Kayaking in Benidorm

Benidorm isn't just about beaches and parties. Its surroundings hide quiet coves with crystal-clear waters, caves, magnificent cliffs, and seabeds that will delight any snorkeling or scuba diving enthusiast.

But many of these spots can only be accessed from the sea. That's why a kayak excursion is one of the best activities you can do in Benidorm. It's also an experience you'll really enjoy if you're traveling with friends or family.

Are you ready to embark on an adventure? Don't think twice, places you can't imagine await you in Benidorm. To leave you in no doubt, I'll explain which are the best kayaking excursions. I'll also give you some other information that may be of interest to you.

Come with me!

The Alicante coastline hides fascinating ecosystems. Located a few kilometers north of Benidorm, Cabo de San Antonio is a nature reserve protected for its high ecological value. Here you can sail at the foot of cliffs that are over 150 meters high. And if you dive into its waters, you will see posidonia meadows, corals, and countless fish and crustaceans.

All this makes it one of the most exciting things you can do in Benidorm. But what will you see and do on this adventure? Take note:

• You will explore the most beautiful part of Cape San Antonio. Meanwhile, a professional guide will explain all the secrets of this geographical feature and the nature reserve.
• You will visit Cova Tallada, a cave at sea level that was a quarry between the 12th and 14th centuries. Don't miss its rock arches and how the stone was extracted. In addition, there is a natural pool inside. One of the most surprising corners of the Alicante coast!
• You'll have time to put on your snorkeling gear and discover the interesting marine flora and fauna of this nature reserve.

If you're looking for a little excitement and adventure, I recommend this experience. Cala Tangó, in Jávea, is one of the most surprising and unique places on the Costa Blanca. It's not easy to reach on foot, so kayaking is the best way to enjoy it.

But that's not what makes it so special. Why should you discover it? Here are just a few good reasons:

• You can jump off cliffs. You'll get a huge adrenaline rush and, most importantly, it's safe. In this cove, there are small platforms at different heights for jumping without any risk.
• When you get tired of jumping, you can take a relaxing dip or go snorkeling in its crystal-clear waters. In addition, the cove is usually uncrowded, making it one of the best activities you can plan in Benidorm in August.
• Although it's an extreme adventure, you'll also enjoy the beauty of Cape San Antonio and its rocky walls. Hidden among them are a few caves that you can explore. You'll feel like a real explorer!

If you decide to enjoy this excursion, whether you are an art lover or not, I recommend that you first take a look at a painting: "Children Bathing Among Rocks, Jávea," by Joaquín Sorolla. Why? Because Cala Tangó is the setting that inspired the painter. It will not be difficult for you to identify the rocks on which the protagonists of the work are leaning.

Cala Granadella is a spectacular place to start a kayaking excursion. The reason? Its crystal-clear turquoise waters invite you to dive in. What's more, if you follow the coastline as you paddle, you'll come across some of the most beautiful spots near Benidorm.

If you want to enjoy a peaceful and relaxing experience, this is definitely the right choice! It's also one of the best activities you can do in Benidorm in October, when you don't feel like swimming so much. Take a look at everything that awaits you:

• You'll discover En Caló, a beautiful cove between cliffs with a huge rock in the center. It can only be accessed by sea, and when you see it, it's sure to remind you of those hidden beaches typical of exotic countries. But don't forget, you're just a stone's throw from Benidorm!
• You'll also visit Cova del Llop Marí, a sea cave that will surprise you with its size. It's also an ideal place to dive into the water and go snorkeling.
• Following the coastline of Jávea, you will reach Cala Ámbolo. There you will see the watchtower that was built in the 16th century to defend against pirate attacks. So, as well as discovering some fascinating landscapes, you can learn a little more about the history of this area.

Following the coast of Benidorm northwards, the coastline becomes rugged. Hidden among these cliffs overlooking the sea are countless caves. More than just landscapes, they are living lessons in geology. Aboard a kayak, you can see the enormous power of nature up close.

If you have an adventurous spirit, dare to discover some of these caves, not only for their beauty, but also for the varied fauna they shelter. But that's not the only reason I recommend this adventure.

What else awaits you?

• You can take a dip in the Blue Lagoon. It is a small natural pool whose intense turquoise waters are perfect for taking those photos that will make your social media friends jealous.
• Fancy a bit of caving? Perfect! There's a very special stop on your route: the Cova del Llop Marí, one of the most spectacular caves on the Alicante coast.

Cala de Portixol, in the neighboring town of Jávea, is one of the most photogenic spots on the Levantine coast. Its crystal-clear waters and the fishermen's cottages on its shore create a picture that is sure to remind you of the Greek islands.

But this spot is much more than just a photo opportunity. The cove is perfect for a pleasant kayak trip, diving, and enjoying the surrounding cliffs. Here's a more detailed explanation of everything that awaits you:

• You can go snorkeling in Cala El Pom. It can only be accessed by sea. It is home to interesting marine structures, seabeds worth admiring, and even a waterfall!
• You'll arrive at the foot of Cap Negre, a 100-meter-high cliff. By the way, if you have time after the excursion, climb up to the viewpoint, where the views of the coast are spectacular.
• You'll conquer the island of Portixol. Don't miss the beauty of its caves, but above all, its natural pool. With its crystal-clear waters, it's perfect for a dip. Do you dare to jump from the rocks? Here you can do it.

Did you know that there are 26 buildings in the city that are over 100 meters high? Or that three of them are over 150 meters high? But you can only admire Benidorm's unique skyline if you move a few hundred meters away from the coast.

If you explore the bay by kayak, you'll see much more, such as its island and the famous Levante beach. And if you still have energy left, I recommend following the coast north to the Serra Gelada Natural Park. What will you see there? Cliffs over 300 meters high, caves, and the small island of Mitjana, which hides rocky seabeds teeming with life.

This island rises just over 73 meters above sea level. It is surely one of the most iconic images of Benidorm. But what you may not know is that it has incredible ecological value. Countless birds nest here and the richness of its seabed makes it a great place for diving.

But how do you get there? A good way is by kayak. You may think that this island is very far away, but it really isn't. It is just over three kilometers from the coast, about three quarters of an hour's paddle.

And here's an interesting fact: there are many legends about its origin. Some say that it was the horse of King James I the Conqueror that split a mountain with a kick. Others attribute the feat to the mount of the apostle James. And still others to Charlemagne's sword or mythological beings. You can try to unravel the mystery when you get there.

This is another interesting option, as it allows you to navigate freely. You decide where to take your kayak and where to take a break. There are no time restrictions either. Would you like to watch the sunset? One option is to take a boat trip to watch the sunset, but you can also do it from a kayak.

That freedom is the great advantage of renting the boat yourself. However, I only recommend this adventure if you have some experience, are in good physical shape, and have researched the places you want to visit by kayak beforehand. And, if possible, don't travel alone.

Despite the advantages of this option, don't forget that on a guided tour you will always have the support of a professional. Not only will they take you to the most spectacular spots along the coast, they will also provide you with lots of information and assistance if you need it.

The most important thing is that you are eager to have fun and do some sport. The excursions last around two and a half hours, but don't worry, the routes are not too demanding. You will be able to do them without too much difficulty, even if you don't usually do sport.

Obviously, you must know how to swim. However, you don't need to be an Olympic swimmer, you just need to be comfortable in the water. In any case, if you opt for a guided excursion, you will be accompanied by an expert guide. In addition, it is mandatory to wear the life jacket that you will be given before starting the activity because safety is paramount.

What else will you need? Very little, really:

• swimsuit, waterproof clothing and footwear, and a towel, especially if you plan to take advantage of the excursion to snorkel or take a dip.
• A hat, sunglasses, and good sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun and breeze.
• You can bring water to stay hydrated or a snack, although these are usually included in the excursion.

Before booking a kayaking excursion, it is a good idea to consider a few other issues, as not all experiences are the same:

• The duration may vary slightly, but it will not be less than two and a half hours. Keep this in mind so you can make the most of your stay and enjoy the best things Benidorm has to offer.
• You can usually choose between two times, morning and afternoon.
• The minimum age requirement may vary depending on the type of experience. The usual requirement is to be over 10 years old, although for more demanding excursions the limit may be raised to 16 years old.
• Prices also depend on the experience you choose. As a general rule, they range from 40 euros to 70 euros.

It's very simple. First, choose the kayak excursion you would most like to do. Remember that there are different itineraries and that some activities include the possibility of snorkeling or caving. But not all of them.

Second, select the date and time you want and how many people will be going on the excursion. If there is availability, all you have to do is enter your personal details and make the reservation. It is important that you remember to print out your reservation or, at least, have the confirmation email handy on your mobile phone. You will need to present it at the start of the activity.

You should also bear in mind that these experiences, like others such as riding a banana boat in Benidorm, require a minimum number of participants. If this minimum number is not reached for the day and time you have chosen, the activity will be canceled. But don't worry! That doesn't mean you have to give up on it, as there may always be places available at another time.

What happens if it is canceled due to bad weather? Don't worry, you will receive a refund or you can change the date without any problems. You will also receive a refund if you are unable to participate in the excursion and you give at least 24 hours' notice.

Any kayaking adventure will allow you to see Benidorm with new eyes. But you may not be able or willing to make the effort to paddle for a few hours. Don't miss out on seeing the city skyline from the sea or enjoying the beauty of the surrounding coastline.

One alternative is to take one of the boat trips from Benidorm. You'll be able to see the bay, Levante beach, and the island. If you're looking for things to do in Benidorm with children, choose a boat with an underwater viewing window. The little ones will love seeing the seabed and countless animals swimming right beside them.

There's more, because from dry land you can also admire the landscapes of the Costa Blanca, its cliffs, and some of its caves. The best thing is that these trips to the coast and caves from Benidorm also allow you to discover some really beautiful neighboring towns.

And if you still want more, remember that you're in a city that's synonymous with fun. There are endless plans for enjoying Benidorm in three days, two days, or even just one day.

Is it a mini-vacation or a long getaway? Then here's one last tip: set aside a day for one ofthe day trips from Benidorm. Just a stone's throw from the city, there are wonderful places to visit, such as Calpe, Altea, and the Algar springs. Discover them!