Lagos: Ponta da Piedade Kayak Tour & Catamaran Swim

Summary

Kayak through Ponta da Piedade’s sea caves then swim from a catamaran

You’ll paddle right into the heart of Ponta da Piedade’s sea caves with a local guide, starting from Lagos by catamaran. Expect laughter, cold splashes, quiet moments under wild cliffs—and time to swim or just float after kayaking. It’s not just scenery; it’s feeling part of Algarve’s coast for an afternoon.

What’s the experience like?

“You’ll want to keep your phone dry for this part,” our guide João grinned as we shuffled along the deck at Lagos Marina. I’d barely gotten used to the salty breeze before we were gliding out on this big, sturdy catamaran—music playing softly, everyone kind of awkwardly excited. João handed out life jackets and started telling us about the cliffs ahead—he called them “the old bones of Portugal.” I liked that. The air smelled like sunscreen and seaweed, which is honestly better than it sounds.

The first splash into the kayak was colder than I expected. My friend tried to steady us but we spun around once—João just laughed and said we’d get the hang of it. The water here has this weird glassy green color, and when you paddle close to those arches at Ponta da Piedade, you can hear your own voice echo back at you. João pointed out one rock that looked like an elephant (I didn’t see it at first), and he told us how fishermen used to hide in these caves during storms. There was a moment where everything went quiet except for paddles tapping and some gulls overhead—I still think about that silence.

After about an hour or so weaving between cliffs and little beaches (some only big enough for two people), we clambered back onto the catamaran—arms kind of wobbly but happy. Someone dared me to try the slide off the boat; I did, and swallowed half the Atlantic but it was worth it for how everyone cheered. We floated there for a while, sun on our faces, salt drying on our skin. The ride back felt slower somehow, like nobody wanted it to end yet. If you’re looking for a day trip from Lagos that actually feels like you’re part of this place—not just watching—it’s hard to beat this kayak tour.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayak tour and catamaran cruise

• Board catamaran at Lagos Marina
• Receive kayaking tuition onboard
• Catamaran transports to launch area
• Launch kayaks from catamaran
• Explore Ponta da Piedade caves by kayak
• Reboard catamaran with kayaks
• Swim and relax from catamaran
• Leisurely cruise back to Lagos Marina

Top questions

How long does the kayak tour last?

The full experience takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes including kayaking and swimming time.

Is there a guide with us during the kayak tour?

Yes, a professional local guide leads the group through the caves and along the coast.

Do I need previous kayaking experience?

No previous experience is needed; tuition is given onboard before launching.

Are children allowed on this tour?

Yes, children aged 5 and up can join if accompanied by an adult.

Is hotel pickup included?

No, you meet at Lagos Marina; hotel pickup is not included.

Can I swim during the tour?

Yes, after kayaking there’s time to swim or use the slide from the catamaran.

What language does the guide speak?

The tour may be operated by a multilingual guide.

What’s included

Your day includes all equipment for kayaking, guidance from a professional local guide throughout both water and land portions, local taxes covered in advance, plus time at sea to relax or swim from the catamaran before cruising back toward Lagos Marina together.