Kayaking in Dana Point: Sea Cave & Sea Lions

Paddle past sea lions, then scramble into a sea cave on the rocks

A 3-hour kayaking and hiking activity in Dana Point where you paddle through the harbor viewing sea lions, then walk a coastal trail to explore a hidden sea cave and tide pools. An expert local guide leads the outing in English, Spanish, Portuguese or Arabic, and kayak rental is included. Children from age 6 are welcome, and the activity suits all fitness levels, though ocean and tide conditions can shift the difficulty of the hike portion on any given day.

The experience

You start by paddling a double kayak through Dana Point Harbor, where sea lions lounge on the docks and the California cliffs frame the water. The guide points out the local wildlife and shares the geography and history of the area as you move through the harbor. After the kayaking portion, you leave the water and head onto a rocky coastal trail that climbs toward a hidden sea cave.

The trail itself changes with the tide. At lower tides, it is a straightforward walk over coastal rocks. At higher tides, you step over larger boulders, cross slippery surfaces, and may wade through shallow water. The guide reads the conditions and adjusts the route, so the hike can feel more or less adventurous depending on when you go. Wear water shoes or sturdy footwear you don't mind getting wet, and bring a change of clothes if you want one. Once you reach the sea cave, you explore the rock formations and tide pools, taking in the coastal scenery the whole way.

What’s included

• Kayak rental for one hour.
• expert local guide in English, Spanish, Portuguese or Arabic.
• sea lion viewing in the harbor.
• access to the hidden sea cave and tide pools on the coastal trail.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 10:00

Book up to1d before

AgesAdult (17 to 64 years) · Senior (65 to 85 years) · Youth (6 to 16 years) · Under 6: can't be booked

GroupUp to 20

Live guideEnglish, Spanish, Portuguese and Arabic

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Low physical effortNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Rafiki Tours

Is this one for you?The activity suits small groups and families with children from age 6 who want to paddle and hike in one outing. The tide conditions mean the coastal trail can be more or less challenging depending on the day, so pick a time that matches your comfort with rocky, potentially wet terrain.

Traveler reviews

4.78★★★★★★★★★★

40 verified traveler reviews

5 ★37

4 ★1

3 ★0

2 ★0

1 ★2

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English, Spanish, Portuguese and Arabic.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (6 to 16 years). Children under 6 can't be included in the 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 24 h before the start.

What is the sea cave like when you get there?

The sea cave is a hidden rock formation you reach by hiking the coastal trail. It opens onto tide pools and the ocean, so you can explore the rocks and marine life in the pools at the base of the cliffs.

What happens if the tide is high when I go?

At higher tides, the coastal trail involves stepping over larger rocks, walking on slippery surfaces, and crossing shallow water, so the hike feels more adventurous and requires sturdy footwear you don't mind getting wet.

Is the kayak rental included in the price?

Yes, the 1-hour double kayak rental is included in the activity fee.

What should I bring or wear?

Wear water shoes or sturdy footwear you don't mind getting wet. Bring a change of clothes if you prefer to have dry clothes after the activity, since the hike can involve water crossings and wet surfaces.