From Sant Feliu de Guíxols: Kayak and Snorkel in Costa Brava

If you’re considering a kayaking and snorkeling tour along the Costa Brava starting from Sant Feliu de Guíxols, you’re in for a treat. While I haven’t personally done this tour, I’ve gathered plenty of insights from travelers and reviews to give you a clear picture of what to expect. This experience promises a mix of scenic paddling, underwater discoveries, and engaging local guides—elements that make for a memorable day by the sea.

What I really like about this tour is how accessible it seems, even for beginners. You don’t need prior experience to hop on a stable SIT-ON-TOP kayak, and the guides are noted for their patience and knowledge. Plus, the stunning coastline, with its dramatic cliffs and secluded coves, is a natural showstopper. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that sea conditions can influence whether the tour runs on a given day—so it’s not entirely predictable weather-wise.

This tour tends to suit nature lovers, water sports enthusiasts, or anyone eager to see the Costa Brava from a different perspective. Families with children over 7, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxed yet adventurous outing will find it a good fit. So, if you’re looking for a way to combine gentle adventure with gorgeous scenery, this might just be your next favorite activity.

Key Points

• Suitable for all skill levels: No previous kayaking or snorkeling experience required.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable, patient guides share insights about the area’s history, geology, and wildlife.
• Breathtaking scenery: Dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and marine life make every paddle and swim visually rewarding.
• All safety gear included: Life jackets, paddles, snorkel gear, and optional wetsuits for comfort.
• Flexible timing: Tours last about 2 hours, but check availability for start times.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for children aged 7+ when accompanied by adults.

The appeal of this Costa Brava kayaking and snorkeling trip lies in its combination of beautiful scenery and informative, friendly guides. We loved the way the tour offers a relaxed pace and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the coast, both from above and below the water. The guides seem genuinely invested in making sure everyone feels safe and has a good time, which makes a difference—especially if you’re traveling with kids or first-time kayakers.

The highlight for many is the chance to paddle beside impressive cliffs and explore secluded coves that are difficult to access otherwise. The itinerary includes a stop in a cove for snorkeling, where you can swim among fish, starfish, sea urchins, and possibly even octopus. The crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean here are perfect for underwater viewing, and the provided gear is said to be straightforward for beginners.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes It Special

Participants frequently mention the guided commentary, which enriches the experience beyond just paddling and swimming. The guides share interesting facts about the local marine life, geology, and history, making it both fun and educational. Several reviews highlight the patience of guides like Sergio and Pablo, especially when dealing with beginners or kids who might struggle with the kayak or need encouragement.

Possible Downsides

A key consideration is sea conditions—the tour might be canceled or postponed if the weather isn’t suitable. While safety is a priority, this unpredictability could mean rescheduling plans. Also, the tour lasts about 2 hours, which is perfect for a quick adventure, but if you’re craving a longer journey or more snorkeling time, you might find it slightly limited.

Starting Point and Check-in

Your adventure begins at the Kayak Center Guíxols, just a short walk from the main beach area in Sant Feliu de Guíxols. Arriving 20 minutes early is recommended to settle in, collect your gear, and listen to a brief safety talk. The meeting spot is easy to find—look for the wooden office on the left corner of the beach, with kayaks on display nearby.

Safety Briefing and Equipment

The guide provides a 15-minute safety briefing, explaining how to handle your kayak and snorkel gear. All necessary accessories—life jackets, paddles, snorkel sets—are included. For those chilly days, wetsuits are available to keep you warm in the water. The equipment seems straightforward, making it accessible even for first-timers.

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Paddling Along the Coast

The core of the tour involves paddling along the rugged Costa Brava coast, which offers stunning views of cliffs, hidden caves, and crystalline waters. Most of the time, you’ll be in a double SIT-ON-TOP kayak, which is appreciated for its stability and ease of handling. The guides lead the group, keeping everyone together and sharing stories about the area’s natural and historical significance.

