Kayak and snorkel Tour Platja d’Aro

This kayak and snorkel tour in Platja d’Aro offers a fantastic way to experience Costa Brava from a fresh perspective. For just $34 per person, you’ll spend two hours paddling along the coast, exploring hidden beaches and viewpoints only accessible by sea, while also enjoying the underwater world of the Mediterranean. The tour, operated by SET SAIL COSTA BRAVA, combines scenic beauty, light adventure, and local expertise, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking both relaxation and activity.

What we particularly love is the personalized experience—a small-group setting with a dedicated support boat and local guides who know every nook of this coastline. Plus, the chance to snorkel and observe marine life adds an extra dimension to the trip. That said, a potential consideration is the minimum swimming requirement and the need to arrive prepared with swimwear and water shoes, which is essential for safety and comfort.

This tour is well-suited for active travelers who enjoy the outdoors and are comfortable in the water. Families with kids over the age of 12, people looking for an affordable way to see the coast from the sea, and those eager to combine sightseeing with a bit of snorkeling will find this experience both fun and worthwhile.

Key Points

• Authentic coastal views from a unique sea perspective
• Support boat assistance for safety and guidance
• All gear provided, including wetsuits and snorkel equipment
• Local guides with in-depth knowledge of the environment
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Accessible for most swimmers over 12 years old and under 70 years of age

An In-Depth Look at the Kayak and Snorkel Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure begins at the Playa de Aro beach, conveniently located near the Nautical Port, making it easy to access whether you’re staying locally or arriving by car. The tour provider offers lockers, so you can safely store your belongings, and nearby parking is available for a fee. Arriving a little early is recommended to get ready and get familiar with the equipment.

The Itinerary: What Makes It Special

Once everyone is geared up, your instructor will give a brief rundown on paddling basics and safety, which is always reassuring whether you’re a seasoned paddler or trying kayaking for the first time. The journey then heads southward along the Camino de Ronda, a scenic sea walk that offers spectacular views of the coastline.

Throughout the 2-hour excursion, you’ll pass by Conca beach, known for its clear waters and rocky coves, and Gavina viewpoint, where panoramic vistas of the Mediterranean unfold before your eyes. The route is carefully chosen to showcase hidden beaches and striking coastal formations that are only visible from the sea—something that makes this tour stand out compared to land-based sightseeing.

Marine Wildlife and Snorkeling Highlights

What sets this experience apart is the opportunity to snorkel and get close to the marine ecosystem of the Mediterranean. The guide will indicate the best spots for observing marine life, and you’ll have time to practice snorkeling with provided equipment. Many guests, like the reviewer Ludivine, appreciated the attention of guides who were attentive to individual needs—especially important if someone on the trip isn’t feeling well.

The underwater environment here is described as unique, with some reviewers noting the experience of observing marine wildlife firsthand as a highlight. The inclusion of wetsuits helps with comfort, especially if the water is cooler than expected.

The Support and Safety Measures

Having a support boat always nearby offers peace of mind. The guides communicate via radios, ready to assist with anything from adjusting equipment to helping guests who might feel uneasy. One reviewer mentioned the helpfulness of the staff, noting how the guide managed a situation when a passenger didn’t feel well, emphasizing the tour’s focus on safety and care.

Equipment and Comfort

All necessary gear, including kayaks, paddles, snorkeling equipment, wetsuits, and life jackets, is provided. If you have your own snorkel gear, feel free to bring it along! For added comfort, water shoes that can be secured to your feet are recommended—this helps prevent slipping when getting in and out of kayaks or walking along rocky sections.

The Overall Experience: Pros and Cons

The main advantage is the stunning scenery—the views of the Costa Brava coastline from the sea are hard to beat. The combination of kayaking, snorkeling, and scenic stops makes it a well-rounded adventure. Plus, the tour’s affordability (at $34) offers great value, especially considering all the gear, insurance, and expert guidance included.

However, some guests have mentioned a disappointment about photos. One reviewer was told photos would be sent after the trip but did not receive them, which can be frustrating if you’re hoping for memories captured professionally. It’s worth clarifying this with the provider before the tour.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits active, water-loving travelers who want an authentic way to see Costa Brava’s coastline. It’s ideal for those comfortable in the water and over 12 years old, with a weight limit of 287 lbs (130 kg). If you enjoy combining light adventure with beautiful scenery and marine wildlife, you’ll be happy with this tour.

It’s also perfect if you’re on a budget and want a guided, well-organized activity with options for flexible booking—thanks to the free cancellation policy.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This kayak and snorkel tour offers a solid balance of fun, scenic beauty, and educational value for a very reasonable price. You’ll get to paddle along an iconic stretch of the Costa Brava, discovering secluded beaches and viewpoints that aren’t accessible by land, and dipping into the Mediterranean’s fascinating underwater world. The guides’ local knowledge and safety focus add peace of mind, making it suitable for a variety of travelers.

While it might not be perfect for those seeking high-end luxury or snapping professional photos—be prepared for the possibility of missing out on post-trip pictures—it excels in providing a genuine, enjoyable coastal experience.

Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a family with older children, this tour can be a highlight of your Costa Brava trip—offering a fresh perspective of this stunning coastline.

FAQ

Do I need to know how to swim?
Yes, knowing how to swim is mandatory for this activity because you'll be snorkeling and paddling in open water.

How long is the tour?
The activity lasts approximately 2 hours, but check the availability to see the specific starting times.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It's suitable for kids over 12 years old, as long as they are comfortable in the water and can swim.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear and water shoes that stay tied to your feet for comfort and safety. The tour provides wetsuits, life jackets, and snorkeling gear.

Are there locker facilities?
Yes, lockers are available at the meeting point for your belongings.

Can I bring my own snorkeling equipment?
Yes, you can bring your own if you prefer; the tour supplies all necessary gear otherwise.

Is there any flexibility to cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the beach near the Nautical Port in Playa de Aro and ends back at the same point.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Catalan, English, and Spanish to accommodate most travelers.

Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable, scenic, and active way to enjoy the Costa Brava coastline with knowledgeable local guides, this kayak and snorkel tour in Platja d'Aro is a fantastic choice.