Tenerife: Guided kayak tour with snorkeling in a marine reserve

If you’re looking to add an active, nature-filled adventure to your Tenerife trip, a guided kayak tour with snorkeling could be just the ticket. While I haven’t personally tried this one, I’ve looked into what makes it appealing — and it seems like a pretty solid option for anyone wanting to explore the island’s pristine coastline from a different perspective.

What really stands out is how accessible it appears to be — suitable for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike — and that it offers the chance to see marine life like dolphins and turtles, which can be a real treat. Plus, the tour’s focus on safety and providing quality equipment means you don’t need to be a pro to enjoy it.

One thing to keep in mind is that the experience is about three hours, so if you’re not into being on the water for a good chunk of time or if weather conditions turn rough, it might not be ideal. Still, it’s a flexible, well-reviewed trip that seems best suited for those craving a mix of adventure, scenery, and marine discovery—perfect for travelers who want a memorable outdoor outing.

Key Points

• Accessible for beginners: Stable kayaks and a detailed safety briefing make it manageable regardless of skill level.
• Includes snorkeling: Perfect for those wanting to see underwater life without needing prior experience.
• Beautiful coastal scenery: Rugged cliffs and hidden coves offer Instagram-worthy views.
• Small group size: Max 20 travelers, so you get more personalized attention.
• Professional guide and photos: Guides are friendly, and you can purchase professional shots afterward.
• Value for price: At just over $40, it combines active fun with scenic exploration.

An Overview of the Experience

This guided kayak tour in Tenerife promises roughly three hours of outdoor exploration, starting from a meeting point in Palm-Mar. From there, the guide will give you a safety briefing and a quick rundown of paddling techniques, making it accessible whether you’re a first-timer or have some kayaking experience. The kayaks provided are designed for stability, which is especially reassuring if you’re a beginner worrying about tipping over.

Once you’re ready, you’ll head out into the calm, transparent waters. The coastline here is striking — think dramatic cliffs and secret coves that you might not easily access otherwise. We loved the way the scenery combined rugged nature with a sense of tranquility; it’s more peaceful than crowded beach resorts and offers a sense of discovery. Keep your camera handy, as the views are as good as they look in photos.

A highlight of this tour is the stop for snorkeling. After about an hour of paddling, you’ll reach a bay accessible only by boat, which adds an element of adventure. This is where the marine reserve truly shows its charm. The waters here are crystal-clear, and guided by your snorkel masks, you’ll get up close with marine inhabitants like fish, turtles, and maybe even dolphins — as one reviewer happily reported, “Abbiamo visto delfini e tartarughe, siamo stati felicissimi.” The snorkeling break is the perfect way to cool off and take in the underwater world, adding a layer of excitement to the trip.

Post-snorkeling, you’ll return to your kayaks and continue exploring. The guide’s knowledge and attentiveness make a difference, helping you spot marine life and navigate the coast safely. Waterproof bags are provided so you can bring along essentials without worrying about water damage, which is a thoughtful touch. The small group size means you won’t feel lost in the crowd, and guides are usually attentive to individual needs, whether you’re paddling for fun or seeking a more relaxed pace.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $40.12 per person, this tour includes the use of snorkeling gear, life jackets, waterproof bags for your belongings, and a knowledgeable guide. It also covers insurance, which adds peace of mind. The professional photos are available for purchase afterward — a nice bonus for capturing memories, although not included in the base price.

However, if you’re hoping to get videos or additional photos as part of the package, that will cost extra. Also, note that children under 6 and those weighing more than 100 kg might face restrictions, so check with the provider if your group includes these guests.

The Logistics

The meeting point is at Easy Kayak Tenerife in Palm-Mar. The tour departs at a time specified upon booking, and the activity ends back at the starting point, which makes planning your day easier. Booking on average occurs about 15 days in advance, indicating good availability but also a chance to secure your spot early.

Given the group size cap of 20 travelers, it’s a relatively intimate experience, and the small group setting makes it easier to ask questions and get personalized attention. The option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund adds flexibility if your plans change.

Real Traveler Insights

Reviewers consistently mention how enjoyable and manageable the experience is. One described it as “a very fun experience and doable even for beginners,” which is reassuring if you’re new to kayaking. Another praised their chance to see dolphins and turtles, noting the guides’ expertise in spotting marine life.

The overall rating is a strong 4.6 out of 5 from 10 reviews, with most giving high marks for the scenery, the guide’s friendliness, and the overall value for money. The only potential downside is that the weather can affect the experience — if the sea’s choppy or windy, the trip might be less comfortable or postponed, so always check the forecast.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is an excellent choice for active travelers wanting a more natural, interactive experience of Tenerife’s coast. It’s especially suited for those who want to see marine life up close and don’t mind a bit of physical activity. Families with older children might enjoy it, but keep in mind the age and weight restrictions. It’s also ideal if you prefer small group settings over large, crowded excursions.

If you’re looking for a relaxed day lounging on the beach, this might not be your best pick. However, if you’re craving a bit of adventure, scenic views, and underwater discovery all in one, this guided kayak and snorkeling combo fits the bill.

The Sum Up

All in all, this Tenerife kayak tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to explore the island’s coastline beyond the usual beach day. It combines gentle paddling with the thrill of snorkeling and the chance to see marine animals like dolphins and turtles, making it a well-rounded outdoor experience. The price point is reasonable, especially considering the equipment and guides included, and the small group setting promises a more personalized, engaging outing.

If you’re someone who loves outdoor activities, appreciates nature, and wants a memorable adventure that’s suitable for beginners, this tour will likely hit all the right notes. Plus, with the option of buying professional photos afterward, you’ll have lovely keepsakes of your day on the water.

While weather conditions can influence the experience, the overall reviews suggest it’s a reliable, enjoyable choice — particularly for those interested in marine life and scenic coastal views. Just remember to book in advance, keep an eye on the forecast, and come prepared for a fun, active day.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the kayaks are designed for stability, and the guide provides a detailed safety briefing and paddling instructions, making it accessible for novices.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, including paddling and snorkeling breaks.

What equipment is provided?
You’ll get snorkeling gear, life jackets, waterproof bags for your belongings, and a guide to assist throughout.

Can I see marine life during the tour?
Many travelers have reported seeing dolphins, turtles, and various fish — the marine reserve is a prime spot for marine encounters.

Are there any age or weight restrictions?
Children under 6 are not suited for this activity, and those over 100 kg may face restrictions. It’s best to check with the provider if you have concerns.

What is the meeting point?
The activity begins at Easy Kayak Tenerife, located at Av. el Palm-Mar, 94, Palm-Mar.

Is there an option to cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What’s included in the price?
Use of snorkeling equipment, life jackets, waterproof bags, a guide, and insurance.

Can I buy photos after the tour?
Yes, professional photos are available for purchase, capturing your best moments on the water.

Is this activity good for families?
While it’s suitable for many travelers, check restrictions for children and weight beforehand to ensure everyone can participate safely.

If you’re after a scenic, active day exploring Tenerife’s coast with opportunities for marine wildlife sightings, this kayak and snorkeling tour is worth considering. Just prepare for good weather, book early, and enjoy the fun under the sun.