Kayaking in Barcelona

The simple joy of kayaking places you in the serenity of nature but also feeds your sense of adventure. In Barcelona, the surrounding coastal regions offer some of the most pristine locations for all-day kayaking adventures and a quick city escape.

The crystal clear water of the Mediterranean Sea and the soaring mountains of the rugged coastline create an idyllic setting where your troubles can melt away and adventure can begin. A kayaking tour in Barcelona is the perfect getaway to recharge and relax.

Here's our traveler's guide on kayaking tours, one of the most exhilarating outdoor activities in Barcelona.

Which kayaking tour in Barcelona should you choose?

There are various kayaking tours in Barcelona and up the coast towards France, offering everything from quick adventures to all-day escapades far from the city.

Kayak rental in Barcelona

If you don’t have time for an all-day trip but still want to kayak in Barcelona, opt for hourly kayak rental in the port. You can enjoy the calm water of the harbor and safely kayak with your friends and family to enjoy the skyline of the city from a new angle.

This is the best way to escape the rush of the metropolitan and unwind by the ocean. You can also rent a pedal kayak to take on the Olympic Port for a different water-bound experience.

Kayak at the Sau Reservoir

Ocean kayaking is not for everyone but the Sau Reservoir offers a brilliant option for freshwater kayaking in Barcelona. The large body of water is just over an hour away from Barcelona and is surrounded by towering mountains, making it a blissful setting for an outdoor adventure.

Make your way to the reservoir and take a guided kayak tour or combine your adventure with a hiking and Segway tour for a truly action-packed day.

Kayaking and banana boat ride at Playa Grande

Make your way to Calella, less than an hour north of Barcelona, for a marvelous day at the beach with kayaking and a banana boat ride.

Hold on to the banana boat as you whizz along the water at full speed, getting your blood racing. After you have had your adrenaline fix, you can unwind with an hour-long kayaking session on the calm Mediterranean.

Costa Brava kayaking and snorkeling tour

Join a small group of adventurers and set off for the wild north coast of Spain. You will take to the waters on this kayaking tour of Costa Brava to explore rugged cliffs and secret coves.

Add to the experience with a snorkeling tour in the splendid underwater scenery. This 8-hour tour is an epic all-day adventure that includes convenient coach transfers and a refreshing lunch to keep you fueled.

You can also combine this with a hiking excursion in Costa Brava to get the best of land and sea in one day. If you prefer a private experience, book a private kayaking tour for only you and your party to enjoy your own pace.

How much do kayak trips in Barcelona cost?

The least expensive way to go kayaking in Barcelona is to rent a kayak which only costs €15 per person per hour.

Kayaking at Playa Grande costs €25 and includes a banana boat ride. Sau Reservoir is a brilliant place for a shorter kayaking tour in Barcelona with tours only costing €30 per person.

A more comprehensive experience is the full-day kayaking excursion to Costa Brava. This costs around €80 per person but includes transportation and lunch as well as your kayaking and snorkeling equipment.

You can also do this as a private kayaking tour from Barcelona for €300 per person, but the price is subject to change depending on your group size.

What's included?

All kayaking tours include your gear rental along with a life jacket. If you go on a kayaking excursion to Costa Brava you will also have access to snorkeling gear. You will also enjoy a lovely lunch and some refreshments and a comfortable coach will transport you to and from the activity.

If you plan to kayak in Barcelona’s port you will only get a kayak and life jacket and you can enjoy the experience at your own pace.

Sau Reservoir kayaking trips do not include transportation, but a guide will take you around the reservoir on the most scenic kayaking route.

If you travel to Playa Grande for kayaking, you will get a double kayak for 2 hours and a banana boat ride.

Where do they start?

Kayaking tours that go to Costa Brava usually leave from the tour operator’s office. They will send you directions once you have confirmed your booking.

Other tours do not include transportation and you will simply make your way to the booking office at Sau Reservoir or the Olympic Port in Barcelona.

How long do they last?

Kayak rentals in Barcelona are charged by the hour and you can enjoy your experience as long as your arms will allow you.

The Sau Reservoir kayaking tour is the shortest guided tour and only lasts 2 hours while Costa Brava excursions last all day and you should prepare to be gone for 8 to 10 hours.

When is the best time of year and day for a kayaking tour in Barcelona?

The kayaking season usually opens around Easter in April, and lasts until the end of October.

It is best to go kayaking in Barcelona in the morning as the sea is usually at its calmest in the morning. In the afternoon, the sun can be scorching and the swell might pick up making, it more tiring to paddle.

Are there any combo available with kayaking tours in Barcelona?

Kayaking and archery tour

Combine a relaxing kayaking experience on Sau Reservoir with the unusual activity of archery. Enjoy a tour of the reservoir before showing off your Robin Hood skills on the archery range.

Is it safe?

Kayaking tours are safe as they are guided by professionals and include life jackets. However, it is paramount that you are able to swim and for many tours it is compulsory. It would be unsafe to embark on a kayaking tour if you cannot swim.

Kayaking tours are also not recommended for people who are pregnant or people who have serious back or shoulder problems.

Are children allowed?

Depending on your tour operator, children from certain ages are able to join a kayaking tour. Some tours place age limits from 7 years old, but it's best to check with your chosen tour beforehand.

What happens in case of bad weather?

Good weather is necessary for a kayaking tour in Barcelona. In the case of bad weather, your tour operator will either offer you a full refund or alternative date to complete your tour.

Which other water activities can you do in Barcelona?

• Boat tours in Barcelona
• Stand-up paddle boarding tours in Barcelona
• Surf lessons in Barcelona
• Scuba diving in Barcelona
• Jet ski tours in Barcelona

Travel tips

• Bring your swimsuit and towel and a dry change of clothes.
• Tell your tour operator if you have any dietary restrictions if your tour includes lunch.
• Wear sunscreen and a hat to protect from sunburn while on the open water.
• Kayaking has a weight limit per person. Double-check the limits before booking your experience.