More about: 4 Best Kayak and Snorkel Tours in Tenerife
If you are looking to combine adventure, nature and spectacular seascapes, the kayak and snorkelling tours in Tenerife are a safe bet. The island offers a privileged setting for paddling through crystal-clear waters, spotting sea turtles, dolphins and even whales, and snorkelling to discover the richness of the seabed.
From small group routes to diving baptisms or guided excursions with boat rides, here are the best tours and activities to make the most of this experience in the sea off Tenerife.
1. Kayak and snorkelling tour to see turtles in Tenerife
Leaving from Los Cristianos beach, one of the best known in Tenerife for whale and dolphin watching, you will travel along the coast of the island until you reach the cliffs of Guaza Mountain, a privileged natural environment for viewing, both above and below the water: beyond the sea's surface, you can peer down to see life in its most exuberant form with an enormous variety of marine species.
What does it involve
The guide will always be on the lookout for any possible sightings of whales or dolphins, which are very common throughout the year in the waters around the island. You are also very likely to see turtles under the sea during the kayaking activity, and with a bit of luck, some rarer species such as Bryde's whales or blue whales.
Why I like this experience
This is a very complete excursion that fits perfectly into any trip to Tenerife, whether it's a short break or a week's holiday.
In my opinion, discovering the island's marine life is a must, whether by kayak or boat, and the advantage of this experience is that it also offers you the opportunity to do some physical activity to add variety to your trip.
Another reason (very important to me) why I recommend this experience is because the maximum number of people in your group will be 10, which is a far cry from other more crowded activities designed for tourists.
More information
- Duration: 3 hours
- Price: S$70
- Minimum age: 14
- What's included: Wetsuit, booties, life jacket, snorkelling equipment, photographs of your group, kayaking instruction session
2. Introductory diving in Costa Adeje with boat trip and snorkelling
This introductory diving activity in Costa Adeje is perfect for those who want to get started in the world of scuba diving. Lasting approximately 2.5 hours, it includes basic lessons in shallow water, a boat trip and a snorkelling safari in the crystal-clear waters of southern Tenerife.
What's included
You will learn to dive with the help of a qualified instructor and will be provided with all the necessary equipment, including a wetsuit. After the lessons, you will go on a light dive and enjoy a boat trip while exploring the marine life, with the chance to see sea turtles, dolphins and even whales.
Why I like this experience
It's an ideal way to get into diving without any previous experience. The natural environment of Costa Adeje is incredibly rich and the experience combines learning, adventure and relaxation on board.
More information
- Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Price: S$112
- Minimum age: 10
- What's included: Qualified instructor, diving equipment, snorkelling lessons, boat trip
3. Snorkelling tour by boat along the coast of Tenerife
If you prefer a lighter but equally exciting experience, this snorkelling tour by boat with a speedboat ride is ideal for enjoying the marine ecosystem without having to dive to great depths. For around 2½ hours, you'll sail along the south coast of Tenerife, spot dolphins and whales, and stop to snorkel in waters inhabited by turtles.
What's included
The tour combines sailing on a boat with a speedboat ride to the area where the turtles are concentrated. There you can swim and snorkel accompanied by a professional instructor. All equipment is included, and water and a snack are also provided on board.
Why I like this experience
It offers a relaxed and very accessible way to connect with Tenerife's marine wildlife, ideal if you don't feel ready to dive but want to experience the thrill of the sea. It's an ideal option for families or those who prefer a less physically demanding activity.
More information
- Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Price: S$69
- Minimum age: Suitable for all ages
- What's included: Snorkelling, speedboat ride, instructor, full equipment, water and snack
4. 3-day PADI diving course in Tenerife
For those who want to go beyond a one-off excursion and literally immerse themselves in the world of scuba diving, this PADI diving course in Tenerife is the most comprehensive option. In three days, you will acquire the skills you need to dive independently, with official certification and professional guidance.
What's included
During the course, you will learn the theory and practice of diving, including underwater breathing, equipment handling and safety techniques. It is designed for beginners and is carried out with accredited instructors in an ideal environment such as the coast of Tenerife.
Why I like this experience
It's a perfect investment for those who want to get seriously into diving and obtain certification. Unlike shorter excursions, this course offers training, continuous practice and the chance to dive in spectacular marine settings in complete safety.
More information
- Duration: 2 days
- Price: S$904
- Minimum age: 10
- What's included: PADI instructor, full equipment, learning materials, official certification, insurance
Frequently asked questions about kayaking in Tenerife
Is swimming with dolphins allowed?
Swimming with dolphins is strictly prohibited in Tenerife, so you can only get close to them on an organised tour. Kayaking is the best way to get as close as possible to these marine animals.
Is it physically demanding?
No. The routes chosen for these activities are low difficulty. Paddling a kayak can be tiring, especially after a couple of hours, but you don't need to be in spectacular physical shape to enjoy this experience.
What if I need to rest?
A boat accompanies your group at all times during the activity in case you get seasick or need to rest.
What if I've never kayaked before?
It doesn't matter if you've never been kayaking before, you'll receive a briefing before you start the experience, and the pace is always adapted to you, with breaks when necessary.
Do I need to know how to swim?
It is absolutely necessary that you know how to swim, as if your kayak capsizes, you will have to turn it over yourself from the water or wait for help. In addition, the experience is greatly enhanced by snorkelling and marvelling at the marine wildlife.
Can young children participate?
There is a minimum age for participating in this excursion: if you are thinking of doing this activity as a family, please note that for the first activity you must be at least 14 years old and for the second activity you must be at least 6 years old.
Are there changing rooms or suitable places to change?
At the kayak station there are changing rooms and lockers where you can leave your backpack if you wish.
When should I make my reservation?
I recommend booking your place on a kayak excursion as soon as possible, as it is one of the most popular experiences among locals and visitors to the island and, depending on the time of year, there may be a waiting list.
About marine animal sightings
- Tenerife is one of Europe's top spots for seeing dolphins, whales and other marine animals. You are practically guaranteed to see them any day of the year, as both the island's temperatures and its location make it the ideal habitat for cetaceans in the Atlantic.
- At night, the animals hunt in the depths of the sea and during the day they rise to the surface to rest, so during the day you are more than likely to have the opportunity to observe these animals.
- Something that I consider essential about the two experiences I have told you about is that they are totally respectful of the local marine fauna, and you will approach the animals with care and at a safe distance.
What to bring in your backpack for this experience
- Towel
- Swimsuit
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Water bottle
Other interesting activities in Tenerife
If you're planning a trip to the island, you'll know that a trip up Mount Teide is a must. The views from the volcano are breathtaking: you'll see the vegetation change around you as you enjoy a natural landscape that's unique in Spain.
Make the most of your time in the Canary Islands to visit some of the other gems the archipelago has in store for visitors: the islands of La Gomera and El Hierro are much smaller but just as charming, so I encourage you to read more about visiting La Gomera from Tenerife or taking a trip to El Hierro.