Palm Cove: Kayak Turtle Tour to Double Island & Reefs

Summary

Kayak from Palm Cove to Double Island meeting turtles rays and reef life

You’ll paddle from Palm Cove to Double Island with a local guide, watch for green turtles surfacing nearby, explore coral reefs and mangroves (and maybe even slip into a limestone cave if tides allow). Fruit and drinks are included while you rest on the beach. It’s quiet, close-up nature — sometimes surprising in small ways.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the water to be so clear — honestly, you could see your paddle shadow dancing on the sand below. We met our guide (I think his name was Steve? Or maybe Dave — I was still half-asleep) at the south end of Palm Cove, where everyone was already slapping on sunscreen and quietly sizing up the kayaks. The air had that salty tang you get just before sunrise, and someone nearby was eating a banana, which somehow made me hungrier than I thought I’d be at 7am.

Paddling out toward Double Island, it felt like we were gliding above an aquarium. Steve pointed out a green turtle coming up for air — he spotted it way before any of us did. There were these moments when everything went quiet except for the sound of paddles dipping in and out of the water, plus a random laugh whenever someone drifted sideways (that might’ve been me). We skirted some coral patches and then stopped near a cluster of mangroves. The smell there was different — kind of earthy and sharp, but not unpleasant. Steve explained how hawksbill turtles sometimes hang out here too, though today they were apparently being shy.

Depending on the tide (which Steve checked about five times), we either poked around the north side or slipped into this limestone cave. The cave itself was cooler than I expected — literally cooler inside, with little stalactites hanging down like teeth. If you’re lucky with timing, you can actually paddle inside; otherwise you just sort of hover at the entrance and squint in. After that, we landed on a sandy stretch for fruit and juice (the pineapple was ridiculously sweet). Some folks tried snorkeling while others just floated around or sat quietly watching rays flicker past in the shallows. It’s weirdly peaceful out there.

On the way back to Palm Cove, my arms were tired but in that good way — like after swimming as a kid all afternoon. I still think about that turtle surfacing right in front of us; it felt like time slowed down for a second. So yeah, if you’re looking for a kayak turtle tour near Palm Cove that doesn’t feel rushed or touristy, this one’s worth waking up early for.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayak tour to Double Island and beach

• Depart from Palm Cove
• Kayak to coral reefs near Double Island
• Spot green and hawksbill turtles
• Explore north or south island side
• See rays and shovel nosed sharks
• Visit limestone cave if tide allows
• Swim and relax at the beach
• Snorkel with provided equipment
• Return to Palm Cove

Top questions

How long does the kayak turtle tour from Palm Cove take?

The tour duration isn’t specified exactly but usually takes several hours including stops at Double Island and time for swimming or snorkeling.

Are kayaks and equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, all necessary equipment including kayaks, life jackets, juice, water and fruit are provided as part of the tour.

Is snorkeling included during the day trip to Double Island?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is available if you want to snorkel during your beach stop at Double Island.

Can beginners join this kayak turtle tour?

The tour requires at least moderate physical fitness but no advanced kayaking experience is needed; guides assist throughout.

What wildlife can you see on this kayak tour?

You may spot green turtles, hawksbill turtles, rays, shovel nosed sharks and occasionally dolphins or dugongs if lucky.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; tours start from the south end of Palm Cove where you meet your guide directly.

Is lunch included on this kayak turtle tour?

No full lunch is included but fruit and drinks (juice & water) are provided during your beach break on Double Island.

Are there any health restrictions for this activity?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health; moderate fitness is required.

What’s included

Your day includes all kayaking equipment such as kayaks and life jackets plus guidance from a local expert throughout your paddle from Palm Cove to Double Island. You’ll also get juice, water and fresh fruit during your beach break before heading back across the reef waters together.