Scenic Stops and Snorkeling

After about 45 minutes of kayaking, you’ll reach a sheltered cove for a snorkeling break. The underwater scenery is described as vibrant, with fish, starfish, and sometimes octopus. The guides take photos during this part, so you’ll have memories to keep—something many reviewers have appreciated.

Return and Reflection

After the snorkeling session, you’ll paddle back to the starting point, completing your two-hour adventure. Many reviews mention feeling relaxed and happy, with some noting how much they learned about the local environment.

Several travelers praise the knowledgeable guides, saying they go above and beyond to make the experience enjoyable. One reviewer mentioned Richard, who spoke multiple languages and ensured everyone felt comfortable. “He explained the route and made sure we all felt safe and had lots of fun,” they said. Another reviewer loved Sergio’s patience with beginners, especially during their multiple capsizes, highlighting how even setbacks are handled with good humor and reassurance.

The scenery also gets rave reviews. “The views above and under the water were spectacular,” said one traveler. Many describe the coast as dramatic, with cliffs and coves that are best appreciated from the water perspective.

Families especially appreciate the kid-friendly environment, with guides like Pablo attentive and encouraging. One review praised the activity as “great for kids” and noted the attention to safety and fun.

Value for Money

The price includes all necessary gear, a professional instructor, insurance, and photos—offering good value for what’s essentially a scenic, educational water adventure. It’s not overly expensive, and considering the natural beauty and the personalized guidance, many find it worthwhile.

• Duration: Around 2 hours, so plan for a morning or early afternoon activity.
• Availability: Check the schedule, as start times vary.
• What to bring: Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, water—basic essentials for a day at the beach.
• Restrictions: Not suitable for children under 7, pregnant women, or non-swimmers. Participants should have basic swimming skills.
• Weather dependence: The activity may be canceled if sea conditions are unsafe, so stay flexible.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is a nice touch.

This experience works well for beginners and water novices who want a safe, guided way to explore Costa Brava’s coast. It’s also ideal for families with kids over 7, couples seeking a scenic outing, or solo travelers eager for a gentle adventure. If you’re after a quick glimpse of the coastline with the chance to snorkel in clear waters, this tour hits the right notes.

It’s less suited for those looking for a lengthy or physically demanding activity or travelers who are very prone to seasickness, as the sea conditions can influence whether the tour runs.

If you’re looking for a combination of scenic paddling and underwater exploration in a relaxed setting, this kayaking and snorkeling tour offers a lot of value. The guides’ local knowledge and friendly attitude elevate the experience, making it accessible and educational alike. The stunning views and marine encounters make it a memorable part of any Costa Brava trip.

While it’s not the longest or most adrenaline-packed activity, it offers a gentle, fun way to see a part of Spain’s coast that’s often hidden from land-based visitors. It’s best suited for those who enjoy nature, appreciate good guidance, and want a straightforward, enjoyable water adventure.

Is prior kayaking experience necessary? No, the tour is designed for all skill levels, including beginners. The guides will teach you the basics before heading out.

Can children participate? Yes, children from 7 to 13 years old can join when accompanied by an adult. Kids should be comfortable swimming.

What should I bring? Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and water. All kayaking and snorkeling gear are provided.

What if the weather is bad? The activity depends on sea conditions. If the weather isn’t suitable, the tour might be canceled or postponed, so check in advance.

How long is the tour? It lasts about 2 hours, including safety briefings, paddling, snorkeling, and returning.

Is the activity wheelchair accessible? Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all guests.

Will I need wetsuits? Wetsuits are available for cold days, but most participants find the provided gear sufficient for a comfortable experience.

Are photos included? Yes, guides will take photos during the activity and share them with you afterward for free.

Is there a safety rescue boat? Yes, a rescue motorboat is available if necessary, ensuring safety throughout the tour.

Where do we meet? The meeting point is at the Kayak Center Guíxols, located on the left corner of the beach in Sant Feliu de Guíxols.

If you’re after a straightforward yet beautiful way to explore the Costa Brava’s coast, this kayaking and snorkeling tour seems like a solid choice. Remember to check availability, come prepared, and keep an open mind—you’re likely to leave with some great stories and even better views.

You can check availability for your dates here: