From Granadella or Portitxol you paddle with a guide to caves and coves you cannot reach by land, with snorkelling stops along the way. The town's best-rated operator has more than a thousand glowing reviews, and the trips are also a clever way to dodge the summer crush at the car parks.
Which routes and caves do the trips visit?
Trips set off from two spots. From Granadella you paddle to the sea cave Cova del Llop Marí, and from Portitxol you paddle past the backdrop of white and blue fishermen's cottages and the little island just offshore. At Granadella only guided trips are allowed, because operators need a municipal permit to run there; there is no standalone kayak hire. Cala Ambolo also belongs to that kayaking perspective: the cove can nowadays only be reached from the sea, since the route there overland is closed off due to the risk of rockfall.
When is the kayaking season?
Commercial kayaking stops until the thirtieth of June, because the protected European shag is still nesting until then. The season only opens officially in early July, when trips can be booked again. A guided trip lasts two and a half to three hours and costs from fifty euros per person, including kayak, paddles, life jacket, snorkelling gear, guide and insurance. Anyone planning an early summer holiday should factor in that late start.
Can children come along too?
Yes, there is a separate family trip from the Arenal that lasts about three hours. The operator sets no minimum age but does recommend basic swimming ability. Up to sixteen people join each departure, led by certified guides. Snorkel set, water shoes and life jackets are included, so there is no need to organise any equipment. That makes the outing on the water a manageable adventure for the youngest crew members too.
