Cabo de Gata: Kayak & Snorkel Tour with Support Boat

Summary

Kayak along volcanic cliffs then snorkel clear coves in Cabo de Gata

You’ll paddle along Cabo de Gata’s volcanic coastline with a local guide, stopping to hear stories and swim in crystal-clear coves. Gear is provided (even snacks), plus there’s always a support boat nearby so you can just focus on enjoying the sea air and those wild rocky views.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it’s like to paddle right up to those wild, jagged cliffs you see in photos of Cabo de Gata? I hadn’t really planned to get that close — but there we were, early-ish morning, squeezing into life jackets while our guide (I think his name was Paco?) cracked jokes about how “the sea tells you if you’re awake.” It smelled like sunscreen and salt and something green I couldn’t place. The kayaks were lined up on the sand, all faded colors from years of sun.

I was a bit nervous at first (my arms aren’t exactly athletic), but Paco gave us this quick rundown on paddling — nothing fancy, just enough so we wouldn’t spin in circles. We set off slow, hugging the coast. You could hear the scrape of paddles and sometimes the wind would shift and you’d catch someone laughing behind you. Every so often Paco would point out some weird rock formation or tell us a story about pirates hiding in these coves. He had this way of making even geology sound interesting — though I probably butchered the names when I tried repeating them later.

Halfway through, we stopped at a cove where the water looked almost fake — super clear, kind of cold when you first jump in. Snorkeling there felt like being dropped into an aquarium; little fish darting around and sunlight flickering over rocks below. Someone handed me a granola bar (included, which was nice because I forgot snacks) and we just floated for a bit. I still think about how quiet it got once everyone put their heads underwater — just your own breathing and that muffled world.

The way back was easier somehow — maybe because I wasn’t worried anymore or maybe because Paco kept shouting encouragements from his kayak. There was a support boat nearby too, which honestly made me relax more than I expected. By the time we hit shore again my shoulders were tired but it felt good, like we’d actually done something real together out there.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayak and snorkel in Cabo de Gata

• Receive kayak equipment
• Attend kayak handling explanation
• Start kayak route
• Stop to observe marine features
• Listen to park anecdotes
• Stop for snorkeling
• Return to starting point

Top questions

Is this kayak & snorkel tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, the route is simple and adapted for all levels, with guides explaining everything before starting.

Are children allowed on the Cabo de Gata kayak tour?

Infants must sit on an adult’s lap; otherwise suitable for most ages and fitness levels.

What equipment is included for kayaking and snorkeling?

You get a life jacket, dry bag, paddle, bottled water, energy bar, and photos from the day.

How long do we spend snorkeling during the tour?

There’s a longer stop halfway through specifically for snorkeling and relaxing in the cove.

Is there any safety support during the trip?

A support boat accompanies the group whenever needed for extra safety.

Where does the kayak tour start in Cabo de Gata?

The tour begins at an accessible beach inside Cabo de Gata park; exact location provided after booking.

What’s included

Your day includes all kayaking gear (life jacket, paddle, dry bag), bottled water to keep you hydrated under that Andalusian sun, an energy bar for snacking after swimming or snorkeling in those clear coves, plus photos from your adventure — and there’s always a support boat close by if needed before returning to shore together.