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.

Step-by-step itinerary

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.

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.

Options for this experience

3 options

Guide in English or Italian10:00 and 14:00

Guide in English or ItalianAvailable from 1 Jun 2027

Guide in English or ItalianAvailable from 1 Jun 2027

You pick the guide language when booking. Options with the same name differ in details you'll see when you pick a date.

You see the exact price of each option when you check availability.See dates & prices

Before you book

Days and timesMonday and TuesdayDepartures at 10:00 and 14:00Last departure this season: 21 Dec

AgesAdult (15 to 80 years) · Child (6 to 14 years) · Under 6: can't be included in the booking

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Easy physical levelPublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for back problems

Operated by Outdoor Portofino

Traveler reviews

4.81★★★★★★★★★★

85 verified traveler reviews

5 ★75

4 ★6

3 ★2

2 ★2

1 ★0

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English and Italian.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (6 to 14 years). Under 6: they can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24h before the start.

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.