Tenerife: Los Cristianos Kayak Tour with Dolphin & Turtle Spotting

Summary

Kayak from Los Cristianos to fish farms and caves with dolphin sightings

You’ll launch your kayak from Los Cristianos Beach alongside a small group and local guide, paddle past fish farms where dolphins often surface, snorkel in clear waters hoping for turtles, and drift into Cueva del Palma’s blue light—all at your own pace. Expect laughter, salt spray, and a fresh look at Tenerife’s wild side.

What’s the experience like?

We’d barely pushed off from Los Cristianos Beach when I realized how salty the Atlantic actually tastes. Our guide, Pablo, grinned as he handed me a paddle—he said something about “lucky mornings” for spotting dolphins. I didn’t quite believe him until a few minutes later, when a pod surfaced near the fish farm, their backs glinting in the late sun. It’s quieter out there than I expected; just the slap of paddles and Pablo’s voice drifting back with some story about Guaza mountain and its birds. The air smells like sunscreen and seaweed—familiar but somehow sharper here.

I kept looking for turtles (Pablo said they’re shy), but mostly saw flashes of silver fish under our kayak. When we stopped to snorkel, the water was colder than I thought it’d be—woke me right up. There’s this moment when you’re floating and all you hear is your own breath in the mask. A couple of us tried to name every fish we saw; I got maybe three right. Afterward, we paddled over to Cueva del Palma—the light inside turns everything turquoise for a second. Someone tried to take a selfie but dropped their paddle instead (we laughed so hard Pablo almost tipped his own kayak).

I still think about that view back toward Los Cristianos—the beach looks tiny from out there, almost like it belongs to someone else. The whole thing felt easy but real; no pressure to rush or perform. Photos came through later that night (I look ridiculous in half of them), but honestly, it’s that quiet moment floating above the reef that sticks with me most.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Guided kayak tour from Los Cristianos

• Arrive at office 30 minutes early
• Depart from Los Cristianos Beach
• Visit fish farm to see fish, turtles, dolphins
• Snorkel in guided areas
• Explore Cueva del Palma and crystalline waters
• View Guaza mountain and bird habitats

Top questions

What animals can you see on the Los Cristianos kayak tour?

You might spot dolphins, turtles, various fish species, and birds native to Tenerife during the kayak tour.

Where does the kayak tour start in Tenerife?

The tour departs from Los Cristianos Beach in southern Tenerife.

Is snorkeling included on this kayak excursion?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided and you can snorkel in areas marked by the guides.

Are photos included on the Tenerife kayak tour?

Yes, personalized photos are included (not group shots), sent after your trip.

What time does the tour depart?

Tours leave at 9:30 am and 12:30 pm; arrive at least 20–30 minutes early at their office.

Is this activity suitable for beginners or kids?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels but not recommended for people with reduced mobility or certain health conditions.

Can service animals join the kayak tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this excursion.

What’s included

Your day includes use of all kayaking and snorkeling equipment plus personalized photos taken during your adventure—no need to bring your own gear or camera worries. Just show up at the meeting point before departure time; everything else is sorted so you can focus on paddling out from Los Cristianos Beach into open water with your guide leading the way.