Byron Bay: Sea Kayak Tour with Dolphins, Turtles & Photos

Summary

Kayak Byron Bay waters meet wild dolphins & sea life up close

You’ll paddle from Clarke’s Beach with a local guide, learn basic kayaking skills (even if you’re new), spot wild dolphins and turtles in Byron Bay’s clear water, and get free tour photos after. There’s something about seeing those animals up close that sticks with you long after your arms stop aching.

What’s the experience like?

We were already ankle-deep in the foamy edge of Clarke’s Beach when our guide, Kurt, started handing out paddles. He’s got this sun-bleached hair and a way of talking that makes you feel like you’ve known him for ages — “Don’t worry if you’ve never done this,” he said, grinning at me (I must’ve looked nervous). The sand was still cool from the night and I could smell sunscreen mixing with salt air. There was a quick lesson on how not to paddle in circles — easier said than done.

Getting out past the break took some teamwork. My partner and I kept bumping paddles and laughing every time we went off course. The water out here is clearer than I expected — you can actually see your shadow gliding over the sand below. Then someone shouted “dolphins!” and suddenly there they were, just kind of weaving around us like it was no big deal. Our guide told us about the resident pod that hangs out near Wategos Beach, right under the lighthouse. I tried to snap a photo but mostly just stared — it’s hard to think about anything else when a dolphin pops up next to your kayak.

I didn’t expect how much I’d notice the little things: the sound of paddles dipping in sync (or not), the way my arms burned after a while, or how everyone seemed to loosen up once we spotted those first dolphins. We even saw a sea turtle poke its head up for air — our guide called it by name but I missed it because I was too busy gawking at the view back toward Cape Byron. It’s strange how quickly you forget about your phone or what time it is out there.

Afterwards, we dragged our kayaks back through the shallows and someone handed me a wetsuit because apparently winter in Byron Bay is chillier than I thought. There were free photos waiting for us online later (I look ridiculous but happy). Sometimes I still think about that moment when everything went quiet except for the splash of something surfacing nearby — not sure if it was another dolphin or just my imagination running wild.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Byron Bay Sea Kayak Tour

• Meet at Clarke's Beach
• Embark on sea kayak
• Kayak across Byron Bay
• Visit Wategos Beach near Cape Byron Lighthouse
• Observe wild dolphins in habitat
• Look for sea turtles
• Spot humpback whales (May to Oct)
• Return to Clarke's Beach

Top questions

Is this Byron Bay sea kayak tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, beginners and non-swimmers are welcome; there’s a lesson on the beach before starting.

What wildlife might I see on this Byron Bay kayak trip?

You have a good chance of seeing dolphins year-round, sea turtles, and humpback whales during migration season (May–Oct).

Are wetsuits provided for colder months?

Yes, wetsuits are available to keep you warm during winter tours.

Where does the tour start?

The sea kayak tour starts from Clarke’s Beach in Byron Bay.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; parking options are available nearby.

Can children join this sea kayak tour?

Children aged 5–12 can join but must be accompanied by an adult.

What happens if we don’t see any dolphins or turtles?

If you don’t see dolphins, turtles or whales, you can paddle again for free on another day.

Are photos included in the price?

Yes, free high-resolution photos are available for download after your tour.

What’s included

Your day includes all kayaking and safety equipment plus a wetsuit if needed for cooler weather; there’s a friendly local guide leading you from Clarke’s Beach; everyone gets a quick lesson before heading out; free downloadable photos are provided after your paddle so you can relive that dolphin encounter later on.