Abades: Paddle Surf and Snorkel with Turtles in a Volcanic Reef

Traveling to Tenerife and craving a mix of sport, nature, and a splash of adventure? If so, this paddle surf and snorkel tour in Abades might just be your cup of tea. It’s designed for those who want to enjoy the ocean, spot sea turtles, and explore vibrant marine life—all in a relaxing, safe setting. While it’s not a deep-sea expedition, it offers a unique combination of volcanic volcanic landscapes and marine encounters that make for memorable photos and stories.

What really pulls us in about this experience? First, the chance to see sea turtles in their natural environment—there’s something truly special about witnessing these gentle creatures up close without disturbing them. Second, the crystal-clear waters of Tenerife’s volcanic reef promise excellent visibility for both paddleboarding and snorkeling. That said, the activity is quite short—just about 1.5 hours—so if you’re hungry for a full day of adventure, you might need to plan some extra activities.

A possible consideration? The activity has a minimum age of 8 years, and it’s not suitable for pregnant women, non-swimmers, or those over 243 lbs (110 kg). Plus, weather can impact the schedule, so it’s worth being flexible and checking the forecast. This is an experience that suits beginners, adventure seekers, and nature lovers who want a relaxed yet engaging way to explore Tenerife’s marine world.

Key Points

• Accessible for all levels — no prior paddleboarding experience needed, and you can paddle on your knees or sitting if that’s more comfortable.
• Unique environment — paddle over volcanic reefs in crystal-clear waters, with spectacular views of Tenerife’s coast and seabed.
• Wildlife encounters — a good chance to see sea turtles in their natural habitat without disturbance.
• Includes snorkeling — explore volcanic formations and marine life close-up, including colorful fish and sea urchins.
• Short but sweet — around 1.5 hours, making it a great quick activity that fits into a busy itinerary.
• Family-friendly — suitable for kids 8 and older, with minors needing adult supervision.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Itinerary Breakdown

The adventure kicks off at Abades, a popular coastal spot with a relaxed vibe and scenic backdrop. Here, the tour guides will be easy to spot—they’ll be waiting with the paddle surf gear and snorkel equipment, ready to make your experience smooth from the start.

First, you’ll get a quick safety briefing and basic instructions on paddle surfing, suitable for complete beginners. The guides do a good job of making everyone comfortable, whether you want to paddle on your knees or stand up. The waters here are calm and clear, making it easy for first-timers to get the hang of it without feeling overwhelmed.

Next, you’ll paddle out over the volcanic reef, enjoying spectacular views of Tenerife’s coastline and seabed. The stable boards and calm waters create an environment where you can relax and focus on the surroundings. It’s an ideal spot for those who want a gentle introduction to paddle surfing without the pressure of big waves or crowded beaches.

The highlight—and what many reviews rave about—is the chance to spot sea turtles surfacing near the surface. Guides are experienced at pointing them out and ensuring the sighting feels natural and non-intrusive. It’s often described as a magical moment by participants, who appreciate the opportunity to observe wildlife in the wild. Some reviews mention that the turtles tend to come very close, making for incredible photos and close-up observations.

When you switch to snorkeling, you’ll explore a vibrant underwater landscape teeming with marine life. The volcanic formations create unique habitats—colorful fish dart around, and you might spot sea urchins or other marine creatures. The snorkeling equipment is provided, and the guides are attentive to safety, making sure everyone feels comfortable exploring underwater.

The tour wraps up as you return to the starting point, surrounded by the tranquility of the ocean and Tenerife’s volcanic scenery. It’s a relaxing way to end an adventure that combines sport, nature, and exploration.

What Makes This Experience Stand Out?

The chance to see turtles in their natural habitat is genuinely special. Many travelers have described this as the highlight, with some noting that the turtles often swim close to the surface, so no deep diving is necessary to catch a glimpse. The guides’ tips and positioning help maximize your chances of a good sighting.

