Jávea: Kayak & Snorkel Excursion to Cala Granadella Caves

Summary

Kayak the wild coves of Jávea with sea caves snorkeling and local stories

You’ll kayak from Cala Granadella along Jávea’s dramatic coastline, stopping to snorkel inside glowing blue caves and explore hidden coves only locals talk about. Friendly guides keep things relaxed and safe, plus there’s time for snacks and laughter on the water. If you want a day where salt lingers on your skin and you remember what real quiet sounds like, this is it.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what the water smells like early at Cala Granadella? Kind of salty-sweet, with a hint of sunscreen in the air — that’s how our morning started. Our guide, Marta, handed out life jackets and tried to teach us how not to paddle in circles (I failed for a good ten minutes). The kayaks felt wobbly at first but after a few strokes it was almost meditative, just the sound of paddles and this weird little bird calling from somewhere behind the rocks. I’d never seen water so clear — you could spot pebbles deep below even before we reached Cala Caló, which they call Jávea’s “secret cove.”

We stopped there to snorkel — I hesitated because caves make me nervous, but Marta swore it was safe. She was right; inside, everything turned blue and echoey. Someone laughed underwater (you can actually hear that), and I swear a fish stared back at me through my mask. The next stop was Cova del Llop Marí. The rocks looked rough enough to scrape your knees if you weren’t careful. There’s this electric-blue glow inside the cave that doesn’t really show up in photos — you have to see it for yourself. I got sand everywhere but didn’t care.

After that we paddled past Isla del Descubridor and skirted Ambolo beach (apparently it’s nudist — didn’t expect that). You could just make out Cabo la Nao far off in the haze. The support boat drifted nearby just in case someone got tired or needed help, which made me feel better about drifting behind everyone else for a bit. We circled back towards Granadella with arms like noodles and sand still stuck between my toes. The guides were patient — even when I dropped my paddle twice getting out.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayak and snorkeling along Jávea coast

• Meet guides at Cala Granadella
• Receive kayak, life jacket, and paddle
• Get water and energy bar
• Learn kayak handling basics
• Kayak to Cala Caló cove
• Stop and snorkel in Cala Caló caves
• Kayak to Cova del Llop Marí
• Snorkel in electric blue waters
• Cross island of the discoverer
• View Ambolo beach and Cabo la Nao
• Circle island and return to Cala Granadella

Top questions

How long is the kayak excursion in Jávea?

The total time on the water is around 2–3 hours including stops for snorkeling and breaks at coves.

Is snorkeling equipment included on this tour?

Yes, all snorkeling gear is provided by the guides as part of your booking.

Where does the kayak tour start?

The excursion begins at Cala Granadella, one of Spain’s best-known beaches near Jávea.

Are there support boats during the tour?

Yes, a support boat accompanies the group for safety throughout the excursion.

Is this kayak trip suitable for beginners?

Yes, guides explain basic kayak handling before departure and keep an eye on everyone during the route.

Are snacks or drinks included?

You’ll get bottled water and an energy bar included with your booking.

Can children join this kayaking & snorkeling tour?

The activity is suitable for most ages; infants can ride in a pram or stroller at the starting area.

Is Cala Caló really a secret cove?

Cala Caló is less known than other beaches around Jávea and feels secluded compared to busier spots.

What’s included

Your day includes all kayaking gear (life jacket, paddle), bottled water, an energy bar snack, use of snorkeling equipment with masks provided by local guides trained in rescue and first aid, waterproof bags for valuables, mobile cases if needed, access to a support boat throughout the trip for extra peace of mind—and even photos taken by your guide so you don’t have to worry about your phone getting wet.