Tenerife: Turtle & Dolphin Kayaking with Snorkeling & Cave

Paddle into Turtle Bay off Tenerife's quiet coast and snorkel where dolphins actually show up

You paddle from a quiet beach into Turtle Bay, snorkel with turtles and dolphins in clear Atlantic water, float into the Lover's Cave, and return with a photo report of the day. The guide handles navigation and marine knowledge. You handle the paddle at your own pace. Includes all gear and a bilingual guide.

Step-by-step itinerary

Kayak tour to Turtle Bay and cave

• Board kayaks at Arenilla beach
• Kayak towards Turtle Bay
• Swim with turtles, dolphins, stingrays
• Visit the Cave of the Lover
• Enjoy views and tranquility
• Use snorkeling equipment
• Follow expert guide's commentary
• Receive photo report of tour

The experience

The water laps against the kayak hull before you've even pushed off from Arenilla beach. That sound (soft, close, real) is what tells you this isn't a crowded tour boat. You're in a kayak, just you and the guide and maybe a handful of others, heading out from Palm-Mar toward Turtle Bay. The paddle takes minutes, not hours. Within a short stretch you're in water so clear you can see the bottom, and that's when the marine life starts. Turtles move through the water like they own it, because they do. You'll see them from the kayak and slip in to snorkel alongside them, and the guide (English or Spanish, depending on who shows up that morning) will point out the stingrays gliding underneath and tell you which dolphins have been hanging around that week.

The route doesn't just chase animals. You stop at the Cave of the Lover (the locals call it the Palm-Mar cave) tucked into cliffs that rise straight out of the water. It's the kind of place that makes you understand why someone would name a cave after romance. You float there, catch your breath, look at the rock formations and the view back toward the coast. The kayaking itself is easy. The guide says "less rowing, more enjoyment" and means it. You're not fighting the paddle or racing anywhere. The whole day is built around pausing, looking, swimming, moving on.

Everything you need comes with the tour: kayak, snorkeling gear (goggles, vest, skirt), and a guide who knows where the animals are and what they're doing. At the end you get a photo report (actual pictures of you in the water, the turtles, the cave), so you're not just remembering it, you're holding proof. The activity works for families and for solo travelers who want to be in the water without the logistics of renting equipment separately or figuring out where to go. Public transport gets you to Palm-Mar if you don't have a car.

What’s included

• Kayak and snorkeling equipment (goggles, life vest, skirt).
• expert guide in English or Spanish.
• access to Turtle Bay, the Lover's Cave, and snorkeling spots.
• photo report of your encounters with marine life.

Before you book

Days and timesDaily · 10:00 and 11:00

Ages12 to 65 years · 6 to 11 years · Under 6 — No ticket type: can't be added to a booking

Meeting point and pickupNo pickup · ends where it startsMeeting point, per the operator: “Coming through the main avenue, past the second Super Diplo supermarket, in front of the taxi rank.”

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Moderate physical levelPublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Kayaking Shingi Adventures

Is this one for you?Book this if you want to see turtles and dolphins without arranging your own boat, gear, or navigation. The guide handles where to go and what to look for, leaving you free to paddle and swim at an easy pace.

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Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English and Spanish.

Can children come?

6 to 11 years. Under 6: no ticket type, they can't be added to a booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24h before the start.

What's the group size?

The tour description mentions small groups but does not state a maximum number. Check with the operator for current group limits.

Do I need kayaking experience?

No. The tour is described as easy and suitable for families and nature-loving adventurers alike. Moderate physical fitness is recommended.

Will I definitely see turtles and dolphins?

Turtles and dolphins are common in Turtle Bay, but wildlife sightings are never guaranteed. The guide will take you to the best spots based on current conditions.

What's included in the tour?

Kayak, snorkeling equipment (goggles, vest, skirt), expert guide in English or Spanish, and a photo report of the day.

Can I do this if I'm not a strong swimmer?

The tour includes snorkeling in shallow, clear water and a life vest. Moderate physical fitness is recommended. Check with the operator if you have concerns about swimming ability.

How do I get to Palm-Mar?

Public transportation options are available nearby. The operator can advise on the best route from your location.

What should I bring?

Bring sunscreen, a towel, and a change of clothes. All water gear and safety equipment are provided.