Torquay: The Setting Sun & Wild Food Experience

Imagine paddling through the calm waters of the English Riviera as the sun dips toward the horizon, casting a golden glow over the UNESCO Geopark. This 3-hour sea kayaking adventure offers a unique blend of outdoor activity, natural discovery, and culinary delight. It’s not just a paddle—it’s a chance to connect with the coastal landscape, learn about its geological significance, and enjoy a locally caught seafood feast on the beach.

What really makes this experience stand out is the way it combines guided nature exploration with culinary artistry—foraging for wild herbs and hunting for fossils before grilling fresh mackerel over hot stones. The entire trip is thoughtfully designed for those who love authentic, hands-on adventures where scenery and local flavors take center stage.

One thing travelers should consider is the weather, as conditions can change quickly, and the experience requires being out through the evening. While the provided technical clothing and gear make it manageable in various climates, you’ll want to dress in layers and be prepared for the possibility of wind or cooler temperatures after sunset.

This tour is ideal for active, curious travelers who enjoy nature, local foods, and a bit of adventure. It’s particularly suited to those who want a memorable evening with a mix of physical activity and relaxed dining—perfect for families, couples, or solo explorers seeking something out of the ordinary.

Key Points

• Sunset paddling offers stunning views and a peaceful, almost meditative experience on the water.
• Visit sites of scientific interest—SSIs—adding an educational element to the adventure.
• Unique coastal highlights include Thatcher Rock and a natural arch, great for photo ops and wildlife spotting.
• Foraging and fossil hunting on a secluded beach brings a tactile, authentic dimension to the trip.
• Fresh seafood dinner of line-caught mackerel, flavored with wild herbs, cooked over hot stones.
• Small group size (limited to 10) ensures a personalized guide experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Itinerary and Scenery

The tour kicks off in the late afternoon, with a crew from Babbacombe Watersports leading the way. Their guides, well-versed in local geology and marine life, make the journey both fun and informative. We loved the way they balanced storytelling with hands-on paddling, making it accessible whether you’re an experienced paddler or a first-timer.

Paddling around the famous Thatcher Rock—a distinctive sea stack—offers fantastic photo opportunities and a sense of exploration. The natural arch further adds a dramatic touch to the landscape, and you’ll paddle through it, feeling like you’re in a movie scene. As the sun begins to set, the sky turns a spectacular palette of oranges and pinks, casting a warm glow that makes the whole experience utterly magical.

Wildlife and Marine Life

This tour isn’t just about scenery; you’ll have the chance to see local seal populations lounging on rocks or basking in the sun at their favorite haul-outs. Guides often point out resident cetaceans moving in the area, giving a glimpse of dolphins or porpoises if you’re lucky. This added wildlife aspect is a highlight for nature lovers.

The Foraging and Fossil Hunt

After paddling for a while, the group stops on a secluded beach—a quiet spot where the real treasure hunt begins. You’ll hunt for fossils—an activity that connects you to millions of years of geological history—and forage for a special marine herb. This herb will be used later to flavor the fresh mackerel, making the meal feel incredibly local and fresh.

Guests have raved about this part, noting how engaging and hands-on it is. One reviewer mentioned how the guide’s knowledge made the fossils come alive, turning a simple activity into a mini lesson in geology and marine biology.

The Seafood Feast

The highlight for many is the dinner. The freshly line-caught mackerel (or other white fish) fillets are cooked over hot stones—a simple yet effective method that adds a smoky flavor. The wild herbs foraged earlier elevate the dish, giving it a truly regional flavor profile.

The meal is served with local breads and salads, creating a relaxed, communal atmosphere. Past guests have appreciated the quality of the fish—”super fresh,” “cooked to perfection,”—and how this simple, natural preparation enhances the seafood’s flavor.

Practical Details

The tour lasts about 3 hours, with starting times depending on availability. The group is kept small (up to 10 participants), ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience. All technical clothing and equipment are provided, including waterproof jackets, spray decks, and thermal layers, which is a huge benefit given Devon’s unpredictable weather.

Participants should dress in layers—active clothes for paddling, plus warmer layers for sitting around the fire. It’s advisable to bring water, snacks, a waterproof camera, and comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activity.

Value and Booking

Given the inclusions—guidance, technical clothing, and a fresh seafood dinner—this tour offers good value, especially for those seeking a genuine, immersive experience. You pay upfront, with the flexibility to cancel 24 hours in advance if needed, making it a low-risk booking.

Why This Tour Works

This experience appeals to travelers who want more than just sightseeing. It’s ideal for those with a sense of adventure, curiosity about marine and geological life, and an appreciation for local food. The storytelling from guides adds depth, and the scenic paddling makes it memorable.

It’s also a fantastic way to unwind and slow down, watching the sunset while paddling along unspoiled coastlines. The combination of wildlife, geology, foraging, and fresh seafood is both invigorating and satisfying in a very authentic way.

Who Should Consider This Experience

While perfect for active travelers, those with seasickness concerns should note that it’s out on the water through the evening, and conditions can change. It’s not suitable for individuals with food allergies, as the focus is on enjoying locally sourced seafood and wild herbs.

Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers looking to connect with nature will find this tour enriching. It’s especially suited for those eager to explore Devon’s natural environment in a small-group setting, learning and tasting along the way.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, guides are experienced and provide all necessary equipment, making it accessible for beginners who are comfortable with minimal paddling and outdoor activity.

What should I wear?
Layered clothing is recommended, including active wear, waterproof trousers, or gym leggings. The tour outfit includes technical gear like waterproof jackets and spray decks to keep you dry.

Can I bring my camera?
Absolutely. A waterproof camera is ideal to capture the scenic views, wildlife, and the sunset without worry.

What wildlife might I see?
Seals are common at their haul-outs, and resident cetaceans, such as dolphins or porpoises, may be spotted moving around South Devon.

Is the meal included?
Yes, the tour features a fresh, line-caught mackerel dinner, flavored with wild herbs and served with local breads and salads.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour can be canceled or rescheduled if weather conditions are unsafe, and you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours prior.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, active outdoor gear and paddling are involved, so older children or teenagers would be more suitable.

Can I join last minute?
Availability depends on the schedule; it’s best to book in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak season.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a truly immersive outdoor experience that combines scenic paddling, wildlife watching, geological discovery, and a delicious seafood meal, this tour ticks all the boxes. The small group size and professional guidance create a relaxed but engaging atmosphere, perfect for travelers wanting to connect with Devon’s natural charm.

It’s an experience that not only offers incredible sights and flavors but also leaves you with stories and photos to cherish. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a curious first-timer, this sunset tour promises a memorable adventure rooted in the beauty and bounty of the English Riviera.

Ideal for adventure lovers, foodies, and nature enthusiasts alike, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Devon’s coastal wonders.