Dubrovnik: Sea Kayak Sunset Paddle & Wine with Lokrum Views

Summary

Sunset kayaking in Dubrovnik with wine, caves and old town walls

You’ll kayak from Dubrovnik’s ancient walls out to Lokrum Island with a local guide leading the way, pausing for snacks and wine on a hidden cave beach as sunset colors spill over Old Town. Expect laughter, sea spray, and moments of quiet awe—plus stories you’ll want to retell long after your arms stop aching.

What’s the experience like?

Paddle dips into the water before I even realize I’m nervous — our guide, Marko, grins and says something about “just following the rhythm.” I’m not sure if he means the sea or his own pace (he’s fast), but either way we’re off from Pile Gate. The city walls look different from down here, kind of softer in the late light. There’s this salty smell that clings to everything, and every so often you catch laughter bouncing off the stone. Someone behind me tries to take a selfie and almost drops their paddle — Marko just laughs and says it happens every day.

We glide along toward Lokrum Island, which honestly looks like it belongs in some fantasy movie. Marko tells us about a curse (I won’t spoil it) and points out where Game of Thrones filmed — I’m not even a fan but still, it’s wild seeing those spots in real life. When we stop at Betina cave beach, it’s hidden enough that you’d never find it without someone local. The water inside is cold on my feet; I half-heartedly try snorkeling but mostly just float and stare up at the weird patterns sunlight makes on the cave ceiling. Snacks come out — figs and something salty I can’t pronounce — and there’s this glass of Croatian wine that tastes better than anything I’ve had all trip. Maybe it’s just the salt on my lips.

The sun starts dropping behind Dubrovnik Old Town as we paddle back. Everyone gets quiet for a bit — maybe tired arms, maybe just that view. I don’t usually get sentimental but there was something about drifting there with strangers who felt less like strangers by then. My arms ached for days after but honestly? Worth it for that last stretch when the sky went pink over the city walls. Still think about that sometimes when I hear seagulls back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sea kayaking and island exploration

• Start kayaking from Pile Gate
• Learn about Dubrovnik history
• Paddle along Dubrovnik City Walls
• Explore Lokrum Island nature reserve
• Visit Fisherman's and Pigeon caves
• See Game of Thrones filming spots
• Stop at Betina Cave beach
• Snorkel and sunbathe at Betina
• Enjoy local wine and snacks
• Watch sunset over Dubrovnik

Top questions

How long is the Dubrovnik sea kayaking sunset tour?

The tour covers about 7.5 kilometers and lasts several hours around sunset.

Is previous kayaking experience needed for this Dubrovnik tour?

No prior kayaking experience is required; guides provide instruction at the start.

What is included in the Dubrovnik sunset kayak tour?

The tour includes use of kayak equipment, snorkeling gear, snacks, a glass of local wine (sunset tour only), insurance, waterproof bags/barrels for belongings.

Where does the sea kayaking tour in Dubrovnik start?

The meeting point is in front of Nautika restaurant near Pile Gate; look for a guide in a blue T-shirt with logo and blue umbrella.

Is there an age limit for children on this kayaking trip?

The minimum age is 6 years old; children must paddle in a double kayak with an adult.

Can non-swimmers join this Dubrovnik kayak tour?

No; all participants must be able to swim for safety reasons.

Are there toilets available during the tour?

No toilets are available onsite or along the route; use facilities before arrival.

What should I bring or wear for sea kayaking in Dubrovnik?

Wear a bathing suit and shoes that can get wet; bring sunscreen, hat, towel, and minimal belongings due to limited space in waterproof bags/barrels.

What’s included

Your evening includes all kayak equipment (with child sizes if needed), life vests, snorkeling gear for exploring reefs at Betina cave beach, snacks like figs or local bites plus one glass of Croatian wine (for sunset tours). Your local guide leads throughout and provides waterproof storage for your things—just remember to show up early at Pile Gate ready to get wet since everything comes along in your kayak.