Lisbon to Arrabida: Kayak & Snorkeling Day Trip with Pickup

Summary

Arrabida’s turquoise waters caves and wild beaches from Lisbon

You’ll paddle crystal-clear waters in Arrabida on this kayak & snorkeling day trip from Lisbon—with all gear provided and a local guide leading you through caves, hidden beaches, and quiet coves. Expect laughter, salty air, simple food on warm sand—and maybe a moment or two that sticks with you long after you’re back in the city.

What’s the experience like?

We met up just outside the Lisbon zoo, still a bit groggy from the city’s morning buzz. Our guide, Rui, was already cracking jokes as he loaded our group into this cheerful blue van—he called it “the pirate ship.” Crossing the big red bridge (it really does look like San Francisco’s), I realized how quickly Lisbon turns into wild green hills. Someone in the back started humming along to Rui’s playlist—mostly old Portuguese pop and some random sea shanties.

Pulled up at Praia do Creiro, sun already strong enough that I regretted not packing more sunscreen. The wetsuits felt weird at first (sort of cold and rubbery), but once we dragged the kayaks down to the water, I forgot about it. The sea here is this unreal blue-green—I kept dipping my hand in just to feel how clear it was. Paddling along the cliffs, Rui pointed out these little caves where fishermen used to hide out. We tried one—echoey and cool inside, smelled faintly of salt and something earthy. At one point I nearly tipped us over laughing when my friend tried to pronounce “Arrábida”—Rui just grinned and said we’d get it by lunchtime.

The snorkeling part was quieter than I expected. Water cold at first shock but then you get used to it; saw a starfish clinging to a rock and a flash of something that might’ve been an octopus (or maybe just wishful thinking). My mask fogged up halfway through but honestly didn’t care—just floating there with sunlight flickering down felt good after all that paddling. Lunch was simple: sandwiches on the sand, still dripping wet, everyone swapping stories about which cave or jump freaked them out most. Then Rui packed everything up while we lay there half-asleep in the sun.

On the drive back to Lisbon I watched the hills fade behind us through smudged van windows. Still thinking about that stretch of silent water inside the cave—how cool and safe it felt for a minute. Not sure if my arms will forgive me tomorrow but yeah, worth it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayak and snorkeling adventure in Arrabida

• Meet in Lisbon by the zoo
• Travel by van crossing Golden Gate bridge
• Arrive at Praia do Creiro in Arrabida
• Receive wetsuit and snorkeling gear
• Kayak through waters and explore caves
• Discover hidden beaches and try cliff jumping
• Swim and snorkel spotting marine life
• Relax and eat at the beach
• Return to Lisbon by van

Top questions

Is pickup included for this kayak & snorkeling tour?

Yes, pickup is included from near Lisbon Zoo before heading to Arrabida.

How long is the drive from Lisbon to Arrabida?

The drive takes about 45 minutes depending on traffic.

Are wetsuits and snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, wetsuits, snorkel masks, water shoes, life vests, helmets, kayaks, paddles, and waterproof bags are all included.

Can beginners join this kayaking trip?

Yes, it's suitable for all fitness levels but not recommended for those with certain health conditions.

Where does the tour start and end?

The tour starts and ends near Lisbon Zoo—the same meeting spot.

Is lunch included on this Arrabida kayak day trip?

No formal lunch is provided but there's time to relax and eat on the beach; bring your own snacks or buy nearby.

What kind of wildlife can you see while snorkeling?

You might spot starfish, octopus, cuttlefish and other sea life in Arrabida's waters.

Do I need previous kayaking experience?

No prior experience needed; guides give instructions before starting out.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup near Lisbon Zoo by van with your local guide; all kayaking equipment like wetsuits, snorkel masks, water shoes, life vests and helmets; plus waterproof bags for your things before returning you back to your starting point in Lisbon at day's end.