Kayak tour in Pula to Valley of Tears/free drinks+photos included

Thinking about adding a bit of adventure to your trip in Pula? This kayak tour promises a chance to explore the coast in a fun, active way, with plenty of snorkeling, cliff jumping, and scenic views. While I haven’t done this exact trip myself, the glowing reviews and overall reputation suggest it’s a solid pick for those who want a hands-on experience of Croatia’s coastal beauty.

What really catches our eye about this tour? First, it’s all about accessing those hidden spots only reachable by sea, which means fewer crowds and more authentic scenery. Second, the photo and video package—including underwater footage—makes it ideal for travelers wanting keepsakes without the hassle of taking their own waterproof gear. That said, a small consideration is that, due to some recent changes, the famous Valley of Tears cave is no longer accessible, which might impact your expectations if you’re eager to explore caves.

This tour suits a wide range of travelers—from families with kids (as many reviews show kids as young as four having a good time) to groups of friends and adventure lovers. If you’re comfortable with physical activity and looking for a memorable mix of paddling, snorkeling, and cliff jumping, this could be just the thing to spice up your Croatia trip.

Key Points

• Accessible Adventure: Suitable for all ages with moderate physical activity involved.
• All-Inclusive Experience: Snorkeling gear, neoprene, dry bags, and photos included—no need to bring much.
• Scenic Highlights: Kayak along the coast, swim into caves, and jump off cliffs in beautiful, less crowded spots.
• Great Value: At $59.95, it offers a full 3-hour excursion with free drinks and professional photos.
• Group Size: Max of 30 travelers, making it lively but not crowded.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, perfect for planning flexibility.

What to Expect from the Pula Kayak Tour

This isn’t just a paddle around the water—it’s a full-day adventure that combines activity, exploration, and plenty of opportunities for fun and relaxation. The tour is designed to last about three hours, but with the generous reviews mentioning longer-than-expected experiences, you’re likely to get your money’s worth.

Starting Off: Meeting Up and Gear

You’ll meet at the Valkane location in Pula, where the staff from Puls Events will equip you with everything you need: life jackets, dry bags for your valuables, neoprene suits, and snorkeling gear. It’s all about making you comfortable and prepared. The group typically includes up to 30 people—large enough for a lively vibe but not so big that you’ll feel lost.

The Kayaking Path

The tour begins with a gentle paddle along Pula’s coast, offering a view of the shoreline that few visitors see. As you cruise along, you’ll be told interesting tidbits about the area’s ecology and local highlights—guides like Erik, who’s praised for their friendliness and knowledge, really make a difference here.

Exploring the Scenic Spots

The real treat comes when you reach the secluded areas accessible only by sea. The highlight, historically, was the Valley of Tears cave—a spot that many reviews mention with fondness. Unfortunately, the cave has been closed since March 2025 due to government restrictions, so the guides now focus on other scenic features.

You’ll paddle around Seagulls Rocks, which are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The clear waters invite you to see the underwater world—many reviewers loved the quality of the snorkeling equipment and the underwater footage captured by the guides’ GoPro cameras. As one reviewer put it, “The cave was beautiful and the snorkeling was fab,” capturing how memorable the underwater part of this experience can be.

Cliff Jumping and Snorkeling

If you’re feeling brave, cliff jumping is offered from lower points, though the highest jumps are off-limits for safety reasons. Many travelers rave about the cliff dives—”great fun” and “a highlight”—but always remember to listen to your guides and follow safety instructions.

Snorkeling equipment is provided, and many mention how helpful guides are in showing the best spots and making sure everyone gets good pictures. One reviewer shared, “The guides took loads of pics and sent us the link within days,” which makes it easy to relive the moments.

Food, Drinks, and Atmosphere

What’s better after an active paddle? Free drinks, of course. The tour includes bottled water and beer—refreshing and a nice touch that keeps everyone in good spirits. The relaxed, friendly atmosphere often feels more like hanging out with mates in a boat than a formal tour, which many guests appreciate.

Ending Back at the Meeting Point

After about three hours of paddling, swimming, and snapping photos, the tour circles back to the starting point. Some reviews mention that the experience feels longer because of all the engaging stops and activities—definitely a good sign you’re getting your money’s worth.

Valuing This Experience: Price and What You Get

At $59.95 per person, this tour offers a lot for the price. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, neoprenes, professional photos, and free drinks gives a sense of good value, especially when you consider the personalized, guided nature of the trip. Many reviews highlight that guides are friendly and knowledgeable, making the experience not just fun but informative.

While the cave exploration is no longer possible, the other features, such as paddling along scenic coastlines, snorkeling, cliff jumping, and capturing memories on GoPro, still make this a worthwhile adventure. The fact that reviews mention going beyond the advertised length indicates that the tour organizers are generous with their time and effort.

The Real Experience: What Do Travelers Say?

One of the standout features highlighted across many reviews is the guide’s friendliness and expertise. Guides like Erik are praised for their insights, fun attitude, and taking loads of photos—so you don’t need to worry about your phone getting wet or lost. The photos and videos are often described as “awesome,” and many guests say they would have loved to do the tour again.

Another key point from reviews is how flexible and comfortable the experience feels. One reviewer noted, “It feels more like going out with friends than a tour group,” which is high praise for a group activity. On top of that, the inclusion of drinks helps foster a relaxed, social vibe.

Family-Friendliness and Accessibility

Many reviews mention kids as young as four enjoying the trip, which makes it a surprisingly family-friendly option. However, children should be accompanied by adults and be comfortable with basic water activities. The moderate physical activity involved means it’s not for completely sedentary travelers, but it’s suitable for most with a decent level of fitness.

Practical Considerations

• Timing: Arrive 30 minutes early to ensure a smooth start.
• Clothing: Wear sport attire, water shoes, and sunscreen.
• Weather: The trip is weather-dependent; poor weather could lead to cancellation or rescheduling.
• Medical Conditions: Some pre-existing conditions, like asthma or heart issues, should be checked with your doctor beforehand, especially if you plan to snorkel or cliff jump.

Who Should Sign Up?

This tour is best suited for active travelers who want to see Croatia’s coast from a different perspective. If you enjoy water activities like paddling and snorkeling, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s also a good choice if you want a shared experience with friendly guides and the chance to snap some great photos.

Families with kids can enjoy it too, provided the children are comfortable with water sports. The relaxed pace and friendly environment make it accessible for most.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention kids as young as four having a good time. Children should be accompanied by an adult and comfortable with water activities.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes bottled water, beer, snorkeling equipment, life jackets, neoprene suits, dry bags, and photos. No extra charges for photos or drinks.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately three hours, though some reviews suggest it feels longer because of the activities and stops.

Is cliff jumping mandatory?
No, cliff jumping is an option, not a requirement. Safety measures are in place, and guides will advise on safe spots.

Where do I meet the tour?
At Valkane in Pula, Croatia, with a mobile ticket. Arrive 30 minutes early to be ready.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a lively, scenic, and active way to explore Pula’s coastline, this kayak tour offers excellent value. The combination of paddling, snorkeling, cliff jumping, and professional photos makes it a well-rounded adventure. With friendly guides and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s perfect for those who want to enjoy Croatia’s seaside without the hassle of planning every detail.

While cave exploration isn’t an option anymore, what remains is a memorable trip full of stunning views and fun moments. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate a mix of activity and relaxation, with a dash of social vibe. For $59.95, it checks all the boxes for an engaging half-day in Pula.

Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, this tour is likely to leave you with great memories—and plenty of photos to prove it.