Sorrento: Paddle Boarding Tour to Bagni Regina Giovanna

Summary

Paddle past Roman ruins & emerald pools on Sorrento’s coast

You’ll paddle from Sorrento’s Marina Grande with a small group and local instructor, glide past ancient Roman ruins at Punta del Capo, and slip into the emerald waters of Bagni Regina Giovanna for swimming or exploring. There’s time for photos, laughter (maybe even at your paddling skills), and quiet moments soaking up history you can actually touch.

What’s the experience like?

“You ever tried standing up on one of these before?” That’s what Paolo asked as he handed me the paddle, grinning like he already knew the answer. We met at Marina Grande in Sorrento just after sunrise — the air still smelled salty and a bit like coffee from the little bars opening up nearby. Our guide gave us a quick lesson (I was honestly relieved it wasn’t too serious), then we wobbled out onto the boards. I could hear someone laughing behind me — maybe at my technique, maybe just because it felt good to be out there.

The sea was calm, almost glassy, and you could see right down to the rocks below. As we paddled toward Punta del Capo, Paolo pointed out where the Roman villa sits above the cliffs. He told us about Pollio Felice and how people used to swim here centuries ago — I didn’t expect ancient history to feel so close. Getting through that narrow gap in the cliff into Bagni della Regina Giovanna was trickier than I thought; my board scraped a little and Paolo winked, “Everyone does that.” The water inside was this wild green color, almost glowing under the stone arch. Some folks jumped in right away but I just sat for a second, feet dangling, trying to take it all in.

I wandered around the old villa ruins barefoot — stones warm from the sun already, bits of mosaic peeking out between weeds. There were swallows darting overhead and someone snapped a photo of me looking more relaxed than I probably ever do at home. We had time to swim or just float around; honestly, I lost track of time here. On the way back to Marina Grande, everyone was quieter except for Paolo humming some tune I couldn’t place. Still think about that emerald pool sometimes when things get noisy.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Paddle boarding to Bagni Regina Giovanna

• Attend safety and technique lesson
• Depart from Marina Grande di Sorrento
• Paddle to Punta del Capo Roman villa
• Explore Bagni della Regina Giovanna ruins
• Swim in natural heart-shaped pool
• Take photographs and freely explore villa
• Return leisurely to Marina Grande

Top questions

Is this paddle boarding tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, all skill levels are welcome and a certified instructor gives a short lesson before starting.

Where does the paddle boarding tour start?

The tour begins at Marina Grande in Sorrento.

What is included in the paddle boarding experience?

The tour includes equipment, bottled water, life jacket, dry bags, shower access, locker use, and a certified instructor.

How long does it take to reach Bagni Regina Giovanna by paddle board?

The trip from Marina Grande to Bagni della Regina Giovanna is leisurely and allows time for stops; exact timing may vary with group pace.

Can you swim during the tour?

Yes, there is time to swim in the natural pool at Bagni della Regina Giovanna.

Are public transportation options available nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near Marina Grande.

Is this tour recommended for people with heart conditions?

No, it’s not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes all paddle boarding equipment (rigid board and life jacket), bottled water for refreshment along the way, dry bags for your belongings, access to showers and lockers at Marina Grande before or after paddling out with your certified instructor guiding every step — just bring yourself and some curiosity.