Tenerife: Kayak & Snorkel Tour with Turtles & Dolphins

Summary

Kayak the southern coast of Tenerife and meet sea turtles up close

You’ll paddle beneath Tenerife’s wild southern cliffs by kayak, guided by a local who knows every cove. Snorkel with sea turtles in clear water (gear included), then watch for dolphins on your way back to Los Cristianos beach. Expect laughter, salt spray, maybe a wobbly climb back into your kayak—and memories you’ll keep replaying long after you dry off.

What’s the experience like?

We’d barely pushed our kayaks off Los Cristianos beach when the ocean sort of swallowed the city noise behind us. The cliffs at PalmMar look even bigger from the water, especially when you’re paddling right under them—felt a bit small, honestly. Our guide, Marta, kept pointing out little caves in the rocks and telling stories about how some locals used to fish here before sunrise. I tried to imagine it but mostly just heard my own paddle splashing and some gulls overhead. The salt spray stuck to my arms and tasted sharp.

We stopped at this quiet spot where Marta said turtles usually hang around. I’ll admit, I was nervous about snorkeling (I’m not exactly graceful in fins), but she handed me the mask and just grinned—“Don’t worry, they’re curious.” And yeah, after a few minutes floating there, one actually glided past my elbow. Its shell had these weird greenish patterns that looked almost painted on. I think I laughed underwater? Hard to tell with a snorkel jammed in your mouth. There were other fish too—little flashes of silver darting below—but it’s the turtle that sticks in my head.

After about half an hour in the water (which felt both quick and endless), we climbed back into our kayaks. My legs were wobbly but nobody cared; someone else dropped their paddle and we all cracked up. On the way back toward Los Cristianos, Marta spotted dolphins further out—just dark shapes at first, then leaping for real. She whistled at them like she knew them personally. Maybe she does? Anyway, that’s when I realized how far we’d come from shore—the cliffs looked different now in late sun, almost golden.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayak and snorkel with marine life

• Start kayaking from Los Cristianos beach
• Head to PalmMar rocks and caves
• Snorkel with sea turtles for 30 minutes
• Observe various fish and marine animals
• Continue canoeing around PalmMar area
• Look out for dolphins during the trip
• Return to starting point after 2 hours

Top questions

Where does the kayak tour in Tenerife start?

The tour starts from Los Cristianos beach on Tenerife’s southern coast.

How long is the kayaking and snorkeling tour?

The entire experience lasts about 2 hours including kayaking and 30 minutes of snorkeling.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, all snorkeling equipment is included as part of the tour.

Can children join this kayak & snorkel tour?

The minimum age for participants is 6 years old.

Will we definitely see turtles or dolphins during the trip?

Turtle sightings are very likely at PalmMar; dolphins are often seen but not guaranteed.

Is this Tenerife kayak tour suitable for beginners?

A moderate level of fitness is recommended but no advanced skills are required; guides assist throughout.

Are guides present during both kayaking and snorkeling parts?

Yes, a professional guide leads both activities and stays with you during snorkeling.

Does this day trip include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is included; travelers meet at Los Cristianos beach.

What’s included

Your day includes use of all snorkeling equipment plus a professional local guide who leads both kayaking along Tenerife’s southern cliffs and guided snorkeling with turtles near PalmMar—just show up ready to paddle and swim before returning to Los Cristianos beach together.