Barcelona: Costa Brava Tour with Kayak & Lagoon Snorkeling

If you’re looking to escape the hustle of Barcelona and experience the natural beauty of Costa Brava, this tour offers a well-rounded, activity-packed day that combines hiking, kayaking, and snorkeling in some of Catalonia’s most beautiful spots. With a small group atmosphere and a knowledgeable guide, it promises an immersive day out, perfect for active travelers who want to see the coast from a local’s perspective.

One thing we really love about this experience is how it balances adventure with relaxation. From scenic hikes and cliffside coves to tranquil lagoons for swimming, every moment feels carefully curated to showcase the region’s best features. The guide, Stepan, consistently earns praise for his friendliness, knowledge, and ability to tailor the day to the group’s needs.

A potential consideration is that this tour requires good physical fitness and swimming confidence, so it isn’t ideal for travelers with mobility issues or those prone to seasickness. Also, since the tour involves outdoor activities, weather can influence the itinerary—kayaking locations might shift if sea conditions aren’t suitable. Still, the overall value, especially given the small group size and included gear, makes it a worthwhile investment for those who love outdoor adventures.

This tour is best suited for active, curious travelers eager to explore Costa Brava’s coastline beyond the typical tourist spots. If you’re comfortable in the water, enjoy light hiking, and love discovering local landscapes, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small group size (up to 8 participants) ensures an intimate, tailored adventure.
• Active Day Out: Combines hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, and beach relaxation for a full sensory experience.
• Expert Guidance: Tour guides like Stepan bring a wealth of local knowledge, making the journey educational and fun.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect breathtaking views of cliffs, coves, and lagoons that feel completely untouched.
• Flexible & Adaptable: Locations may change depending on weather, but your guide prioritizes safety and conditions.
• Great Value: All equipment, including kayaks, snorkeling gear, wetsuits (optional), and insurance, are included in the price, making the $85 fee quite reasonable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure kicks off at a central location in Barcelona—Pl. de Catalunya, 17—making it easy for city dwellers to meet up without hassle. From there, a 75-minute van ride whisks you to the Costa Brava coastline, giving you a chance to get excited about what’s ahead while soaking up some scenic views during the drive.

The Hiking Segment in Sant Feliu de Guíxols

Once on site, you’ll embark on a gentle, yet invigorating, one-hour hike. This part isn’t just about exercise; it’s a chance to learn about the area’s history, flora, and fauna. Your guide, Stepan, shares his extensive knowledge of the local herbs, trees, and traditional foods, making the walk both educational and fun. Several reviews highlight how engaging Stepan is—he is praised for storytelling and his ability to make everyone feel included.

This part of the day is also a great opportunity to snap some photos of dramatic coastal views from various viewpoints. The early sun bathes the landscape in a warm glow, making the scenery even more photogenic. Plus, the hike acts as a natural warm-up, preparing you physically and mentally for the activities ahead.

Kayaking & Snorkeling in Costa Brava

After the hike, it’s time to gear up for sea kayaking. You’ll learn basic paddling techniques and be reminded to stretch beforehand—an extra touch that shows how safety-conscious and attentive your guide is. The kayaking section lasts about 2.5 hours, during which you’ll explore the coastline’s sandstone coves and towering cliffs. The double sit-on-top kayaks are stable and easy to handle, even for less experienced paddlers.

One of the highlights is finding a secluded lagoon among the cliffs, where you can take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters. Many reviews mention how stunning these lagoons are, and snorkelers will be thrilled to chase seabreams or pikeperch with the provided diving masks. The calm waters make it ideal for both snorkeling novices and more experienced swimmers.

Several guests comment on how well the guide helps those who are less confident in the water—Stephan’s patience and encouragement help everyone feel comfortable. “Stephan was an excellent guide. He helped all who needed a boost get back in the kayaks after snorkeling,” one traveler noted, illustrating how attentive he is.

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Lunch & Free Time at Platja de Sant Pol

Post-kayaking, there’s a well-deserved lunch break around 1.5 hours long at nearby restaurants in Sant Pol de Sagaró. This allows you to sample local cuisine, relax on the beach, or simply recharge before heading back. Many reviews highlight how the day combines the physical activities with enough downtime to enjoy the scenery and casual conversations.

Return Transit and Final Remarks

After lunch, a second 75-minute van ride takes you back to Barcelona, completing a full 9-hour day of adventure. The return trip offers a chance to relax and reflect on a day filled with scenic beauty, physical activity, and new knowledge from your guide.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $85 per person, this experience packs in a lot: hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, transportation, gear, and insurance. The inclusion of quality equipment and the small group setting make it feel personal and well-organized. Several reviewers mention how the tour is thoughtfully arranged, emphasizing safety and enjoyment without feeling rushed.

The guided nature of the trip means you’ll receive lots of local insights, making the experience richer than just a day at the beach. If you value authentic, active adventures with knowledgeable guides in a stunning setting, this trip delivers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for active travelers who enjoy exploring on foot and in water. It’s perfect for those comfortable swimming in open waters and willing to engage in light hiking. Families with older children (generally 8+) will enjoy the mix of adventure and scenic beauty; however, it’s not suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Anyone looking for a small-group experience with personal attention and expert guidance will find this trip rewarding. It’s a great way to see Costa Brava’s coastline—away from crowds—while learning about the local environment from someone passionate about the area.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned van from Pl. de Catalunya is included, making it easy to access the coastal spots.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, and water shoes. It’s also wise to pack some snacks or fruit for the hike and kayaking.

Can I participate if I’m not a strong swimmer?
While swimming confidence is recommended, the guide helps those less comfortable. However, participation in kayaking may be restricted if you are not confident in swimming or have health issues like back problems.

What if the weather is bad?
Locations for kayaking and snorkeling may change due to sea conditions. Safety is a priority, and your guide will adjust plans accordingly.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable for children over 8 years old who are water confident and physically active. It’s not recommended for younger children or those with mobility or health concerns.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The activities involve some light hiking, paddling, and swimming, so a moderate level of fitness is recommended. The hike is manageable, but the kayaking can be physically tiring if you’re not accustomed to it.

Are gear and equipment provided?
Yes, all kayaking gear, snorkeling equipment, wetsuits (optional), paddles, and lifejackets are included.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized and relaxed experience.

Final Thoughts

This Costa Brava tour from Barcelona offers a well-balanced mix of outdoor adventure and scenic exploration. With a capable guide like Stepan, guests can expect an educational and fun-filled day that highlights the region’s natural beauty. The combination of hiking, kayaking, and snorkeling makes it ideal for travelers seeking active experiences away from the city’s crowds.

The price reflects good value considering the included equipment, transportation, and small group setting. The day’s itinerary is thoughtfully designed to maximize sightseeing while allowing plenty of time for relaxation and spontaneous discoveries.

Overall, if you’re after a genuine, hands-on coastal adventure that combines physical activity with cultural insights, this tour is a smart choice. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy being on the water, exploring nature, or simply want to see Costa Brava’s coastline from a different perspective.

In summary, this experience is a standout for active travelers wanting a personal touch—guided by an informed and friendly leader—and an authentic taste of Costa Brava’s stunning coastline. Expect breathtaking views, engaging activities, and plenty of opportunities to connect with nature. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this tour provides a memorable day that captures the essence of the Mediterranean’s rugged beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby