Barcelona’s coastline offers more than just a city skyline; it’s a gateway to some spectacular snorkeling and water activities. With crystal-clear waters, rugged cliffs, and secluded coves, Costa Brava stands out as a prime destination for underwater exploration. Whether you’re after a leisurely day of swimming and sunbathing or an adrenaline-filled kayak trip with cliff jumps, Barcelona’s surrounding waters won’t disappoint. Among the many options, we particularly like the small-group tours for their personalized touch and the full-day excursions that combine activity with ample relaxation time. For instance, the Costa Brava Kayaking and Snorkeling Small Group Tour with Lunch offers an intimate experience with just eight people, making it ideal for those who want a guided, hands-on adventure.
These tours range from full-day excursions with meals and equipment included to more immersive half-day outings where you can explore caves and lagoons. Each provides a unique way to experience Costa Brava’s rugged beauty and underwater life. Down below, we detail the best snorkeling adventures near Barcelona, so you can pick the one that suits your style and schedule.
1. Costa Brava Kayaking and Snorkeling Small Group Tour with Lunch
For around $98.48 per person, this small-group tour offers a full day of sea-based fun, combining kayaking, snorkeling, cliff jumping, and sunbathing. The tour lasts about 8 hours, starting from Barcelona and heading to the stunning La Costa Brava. What makes this trip special is its focus on small groups—limited to just eight participants—which ensures personalized attention from guides who share their local knowledge.
The day begins with a trip to S’Agaró, a peaceful beach with dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters—perfect for kayaking just beneath the Camino de Ronda coastal trail. After paddling and snorkeling in clear waters where you might spot jellyfish and octopuses, lunch is provided, and equipment like kayaks and snorkel gear is included. Many reviews praise the guide’s friendliness and expertise, with one saying, “JB made sure everyone was having fun and feeling safe.” It’s ideal for travelers wanting a mix of adventure, relaxation, and insider info in a small group setting.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a well-rounded, intimate way to enjoy Costa Brava’s waters, perfect for those seeking guided adventures with plenty of personal attention.
2. Barcelona: Costa Brava Kayaking & Snorkeling Tour with Lunch
For about $104, this 10-hour tour takes you from Barcelona to Costa Brava for a day of kayaking, snorkeling, and relaxing on the beach. It’s a comprehensive experience that includes a friendly guide speaking fluent English, delicious picnic lunch, and free photos of your adventure. The trip begins at Placeta de Vicenç Albert Ballester and includes an 80-minute bus ride to the coast.
Participants get roughly three hours of active time—paddling along the coast and exploring underwater life—plus three hours of free time afterward to lounge on the beach or hike along the scenic Costa Brava trails. The tour is praised for its well-organized logistics, comfortable changing facilities, and the opportunity to learn about the area’s marine life. One reviewer mentioned enjoying the snorkel in crystal-clear waters, saying, “The sea life was abundant, and the guides made it easy for beginners.”
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a longer, relaxed day with ample free time and photo opportunities, this tour balances adventure with leisure.
3. Barcelona: Costa Brava Tour with Kayak & Lagoon Snorkeling
Priced at $85, this 9-hour trip is perfect for those seeking a more personalized experience. It starts with a 75-minute van ride from Barcelona, followed by a visit to Sant Feliu de Guíxols for a scenic hike along the coast. The highlight is kayaking in Costa Brava’s pristine waters and snorkeling in tranquil lagoons, where you can probably see a variety of marine life.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on immersion—visiting quiet lagoons and exploring caves only accessible by sea. After kayaking, there’s time to relax and enjoy the local atmosphere with a break at Platja de Sant Pol, including lunch. The tour emphasizes a local vibe, with a chance to experience Costa Brava like a local. Many reviews highlight the quality of kayaking and snorkeling, as well as the friendly guides who explain the region’s flora and fauna in detail.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want an active, personalized day exploring Costa Brava’s beaches and caves, with some light hiking included.
4. Barcelona: Costa Brava Kayak & Snorkeling Small Group Tour
At around $112, this small-group tour offers an 8-hour adventure exploring Costa Brava’s secluded coves, caves, and cliffs. Limited to just a small number of participants, the tour promises a more personal experience with knowledgeable guides who share insights into regional wildlife, history, and geography.
The trip kicks off from La Bohème, with a 75-minute bus ride to the coast. It includes kayaking, snorkeling, and the chance to spot marine life like fish and sea urchins. One of the exciting features is cliff jumping from impressive heights—adrenaline junkies will love this. Guests often comment on how Marcos and Sergio made the activities fun and safe, helping out with everything from snorkeling to guiding cliff jumps. The boaters also get to explore caves only accessible by sea, making this a memorable adventure.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for active travelers who enjoy small-group camaraderie, cliff jumps, and marine exploration in a guided setting.
How to Choose
When deciding between these snorkeling experiences, consider your budget, available time, and what kind of adventure you want. If you prefer a full-day, guided small-group experience with personalized attention, the Costa Brava Kayaking and Snorkeling Small Group Tour with Lunch is an excellent choice. For a longer, more relaxed day with free time to explore independently, the Costa Brava Kayaking & Snorkeling Tour with Lunch provides a good balance of guided activity and leisure.
Those looking for a more immersive and quieter experience might prefer the Costa Brava Tour with Kayak & Lagoon Snorkeling, especially if they enjoy hiking along the coast. Meanwhile, the Costa Brava Kayak & Snorkeling Small Group Tour suits active travelers who love cliff jumping and marine wildlife viewing in a small, intimate setting.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak summer months, and consider each tour’s specific highlights to match your interests and fitness level.
Barcelona’s waters are calling, whether you want a relaxing paddle with underwater surprises or an adrenaline rush jumping off cliffs. With options suited for every type of traveler, now’s the time to plan your aquatic adventure—just don’t forget your swimwear!
