views, this SUP rental or tour hits the mark.
2. Polignano a Mare: Stand-Up Paddle Board Sea Cave Trip
At number two, the Sea Cave SUP trip offers a guided journey into some of Polignano’s most enchanting sea caves. Priced at around $30.75, this 1 to 1.5-hour trip is perfect for those wanting a quick but unforgettable experience. You’ll start at Sup Polignano – Escursioni SUPuglia and paddle to caves like Grotta Ardito, Grotta Azzurra, and Lama Monachile Beach.
What makes this tour special is the combination of exploring caves once used by pirates and stopping for a swim at Lama Monachile. The inclusion of a watertight bag and phone holder means you can take photos without fearing for your device. The tour includes a brief tutorial, making it accessible for all levels. Many reviews highlight how the guide Matteo made the trip enjoyable, sharing insights and taking photos. One guest described the experience as “a super unique way to see the coast,” emphasizing the breathtaking views and cave exploration.
This trip offers excellent value for travelers seeking a guided, short adventure into Polignano’s caves without the need for long commitments. It’s especially suited for first-timers or those with limited time.
Bottom line: For a guided, memorable paddle that focuses on caves and swimming, this SUP trip delivers a beautiful snapshot of Polignano’s coast.
3. Polignano a Mare: Kayak Sea Cave Trip
Rounding out our list at number three is the Kayak Sea Cave Trip, rated 5/5 from 2 reviews. Similar in duration to the paddleboard cave tour, this guided kayak adventure takes you into the same stunning caves, like Grotta Ardito and Grotta Azzurra, but with a more intimate and quiet approach. Kayaks tend to be easier for detailed maneuvering, giving you a closer feel for the caves and coastline.
The tour begins at Sup Polignano – Escursioni SUPuglia and includes stops like Cala Paguro for free time and swimming. The reviews highlight how Matteo’s personalized guidance made the trip exceptional—the quiet caves, sparkling waters, and the chance to swim inside glowing blue caves make this a memorable trip. One traveler shared, “It was my first time kayaking, but the guide explained everything clearly, and the water and caves looked like something from a postcard.”
Compared to paddleboarding, kayaking provides a more stable and less physically demanding experience, ideal for those wanting to focus on the scenery and caves. The tour is perfect for anyone comfortable with light water activity, and the included waterproof gear makes snapping photos easy.
Bottom line: If you prefer a close-up, peaceful tour into the caves with a guided kayak, this experience offers a deeply personal connection to Polignano’s coast.
How to Choose Your Canoe & Kayak Experience
When picking between these options, consider your budget, time, and interest level. The SUP rental gives maximum flexibility and independence, ideal for confident paddlers wanting to explore at their own pace. The guided SUP trip is perfect if you’re interested in a quick, educational tour focused on caves, with the convenience of a guide and included gear. Meanwhile, the kayak adventure offers a quieter, more immersive experience—great if you love small-group tours and detailed cave exploration.
Think about whether you want a full day on the water or a shorter, more focused activity. If you’re unsure about your skill level, the guided tours (SUP Trip, Kayak Trip) are excellent choices—they include tutorials and gear. Booking early is advisable, especially in high season, to secure your preferred time.
Final Thoughts
Polignano a Mare offers a range of canoe and kayak experiences that suit different tastes and schedules. For those wanting a relaxing, scenic paddle with the freedom to explore, the SUP rental or Stand-Up Paddle Tour or Rental is perfect. Adventure seekers aiming to explore sea caves in depth will find the guided Sea Cave SUP trip a great fit. For a more intimate, peaceful experience, the Kayak Sea Cave Trip is hard to beat.
No matter which you choose, these water activities promise memorable views and authentic experiences. Early booking is recommended in peak months, so plan ahead and get ready for a fantastic day on the water.
