Gran Canaria is a fantastic place for snorkeling thanks to its clear waters, abundant marine life, and diverse coastal landscapes. The island’s southern shores offer calm, turquoise waters ideal for both beginners and seasoned snorkelers. One standout experience we love is the Catamaran Dolphin Watch Cruise with Snorkeling, which combines the thrill of dolphin spotting with the relaxing beauty of the ocean. Watching pods of dolphins leap beside a comfortable catamaran is a memorable highlight, and the added opportunity to snorkel in protected waters makes it even better.
Gran Canaria offers a variety of aquatic adventures, from boat-based dolphin cruises to paddleboarding lessons, as well as land-based explorations that mix hiking with snorkeling. Whether you prefer being out at sea with a crew, learning new skills on a paddleboard, or combining hiking with snorkeling in volcanic landscapes, there’s something for every type of traveler. Below, we present a curated list of the top snorkeling experiences on the island, each with its own unique appeal.
1. Gran Canaria: Catamaran Dolphin Watch Cruise with Snorkeling
At number 1 on our list is the Gran Canaria: Catamaran Dolphin Watch Cruise with Snorkeling. This tour is perfect if you want a blend of wildlife viewing, water fun, and relaxing sailing. For around $42 per person, you get 3.5 hours on a comfortable catamaran departing from Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria. The highlight is the chance to see dolphins and whales in their natural habitat. The crew keeps a keen eye on marine activity, and you can observe marine life through large glass panels below deck, which is great if you’re not keen on getting wet.
The trip includes a snorkeling stop at Taurito, where the waters are calm and full of marine life—an ideal setting for snorkeling. Guests rave about the friendly staff, smooth logistics, and the magical experience of dolphins jumping alongside the boat. Some reviews mention that the trip can be choppy, so bring motion sickness remedies if you’re sensitive. The onboard amenities include soft drinks and water, ensuring you stay refreshed while soaking up the sun and watching the coast pass by.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a good balance of wildlife, scenery, and water fun, making it an excellent choice for families and first-timers wanting an all-in-one experience.
2. Gran Canaria: Stand-Up Paddle Lesson & Snorkeling Tour
Next up, we have the Stand-Up Paddle Lesson & Snorkeling Tour, which is perfect for active travelers who want to combine fitness with underwater exploration. For 4 hours, guided by expert instructors, you’ll learn to paddle and ride the waves along the south and west coasts of the island. The tour starts at PRO SURFING COMPANY, with hotel pickups available in popular areas like Playa del Inglés, San Agustín, and Meloneras.
This experience stands out because it offers instruction suitable for all levels, from complete beginners to those wanting to refine their skills. You’ll explore hidden beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a fun way to see less-accessible parts of the coastline that are often out of reach from land. Guests appreciate the small group size—limited to four participants—allowing for personalized attention. The instructor’s local knowledge helps you spot the best spots for paddling and snorkeling.
What makes this tour special is the chance to master a classic surfing technique, combined with snorkeling in tranquil waters. It’s particularly suited for active travelers, families, or anyone interested in trying something new without the boat crowds.
Bottom Line: If you want a hands-on, skill-building water adventure that combines exercise with underwater sightseeing, this tour offers great value.
3. Coastal Adventure: Hiking and Snorkeling in the El Cabrón Reserve
At number 3, the Coastal Adventure: Hiking and Snorkeling in the El Cabrón Reserve offers a different take on aquatic fun. This 3.5-hour tour combines walking through a volcanic landscape with snorkeling in one of the island’s top marine reserves. It’s perfect for travelers who want a mix of land and sea, avoiding the typical crowded beaches.
The tour begins with a scenic hike through otherworldly volcanic terrain, followed by a short drive to the snorkeling site, where calm, clear waters teem with fish and other marine life. The tour includes all necessary equipment and a complimentary pick-up. Tour guides are knowledgeable and friendly, sharing insights about the geology and ecology of the area.
What sets this experience apart is the blend of physical activity and underwater exploration, ideal for those who enjoy a challenge but also want to relax in pristine waters afterward. The reviews highlight how the landscape looks like a different planet, and snorkelers often comment on the abundance of fish and clear visibility.
Bottom Line: This is a great choice for active travelers who want to see volcanic landscapes and underwater life in one go, with a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path vibe.
How to Choose
When deciding which snorkeling experience in Gran Canaria fits your trip, consider a few practical factors. If wildlife and a relaxing boat trip appeal most, the dolphin cruise delivers a memorable day on the water with the chance to see dolphins and whales. For active travelers or families eager to learn a new skill, the stand-up paddle tour provides an engaging combination of paddling and snorkeling. Lastly, those seeking a mix of scenic hiking and underwater discovery may love the hiking and snorkeling experience in the volcanic El Cabrón Reserve.
Think about your fitness level, time commitment, and whether you prefer being on a boat or exploring land and sea. Budget-wise, the dolphin cruise offers excellent value for its wildlife sightings, while the paddle tour offers a more personalized experience. Booking early is advisable in peak seasons, especially for small-group activities.
Final Thoughts
Gran Canaria offers a diverse array of snorkeling experiences suited for different interests and activity levels. For a relaxed day with wildlife viewing, the catamaran dolphin cruise is a top choice. If you want to learn a new water skill, the stand-up paddle tour provides a hands-on adventure. The hiking and snorkeling option appeals to those wanting a more active, nature-based experience.
No matter which you pick, be sure to book in advance—these tours fill quickly during busy months. With options to suit everyone, Gran Canaria makes it easy to enjoy the water and its incredible marine life, whether you’re floating on a boat, paddling along the coast, or exploring volcanic shores. Have fun choosing your perfect snorkeling adventure!