Before you choose
What you need to know about this experience
A kayak and snorkelling trip in Tenerife is a guided activity of about 2 hours in which you paddle a kayak, usually a double, along the south coast and stop to swim and look at the seabed with a mask and snorkel. In some areas you may see sea turtles, although it is never guaranteed.
It is an activity of moderate effort, suitable for beginners. This page helps you choose an area and check the requirements. If what you mainly want is to paddle under the cliffs, see the Los Gigantes kayak route.
At a glance
| Aspect | What to expect |
|---|---|
| What it is | Guided sea kayaking with a snorkelling stop |
| Usual areas | Los Cristianos and Palm-Mar, La Caleta and Costa Adeje |
| Kayak | Double and stable on most offers |
| Duration | About 2 hours on the water; a little longer with preparation |
| Minimum age | From about age 6 on the offers reviewed; young children go with an adult |
| Ability to swim | Many companies require it; others do not. Check |
| Wildlife | Rocky-seabed fish; turtles possible, not guaranteed |
| Price | Depends on the duration, the area and the equipment included |
Usual areas
| Area | What it offers |
|---|---|
| Los Cristianos and Palm-Mar | Low cliffs, caves and coves; trips leave from Los Cristianos beach |
| La Caleta and Costa Adeje | Coves and rocky seabeds with good visibility |
| Los Gigantes | High cliffs; it has its own page |
The guide chooses the snorkelling spot according to sea conditions.
What happens
- Meeting on the beach or at the base.
- Equipment handout: kayak, paddle, life jacket, mask, snorkel and sometimes water shoes.
- Explanation of technique and safety.
- Paddling along the coast with the guide.
- Snorkellingling stop in a sheltered area.
- Return to the beach.
Turtles: what to expect
In some areas of the south you may see sea turtles, but they are wild animals and no serious operator can guarantee them. If you see them:
- Do not touch or chase them.
- Do not feed them.
- Keep your distance and let them swim away.
Who it suits
- Beginners, families and couples.
- Anyone who wants something active but not too demanding.
- Anyone who enjoys snorkelling and wants to reach areas that cannot be reached from the shore.
Who it may not suit, and what to weigh up
- Anyone who cannot swim: many companies require it; others accept you with a life jacket. Ask.
- Shoulder or back problems.
- Days with wind or swell: the trip may be shortened or cancelled.
How to choose well
- Which beach does it leave from, and what route does it take?
- Double or single kayak?
- Do you need to be able to swim?
- Minimum age? How do young children go?
- Are a mask, snorkel and water shoes included?
- How many people per guide?
- Is there a support boat?
- What happens if the sea is rough?
What is usually included and what to check
| Item | Usual practice | Check |
|---|---|---|
| Kayak, paddle and life jacket | Included | Children’s sizes |
| Mask and snorkel | Included | Hygiene and sizes |
| Guide | Included | Language |
| Insurance | Common | That it is included |
| Dry bag | In some offers | For your phone |
Safety
- Life jacket on for the whole paddle.
- Do not leave the group.
- Water-resistant sun protection: you feel the sun a lot in a kayak.
Weather and sea
- The afternoon wind can whip up the sea in the south; morning trips are usually calmer.
- With a swell, visibility drops and the trip may change route.
Price: what it depends on
We do not give a reference figure.
- Duration.
- Area and equipment included.
- Group or private.
What to bring
- Swimwear on, a towel and a change of clothes.
- Water-resistant sun protection and a cap.
- A rash vest or long-sleeved T-shirt.
- Water.
Alternatives and how to compare them
| If you are looking for… | Best option |
|---|---|
| Paddling under the great cliffs | Kayak route at Los Gigantes |
| Snorkellingling only | Snorkellingling in Tenerife |
| Standing on a board | Paddle surf in Tenerife |
| Diving for the first time | Try dive |
Frequently asked questions
Do I need kayaking experience?
No. Double kayaks are stable and the guide explains the basics.
Do you see turtles?
It is possible in some areas, but not guaranteed.
Do you need to be able to swim?
Many companies require it. Ask beforehand.
Can children come?
Yes, from about age 6 on the offers reviewed, sharing a kayak with an adult.
How long does it last?
About 2 hours on the water.
Will I get wet?
Yes: you go in the water at the snorkelling stop, and the kayak splashes too.