Dubrovnik: Sunset Sea Kayaking & Snorkelling with Wine

Summary

Kayak under Dubrovnik’s city walls, snorkel caves, sunset over Lokrum

You’ll paddle beneath Dubrovnik’s ancient city walls, snorkel in a hidden cave near Lokrum Island, and share a laugh or two with your guide before ending with a bottle of local wine on the beach at sunset. Expect salty skin, tired arms, and one of those sunsets that sticks with you long after you’ve left.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I noticed was the slap of water against the kayaks below Pile Gate — not exactly quiet, but kind of calming once you settle in. Our guide, Luka, handed out waterproof bags and made sure everyone had their lifejackets on right (I needed a second try). There’s a weird little passage to get down to the beach — honestly I would’ve missed it if someone from our group hadn’t waved me over. The old stone walls above us felt huge, almost close enough to touch when we pushed off. You can smell salt and something faintly herbal in the air — maybe wild sage? Or just my sunscreen.

Paddling around Dubrovnik’s city walls is one of those things that sounds touristy but feels different when you’re actually there. Luka pointed out where Game of Thrones filmed something (I nodded like I remembered the scene). We headed toward Lokrum Island, which looked closer than it was — arms started burning halfway but nobody wanted to admit it. When we stopped at Betina cave for snorkeling, the water was colder than I expected and so clear you could see pebbles ten feet down. Someone tried to teach me how to say “hvala” properly (thank you) but I probably butchered it; Li laughed anyway.

The sun started dipping behind Lokrum as we paddled back. It got quieter except for the splash of paddles and a couple of gulls fighting over something near the rocks. Luka handed out tiny bottles of local wine at the end — not fancy, but sitting there on that little beach with wet hair and salty skin, it tasted pretty good. I still think about that view back toward the old town all lit up. If you’re late they really don’t wait, by the way — two people missed us at the start and had to watch from above.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sunset sea kayaking and snorkeling

• Arrive 20 minutes early
• Meet at small beach under Pile gate
• Receive safety instructions from guide
• Start kayaking from Pile bay
• Paddle towards Lokrum island
• Swim and snorkel in Betina cave
• Paddle alongside Old Town city walls
• Return to starting point
• Enjoy a small bottle of local wine

Top questions

Where does the Dubrovnik sunset sea kayaking tour start?

The tour starts at the small beach under Pile Gate, next to restaurant Orhan. Follow signs through a small passage around the wall to reach the kayaks.

How long is the kayaking route around Dubrovnik?

The route is about 4 km and takes roughly 2 hours including breaks for swimming and snorkeling.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included in your booking.

Can non-swimmers join this Dubrovnik sea kayaking tour?

Non-swimmers can join if sea conditions are safe; guides may reschedule or refund if not.

What happens if I arrive late for the tour?

The group cannot wait for latecomers and no refund is possible if you miss departure time.

Are children allowed on this kayaking trip?

Children must be at least 4 years old and accompanied by an adult; small children can sit in the middle of a double kayak.

Is lunch included on this Dubrovnik kayaking tour?

No lunch is included but you receive bottled water during the trip and a small bottle of local wine at sunset.

What should I bring for sea kayaking in Dubrovnik?

You should bring swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and any personal items you want kept dry (waterproof bag provided).

What’s included

Your evening includes use of sit-on-top double kayaks with all safety gear, bottled water to keep hydrated while paddling along Dubrovnik’s coast, waterproof bags for your belongings so nothing gets soaked, snorkeling equipment for exploring Betina cave near Lokrum Island, professional guidance throughout from a local expert who knows every corner here—and finally a small bottle of local wine as you watch sunset from shore before heading back into town.