Dubrovnik: Sea Kayaking & Snorkeling Tour to Betina Cave

Summary

Kayak Dubrovnik’s coast, pass city walls & snorkel hidden caves

You’ll paddle along Dubrovnik’s ancient city walls, glide past Lokrum island with a local guide leading the way, and snorkel in clear waters at Betina cave. Expect laughter between strokes and quiet moments under stone cliffs — all gear included so you just show up ready for salt and sun.

What’s the experience like?

I thought I knew what blue meant before paddling out from Pile bay in Dubrovnik, but that Adriatic color just hits different — like someone turned the saturation up. Our guide, Ana, handed me a paddle with a grin and warned us not to race each other (which of course we immediately did). The old stone walls looked even bigger from the water. There was this salty smell mixed with sunscreen and something floral I still can’t place — maybe from Lokrum island? Anyway, we drifted pretty close to it, and Ana pointed out some cormorants sunning themselves on the rocks. She told us a bit about the history of the city walls; honestly, I was more focused on not splashing my seatmate too much.

The rhythm of paddling is weirdly calming once you stop overthinking it. We reached Betina cave after maybe 40 minutes — time gets slippery when you’re watching sunlight flicker under your kayak. Getting out onto those pebbles is awkward (bring water shoes if you have them), but the snorkeling was worth it. The water was chilly at first but so clear I could see tiny fish darting around my toes. Someone found a sea urchin shell and passed it around; felt almost fragile in my palm. There were kids laughing somewhere behind me, echo bouncing off the rocks.

On the way back to Pile bay, arms starting to feel that “good tired,” Ana shared a story about her grandmother swimming here as a kid — made me wonder how many people have seen these same cliffs from this angle. It’s not super long (about two hours total), but that little slice of sea air and light sticks with you. I still think about that view under the city walls when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sea kayaking and snorkeling tour

• Meet near Pile gate
• Receive kayak and snorkeling gear
• Start kayaking from Pile bay
• Pass by city walls and forts
• Kayak past old town and Lokrum island
• Stop for snorkeling at Betina cave
• Return kayaking to Pile bay

Top questions

How long does the Dubrovnik sea kayaking tour last?

The guided sea kayaking tour lasts about 2 hours from start to finish.

Is snorkeling gear included on the tour?

Yes, snorkeling masks are provided for use during the break at Betina cave.

Where does the kayaking tour start in Dubrovnik?

The tour starts near Pile gate at Pile bay in Dubrovnik.

Do I need previous kayaking experience?

No previous experience is needed, but travelers should have moderate fitness and be comfortable on the water.

What should I bring for the sea kayaking tour?

Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and water shoes or flip-flops for pebbly beaches.

Are single kayaks available?

No, double-seater kayaks are provided by default; solo travelers will be paired together.

Is there an age limit for children on this tour?

The minimum age is 8 years old for their own seat; children aged 5-7 can sit between parents free of charge.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is included; guests meet at Pile bay 15 minutes before departure time.

What’s included

Your day includes a professional local guide leading you from Pile bay past Dubrovnik’s city walls toward Lokrum island and Betina cave. All kayak equipment is provided — including double kayaks, paddles, waterproof barrels for your things, bottled water for each guest, snorkeling masks for exploring underwater at Betina cave, plus insurance throughout your adventure.