Dubrovnik: Guided Kayak Tour City Walls, Lokrum & Betina Cave

Kayak beneath Dubrovnik’s walls drift by Lokrum island and hidden caves

You’ll paddle beneath Dubrovnik’s ancient city walls with a local guide, pass by mysterious Lokrum Island and its legends, and land at Betina Cave for a swim or snorkel break. Expect salty air, laughter between strangers in double kayaks, and a new perspective on this famous coastline you won’t forget soon.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes all kayak equipment—double kayak, paddles, life vests (even for kids), waterproof bags for your things, snorkel gear if you want to swim at Betina Cave beach—and full guidance from a friendly local expert who’ll share stories as you go along. Insurance is covered too so you can just focus on paddling (and maybe laughing at yourself) while exploring Dubrovnik’s coastline together.

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Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dubrovnik guided kayaking and sightseeing

• Start kayaking near Dubrovnik City Walls
• Explore coves and caves by kayak
• Visit Lokrum Island and hear legends
• Stop for photos at Game of Thrones sites
• Kayak to Betina Cave beach
• Snorkel and sunbathe at Betina Cave
• Optional cliff jumping at Betina Cave

The Experience

I wasn’t sure what to expect from a Dubrovnik guided kayaking tour — I mean, I’d seen those postcard shots of the city walls but never imagined I’d be paddling right under them. The sea was calmer than I thought it would be, with that salty smell you only get on the Adriatic. Our guide, Marko, handed out bright yellow life vests and grinned when he saw me struggling with my paddle — “Don’t worry,” he said, “everyone starts like this.” He told us little stories about the old quarantine buildings as we set off; apparently people used to spend forty days locked up there before they could enter the city. Wild.

The view of Dubrovnik from the water just felt different — almost private. We hugged the city walls in our double kayaks (I got paired with a Canadian guy who was way better at steering than me). There were shouts echoing off the stone from people walking above, but out here it was mostly just the sound of paddles hitting water and some distant church bells. When we reached Lokrum Island, Marko pointed out where Game of Thrones filmed a scene — not that I recognized it, but everyone else seemed excited. The water near Lokrum looked almost fake, so clear you could see every pebble on the bottom.

Betina Cave was probably my favorite part. You can’t get there except by kayak or swimming — no crowds, just our little group and some locals sunbathing on rocks nearby. We parked our kayaks and jumped in for a swim (the water was freezing at first but then perfect). Someone tried cliff jumping; I passed on that one but cheered them on anyway. It smelled faintly like seaweed and sunscreen mixed together, which sounds weird but actually made me feel like summer had finally started.

I still think about that moment floating just outside Betina Cave, looking back at Dubrovnik’s orange rooftops glowing in the late afternoon light. It felt like being let in on a secret most visitors never see — even if my arms were sore for two days after.

Top questions

How long is the Dubrovnik guided kayaking tour?

The tour covers about 5 kilometers along the coast and usually lasts an afternoon.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes, snorkel gear is provided as part of your booking.

Where does the tour start?

You’ll meet your guide outside Nautika restaurant near Ploce Gate in Dubrovnik.

Can beginners join this kayaking tour?

Yes, it’s suitable for all fitness levels and beginners are welcome; guides give instructions before starting.

Are there toilets along the route?

No toilets are available during the tour; use facilities before arrival for check-in.

What should I wear for the kayak tour?

Wear a bathing suit and shoes that can get wet—tennis shoes or flip flops work well. Bring sunscreen and a towel too.

Is pickup included?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet directly at the starting point in Dubrovnik.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Children can join if accompanied by an adult; child-sized life vests are available.