Kayaking in Gran Canaria: hidden bays and beach time

Paddle to remote beaches and snorkel in the coves you reach by water

Guided kayaking activity in Gran Canaria where you paddle double kayaks from El Pajar beach to Montaña Arena, stopping at Los Militares archaeological site and hidden bays along the way. The trip lasts around four hours and includes kayak, paddle, life jacket, waterproof bag, picnic, snorkeling gear, bottled water and snacks; a live guide speaks English and Spanish. Children from age 10 are welcome when accompanied by an adult, and the activity suits all fitness levels.

The Experience

You meet at El Pajar beach, where the guide explains how to row and balance in a double kayak before you push off into the water. The route heads toward Montaña Arena, a beach accessible only by sea, with a short stop at Los Militares—an archaeological site where you learn about the aboriginal people who once lived on the island. The paddle to Montaña Arena takes the morning, and the return journey back to El Pajar runs another 45 to 60 minutes; if conditions are right, you might spot sea turtles on the way back.

Once you reach Montaña Arena, the day opens up. You have free time to snorkel in the water, play beach games like frisbee or beach tennis, sunbathe on the sand, or feed the local lizards while you eat the picnic the guide brings—chocolate, fruit, biscuits, nuts and water. The beach is quiet and rarely crowded because getting there requires a kayak. Snorkeling gear is included, so you can explore the coves without renting or buying anything extra.

The activity is built for families and mixed fitness levels. Children from age 10 can join if an adult paddles with them in the double kayak. The guide stays with the group throughout, speaking English or Spanish depending on who is paddling. The trip runs subject to weather; if conditions turn poor, you can reschedule for another date or receive a full refund. Insurance is included in the price.

What’s included

• Kayak, paddle, life jacket and waterproof bag.
• bottled water and snacks.
• picnic with chocolate, fruit, biscuits and nuts.
• snorkeling gear.
• a live guide speaking English or Spanish.
• picture report of the day.
• and insurances.

Good to know

Easy physical level

Operated by MOJO PICON AVENTURA

Is this one for you?Book this if you're paddling with family or a small group and want a beach day that doesn't feel rushed—the remote location and four-hour window mean you actually have time to snorkel, play and rest instead of moving between crowded stops.

Traveler reviews

4.00★★★★★★★★★★

22 verified traveler reviews

5 ★14

4 ★3

3 ★0

2 ★1

1 ★4

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What's the paddle distance and how long does the kayaking actually take?

The route from El Pajar to Montaña Arena takes the morning, and the return paddle takes 45 to 60 minutes. The full activity runs around four hours from start to finish, including the stop at Los Militares and free time on the beach.

Can I bring my child, and do they need kayaking experience?

Children from age 10 can join when accompanied by an adult; they paddle together in a double kayak. No experience is needed—the guide explains how to row and balance before you leave the beach, and the activity suits all fitness levels.

What happens at Los Militares, and is it a long stop?

Los Militares is an archaeological site where the guide shares information about the aboriginal people who lived on Gran Canaria. It's a brief stop during the paddle to Montaña Arena, not a lengthy visit.

Is snorkeling gear included, and what's the water like for snorkeling?

Snorkeling is included in the activity, and you have free time at Montaña Arena to snorkel in the coves and hidden bays around the beach. The guide provides the gear as part of the package.

What if the weather is bad on the day I book?

The activity is subject to favorable weather conditions. If poor weather forces a cancellation, you can choose an alternative date or receive a full refund.