Tenerife: Kayak & Snorkel with Turtles & Dolphins w/Photos

If you’re dreaming of a day out on the water in Tenerife, this kayaking and snorkeling adventure promises to be a memorable blend of wildlife encounters, scenic views, and active fun. While I haven’t personally paddled through these waters, this tour consistently earns high praise from travelers for good reason. It’s a fantastic option for those wanting a hands-on experience with marine life and a chance to explore the island’s stunning volcanic coast.

What really draws people in are the frequent dolphin sightings and the chance to swim right next to turtles, which are highlights that make this trip stand out. Plus, the guide’s knowledge and enthusiasm shine through in the reviews, making the experience both informative and enjoyable. However, it’s worth noting that the activity involves quite a bit of paddling — so it’s not ideal if you’re looking for a relaxing boat cruise or have certain physical limitations.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy active outdoor activities, love wildlife, and want a genuine feel of the ocean in Tenerife. It’s a good pick for those traveling as a couple, with friends, or even with older children who are comfortable in water and active pursuits.

Key Points

• Wildlife sightings are common, including dolphins, turtles, and colorful fish, with high chances of seeing these animals in their natural environment.
• Expert guides make a significant difference, providing safety instructions, local insights, and capturing photos during the trip.
• The combination of kayaking and snorkeling offers variety, with scenic coastlines, sea caves, and underwater exploration.
• The experience is well-organized, with lockers, changing facilities, and complimentary photos that add value.
• Weather conditions matter; activities might be canceled in stormy or adverse sea conditions, so flexibility can be helpful.
• For those who enjoy active adventures and wildlife encounters, this tour provides a rewarding and authentic experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the Volcanic Coast of Tenerife

Tenerife’s southern coast is a showcase of volcanic landscapes, with dramatic cliffs and secret caves that beg to be explored. The tour begins at the Shaka center in Los Cristianos, a convenient meeting point equipped with changing rooms and lockers, making it easy to prepare for your aquatic adventure.

Once you’ve checked in and stored your belongings, the adventure kicks off with a safety briefing and a quick training session. This part is important, especially for those new to kayaking, but the guides do a good job of making everyone comfortable regardless of experience level. You’ll be paddling a double kayak, which is stable and approved for two adults and a child, so families with older kids can join in.

Paddling Along the Coast and Visiting Sea Caves

From the beach of Los Cristianos, you’ll start your journey into the Atlantic Ocean. The water here is typically clear and blue, offering lovely views even from the kayak. The route takes you past iconic sites like Playa de Los Cristianos and colossal volcanic cliffs that reveal Tenerife’s volcanic origins.

One of the most intriguing parts of this trip is entering the small, hidden caves along the coast. These caves offer a peek into the rugged volcanic landscape and provide a dramatic backdrop for photos. Many reviews highlight how special it feels to be so close to these natural formations.

Snorkeling Among Sea Turtles and Fish

After paddling along the coast, you’ll reach a designated snorkeling area near a sea cave — an ideal spot for underwater exploration. Here, the water is calm, and the seabed teems with marine life. You’ll snorkel with professional equipment, and your guide will point out turtles, various fish, and even a big stingray that some lucky travelers have spotted.

Travelers consistently rave about this part of the trip. One reviewer says, “Our guide was great and my friend (to be specific Klára) fell in love with him. Great experience, I recommend it to everyone!” The chance to see sea turtles so close you can almost touch them is often described as breathtaking.

Wildlife Encounters: Dolphins and Crabs

On the way back, the focus shifts to wildlife spotting. Dolphins are a common sight and, according to reviews, the chances of witnessing them are between 80% and 90%. Paddling along, you might see pods leaping playfully or dolphins jumping beside your kayak — an experience that many describe as unforgettable.

The coast is also home to red crabs and other marine creatures. Watching these animals in their natural habitat adds an extra layer of authenticity to the trip. Many reviews mention how guides help spot these animals and take photos, so you leave with lasting memories.

More Great Tours Nearby

Returning and Refreshing

Once you’ve enjoyed the wildlife spectacle, you’ll head back to the starting point. After disembarking, there’s a small snack and plenty of fresh water provided, alongside access to showers. Participants often mention how well-organized and friendly the entire process is, which makes the experience smooth and enjoyable.

The Value for Money

Considering the 3-hour duration, expert guidance, all equipment, and the chance to see dolphins and turtles, this tour offers great value. The photos and videos they send afterward are a real bonus — especially since many travelers mention how they treasure those memories long after.

With many reviewers praising the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see marine animals up close, it’s clear that this experience strikes a good balance between adventure, wildlife, and professionalism. The reviews also mention that the guides are friendly, helpful, and passionate, making the trip all the more enjoyable.

Practical Details and Considerations

This activity is generally suitable for those comfortable in water and with moderate fitness levels — paddling can be tiring, as some reviews mention arms aching at the end. The tour is not recommended for pregnant women, people with back problems, or those over 220 lbs (100 kg). Adverse weather can lead to cancellations, so flexibility is a good idea.

Participants are asked to bring essentials such as swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and a hat. The activity is available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Italian, and French, which helps ensure clear communication.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wildlife lovers, active travelers, and those who enjoy hands-on adventures. If you’re excited by the idea of paddling along scenic coastlines, snorkeling with turtles, and spotting dolphins in their natural setting, you’ll find this tour very rewarding. It’s also a good fit for those who want a day out that combines physical activity with wildlife encounters, all in a well-organized setting.

While it’s not suited for pregnant women or people with certain health issues, most active adults and older children will enjoy the challenge and thrill of this trip. Families with older children who are comfortable in water will find it a fantastic way to explore Tenerife’s marine environment together.

FAQs

Do I need prior experience to do this tour?
No, the guides provide a quick training session, and double kayaks are stable, making it suitable for beginners.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and a change of clothes. All other equipment is provided.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, children over a certain age can participate, especially if they are comfortable in water, as the kayaks are approved for 2 adults and 1 child.

What if the weather is bad?
If the weather conditions are unsuitable, the activity may be canceled, and you will be refunded in full.

How likely am I to see dolphins?
Based on reviews, the chances are quite high — usually between 80% and 90%.

Will I get photos of the trip?
Yes, professional photos and videos taken with aquatic cameras are provided for free after the tour.

Is there a snack or refreshment included?
Yes, after returning to land, you’ll be offered free water and a small snack like a cereal bar, cookies, or bananas.

How long does the kayak part last?
The kayaking segments total around 2 hours, with a scenic paddle along the coast and entries into sea caves.

What is the difficulty level?
Moderate; paddling can be tiring but is manageable for most active adults and teens.

Is snorkeling equipment included?
Yes, you’ll be provided with professional snorkeling gear suitable for underwater exploration.

Final Thoughts

This kayaking and snorkeling tour in Tenerife offers a well-rounded, engaging way to explore the island’s marine environment. You’ll love the chance to see dolphins and turtles in their natural habitat, the stunning volcanic coast, and the helpful guidance throughout. It’s a trip that balances nature, adventure, and good organization — perfect for travelers seeking a meaningful outdoor experience.

While it involves some paddling and physical effort, most reviews highlight how worthwhile the effort is, especially for wildlife enthusiasts. For those who enjoy active days out, this tour delivers plenty of memorable moments and photo-worthy sights.

If you’re after an authentic, wildlife-focused adventure with professional support, this is a solid choice. Just remember to check the weather forecast and arrive prepared — then get ready for a day full of discoveries in Tenerife’s beautiful ocean.

You can check availability for your dates here: