Portofino: Kayak & Snorkel Tour with Lighthouse Swim

Kayak along Portofino’s coast, swim by the lighthouse, taste Ligurian flavors

You’ll paddle from Paraggi Bay along Portofino’s dramatic coast with a local guide, passing landmarks like San Giorgio Church and the lighthouse. Swim or snorkel in clear water, then unwind on the beach with organic Ligurian wine and traditional food. This kayak tour is relaxed but full of small surprises—perfect if you want to see Portofino from a different angle.

What’s included

• Your day includes all kayaking equipment—kayak, paddle, lifejacket—and guiding from an experienced local instructor.
• If you book the snorkeling option (in summer), all snorkel gear is provided too.
• After paddling along Portofino’s coast and swimming near the lighthouse, you’ll relax on the beach with organic Ligurian wine and traditional food before heading back refreshed.

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Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayak tour along Portofino coast

• Meet at Niasca Bay
• Paddle from Paraggi to Portofino
• Explore Olivetta and Lighthouse
• Swim near the lighthouse
• Enjoy beach with local wine and food

The Experience

We’d already been paddling for maybe twenty minutes when our guide Matteo pointed to a little cove below the Church of San Giorgio. The sea was that weird blue-green you only get around Portofino, and I kept getting distracted by the way sunlight flickered off the paddles. Matteo told us stories about smugglers hiding out here centuries ago—he made it sound like he actually knew them, which cracked me up. There was this salty breeze mixed with pine needles, and I realized my arms were starting to ache in a good way. I didn’t expect to feel so far from everything so quickly.

When we rounded the point toward the lighthouse, it got quieter except for gulls yelling at each other overhead. Matteo said something about dolphins sometimes showing up (no luck for us), but honestly just floating there in front of those cliffs felt wild enough. The water was cold but super clear—I could see tiny fish darting past when we stopped for a swim. If you pick the snorkeling tour, you get to jump in with a mask and see what’s under the surface too; it’s not tropical colors or anything but it feels real and alive down there.

I’m still laughing about my attempt at “focaccia di Recco”—Li laughed when I tried to say it in Italian while we sat on the beach later, sharing bites and sipping this organic white wine they brought out. It tasted like sunshine and salt somehow (I know that sounds cheesy). The sand stuck to my feet all afternoon. We watched boats drift past Portofino’s harbor while everyone just sort of slowed down for a bit—nobody seemed in any rush to leave.

Top questions

Where does the Portofino kayak tour start?

The meeting point is Niasca Bay, via Duca degli Abruzzi 62 Portofino, about twenty minutes before your activity begins.

Is snorkeling included in every kayak tour?

No, snorkeling is only included if you choose the Kayak & Snorkeling Tour option during summer months.

Do I need kayaking experience?

No previous experience is needed; all skill levels are welcome on this tour.

Are guides included on this day trip?

Yes, a professional local kayak instructor and marine guide lead each group.

What should I bring for the kayak tour?

Bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottle, bathing suit, comfortable shoes or neoprene boots, and a towel.

Is lunch provided on this tour?

You’ll enjoy organic local wine and traditional Ligurian food on the beach after kayaking.

Can I request a private kayak tour?

Yes, private tours are available for an additional fee of €150.

Are lockers available at the base?

The nautical base has lockers for customers if available; avoid bringing valuables as staff aren’t responsible for loss.