The volcanic reef environment is another big draw. The waters here are incredibly clear, offering panoramic views of seabed features and marine life. This isn’t just a paddleboard trip; it’s a mini underwater adventure that brings you close to Tenerife’s volcanic heart.

The experience is designed for beginners and those with little to no experience. The guides are patient and thorough, making sure everyone feels safe and confident. Plus, the option to paddle sitting or kneeling lowers the barrier for those unsure about standing on the board.

The activity is fairly short—about 1.5 hours—which makes it ideal for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a relaxed, manageable activity. It’s a perfect addition to a day’s itinerary, especially if you want a taste of marine adventure without committing to a full-day tour.

What Could Be Better?

While this tour is quite popular, it’s worth noting that weather can influence the experience. Adverse conditions might lead to cancellations or rescheduling, so it’s best to stay flexible and check forecasts beforehand. Also, because it’s a shared activity for up to two people per booking, if you’re traveling solo or in a larger group, you might want to verify availability or consider booking multiple slots.

The activity doesn’t include transportation, so you’ll need to get to Abades on your own. Luckily, the meeting point is straightforward—a van with the gear waiting in front of the beach, which makes it easy to find.

And while photos and videos are available at an extra cost, the guides are helpful in capturing moments with your own camera or phone, so consider bringing a waterproof case if you want to document your experience.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $146 for a group of up to two, the price might seem a bit steep for a 1.5-hour activity. However, when you consider that this includes all gear, safety equipment, professional guides, and the chance to see turtles, many find it a fair value. It’s not just about the activity itself but the memories and wildlife encounters you’ll take home.

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Who Would Love This Tour?

If you enjoy light adventure, marine environments, and wildlife spotting, this tour offers a gentle yet engaging way to discover Tenerife’s underwater world. It’s particularly well-suited for beginners, families with older children, or anyone looking for a short, memorable activity that combines sport and nature. People who appreciate volcanic landscapes and calm waters will also be at home here.

This isn’t the best choice if you’re after a deep-dive into scuba or if you prefer full-day excursions filled with multiple activities. But if your priority is a relaxed, authentic experience with a high chance of seeing sea turtles and vibrant marine life, this tour hits the mark.

FAQ

Do I need to know how to stand up paddle? No, you don’t need prior experience. You can paddle on your knees or sitting down, which makes it accessible for everyone.

Is the activity suitable for children? Yes, kids aged 8 and older can participate, but minors must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I bring? Be sure to take swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing. No additional equipment is necessary unless you want to bring your own.

Are there any restrictions for participants? Yes, the activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women, non-swimmers, or those over 243 lbs (110 kg).

What happens if the weather is bad? The activity could be canceled if weather conditions are adverse. The tour provider will contact you to reschedule or provide a refund.

How long does the tour last? About 1.5 hours, including instructions and the actual activity.

Where does the tour start and end? It starts at Abades, where guides will be waiting with gear, and ends back at the same spot.

What’s included in the price? Paddle surfboard, paddle, safety equipment, snorkeling gear, instruction, guides, liability insurance, and optional photos at an extra cost.

Can I book now and pay later? Yes, you can reserve your spot with a flexible “reserve now & pay later” option, which keeps your plans open without immediate payment.

Final thoughts

If you’re in Tenerife and looking for a relaxed yet memorable ocean adventure, this paddle surf and snorkeling excursion is worth considering. It’s a fantastic way to connect with the island’s volcanic marine environment while enjoying wildlife encounters in a safe, beginner-friendly setting.

While it’s not an all-day tour, it packs enough highlights—like turtle sightings and volcanic reef views—to leave you with stories to tell. It’s especially well-suited for those who want a quick, engaging activity that combines sport and nature without requiring prior experience or a hefty time commitment.

Overall, it’s a solid choice for travelers seeking a fun, authentic glimpse into Tenerife’s underwater world. Just remember to book in advance, check the weather, and bring your sense of adventure (and waterproof camera)!

You can check availability for your dates here: