Sea Kayaking in Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is known for its stone walls, compact Old Town and direct access to the Adriatic. Beyond walking the streets and visiting key historic landmarks, one of the simplest ways to experience the coastline is by joining a sea kayaking tour.

Sea kayaking provides a wide view of the Dubrovnik City Walls from the water and access to small coves and caves that cannot be reached from shore. Routes are suitable for beginners and tours operate throughout the main season with several departures each day.

Below is an overview of what sea kayaking in Dubrovnik involves, typical routes, what to expect on a tour and practical tips for choosing the right option.

What you will see on a sea kayaking tour in Dubrovnik

City Walls and Old Town coastline

The sea route along the outer side of Dubrovnik’s City Walls shows their full length and structure in a way that is not visible from the streets inside the Old Town. From the water you can clearly see defensive towers, the shape of the fortifications and how the walls rise directly from the rocks, which adds context when you later walk the City Walls from above.

During the tour you paddle parallel to the walls at a safe distance while guides point out major sections and viewpoints. This part of the route is usually calm and gives you time to take photos of the Old Town skyline and understand how the sea side of the walls was defended.

Good to know

• Light is softer and photos are clearer in the morning or late afternoon compared with midday.
• You can combine a sea kayaking tour with a later walk along the City Walls for two different perspectives of the same area.
• Most tours keep to a comfortable distance from the walls, so you do not paddle directly beneath the highest cliffs.

Fort Lovrijenac and Pile Bay

Fort Lovrijenac stands on a high rock above Pile Bay and guards the western entrance to the Old Town. Seen from the water, the height of the fort and the narrow entrance to the harbor are much easier to appreciate than from land, and you can clearly see why this location was chosen for a separate defensive structure alongside the main walls and the historic Fort Lovrijenac itself.

Most tours start and end in Pile Bay, so you paddle out beneath the fort at the beginning and return the same way at the end. It is also a sheltered area where guides give the initial instructions, check sea conditions and allow guests to get used to the kayak before moving into more open water.

Good to know

• The launch area is rocky, so simple water shoes or sturdy sandals are more comfortable than flip-flops.
• Wave movement inside Pile Bay is usually mild, which helps beginners adjust before paddling further out.
• After the tour you are only a short walk from the Old Town gate, so you can continue sightseeing on foot.

Lokrum Island

Lokrum Island lies a short distance from the Old Town and is covered in forest with rocky shores and cliffs. From the kayak you see the outer coastline, small coves and sea cliffs that are different from the built-up waterfront near the Old Town, and you get a preview of what awaits if you later visit Lokrum Island by regular boat.

Depending on the tour length and sea conditions, you may paddle toward Lokrum or complete a partial loop around it. The activity here is steady paddling along the shoreline with short stops to rest, listen to basic explanations about the island and look back toward the Old Town and open sea.

Good to know

• Not all tours fully circle Lokrum; check the planned route if you specifically want a longer section near the island.
• Sea can be slightly choppier in the open channel between the Old Town and Lokrum, so guides may adjust the route on windy days.
• If you plan to visit Lokrum Island separately, you will already know which parts of the shoreline you saw from the kayak.

Betina Cave Beach

Betina Cave is a small natural cave with a pebble beach reachable only from the sea. The sheltered inlet makes it a common resting point for kayaking groups and a practical location for a swimming or snorkelling break away from main city beaches.

Tours usually stop here long enough for guests to swim, snorkel or rest on the beach. Equipment such as life jackets and snorkel masks is normally provided by the operator, and those who prefer not to swim can stay in the kayak or sit on the pebbles near the waterline.

Good to know

• The beach is rocky, so water shoes make it easier to enter and exit the sea.
• Space inside the cave is limited; groups usually rotate between swimming, snorkelling and resting to avoid crowding.
• This stop is often the coolest part of the tour, which is useful on hotter summer days.

Open Adriatic coastline

Between Pile Bay and Lokrum Island the coastline includes cliffs, rock formations and sections of open water with clear views across the Adriatic. Sea colour and clarity change with depth and sunlight, and this contrast is one of the main reasons many operators highlight this part of the route.

Here you paddle at a comfortable pace in deeper water while keeping the coastline in view. Guides usually plan short pauses so the group can stay together, adjust to any small waves and take photos of the Old Town skyline, Lokrum and the wider Dubrovnik coastline in a single frame.

Good to know

• This is where you are most exposed to sun and reflection from the sea, so a hat and high-factor sunscreen are important.
• Small waves and boat wakes are normal; guides show you how to angle the kayak to pass through them safely.
• If you are prone to motion sickness, it helps to look at the horizon and avoid sudden head movements while paddling in open water.

Why go sea kayaking in Dubrovnik?

Sea kayaking in Dubrovnik is a simple way to see the Old Town, coastline and the famous City Walls from the water while avoiding some of the crowds on land. It combines light activity with swimming and time on the sea, so it works well as a half-day add-on to walking the city.

• Get a clear view of the Old Town skyline and city walls from the sea rather than from the streets below.
• Access small coves and caves, including beaches that are only reachable from the water.
• Combine paddling with swimming and basic snorkeling, usually with equipment provided by the tour operator.
• Join a guided activity that is suitable for most beginners, with short safety briefings and stable sit-on-top kayaks.
• Choose between morning, afternoon or sunset departures to fit around walking the walls or visiting Lokrum Island.

Where sea kayaking tours start and typical routes

Most Dubrovnik sea kayaking tours start at Pile Bay, the small harbor located just outside the main entrance to the Old Town. This area provides quick access to the base of Fort Lovrijenac and a clear route along the outer side of the city walls. It is also the closest launch point for reaching Lokrum Island on guided loops.

• Pile Bay start point - easy to reach on foot from the Old Town and commonly used by local operators.
• City walls route - paddle beneath the walls for a wide-angle view of the Old Town from the sea.
• Lokrum loop - a guided route around Lokrum Island, usually including a short stop for swimming.
• Betina Cave stop - many tours include a break at this small cave beach, accessible only from the water.
• Short coastal runs - suitable for beginners who prefer a gentler pace without open-sea crossings.

Types of sea kayaking tours in Dubrovnik

Local operators offer several versions of sea kayaking tours, all using stable sit-on-top kayaks suitable for beginners. The main difference between tours is the time of day, distance covered and whether swimming or snorkelling is included.

• Standard daytime tours - the most common option, usually following the city walls and continuing toward Lokrum Island with a break for swimming.
• Sunset tours - a shorter route timed for calmer seas and views of the Old Town as the light changes.
• Snorkelling-focused tours - include longer stops at small coves or caves with equipment provided.
• Family and beginner tours - slower pace, shorter distance and more time spent near the coastline.
• Longer coastal or island routes - for visitors who want more paddling time and wider coverage of the Dubrovnik shoreline.

What to expect on a typical sea kayaking tour

Most sea kayaking tours in Dubrovnik follow a simple structure that starts with a short safety briefing, equipment check and basic paddling instructions. Guides set an easy pace suitable for mixed groups, with regular stops to rest, take photos and explain points of interest along the coastline.

• Briefing and preparation - guides explain the route, sea conditions and how to use the kayak and paddle.
• Steady group pace - the route is adapted to the group, with frequent pauses near landmarks or sheltered spots.
• Views from the water - expect clear angles of the Old Town walls and open views toward Lokrum Island.
• Swimming or snorkelling stop - many tours include a break at a cave or small beach that can only be reached from the sea.
• Return to Pile Bay - most tours finish where they started, making it easy to continue exploring the Old Town afterward.

Difficulty level, safety and who can join

Sea kayaking in Dubrovnik is suitable for most visitors with basic fitness. Tours use stable sit-on-top kayaks and guides adjust the pace to match the group. No previous kayaking experience is required, but being comfortable in the water is important.

• Fitness and experience - beginners can join without training, and routes are designed to avoid long open-sea crossings.
• Swimming ability - you should be able to swim confidently, as snorkelling and swimming stops are usually part of the tour.
• Age limits - minimum age varies by operator, but children typically join in a double kayak with an adult.
• Safety equipment - life jackets are provided and must be worn at all times during the tour.
• Weather conditions - tours may be shortened or cancelled if the sea becomes rough or if strong winds are forecast.

When is the best time to go sea kayaking in Dubrovnik?

The best time for sea kayaking in Dubrovnik is from late spring to early autumn, when sea temperatures are comfortable and tour schedules are frequent. Conditions depend on wind and sunlight, so choosing the right time of day can make the activity easier and more enjoyable.

• Morning tours - often the calmest conditions, with less boat traffic and cooler temperatures.
• Afternoon tours - good visibility and steady conditions but can be warmer, especially in July and August.
• Sunset tours - a popular option because the sea usually settles again later in the day and the light is better for photos.
• Early and late season - May, June, September and October can offer comfortable conditions with fewer crowds than peak summer.
• Wind changes - on days with stronger winds, guides may adjust the route or shorten the tour for safety.

For a truly magical experience, we recommend a sunset kayaking tour. As the sun dips below the horizon, the ancient Dubrovnik City Walls glow in golden hues. Paddle toward Lokrum Island, where the fading light creates an enchanting atmosphere.

What to wear and what to pack for sea kayaking

Sea kayaking involves sun exposure, contact with saltwater and movement through small waves, so simple, quick-drying clothing works best. Most operators provide basic equipment, but bringing a few useful items makes the tour more comfortable.

• Clothing - wear lightweight, quick-drying shirts and shorts that are comfortable when wet.
• Footwear - water shoes or secure sandals help when entering and exiting the kayak on rocky surfaces.
• Sun protection - sunscreen, a hat and UV-protective sunglasses are important due to reflection from the water.
• Water and snacks - bring a small bottle of water and a simple snack if the tour includes a longer stop.
• Dry bag or waterproof case - useful for phones, small cameras and personal items that should not get wet.
• Towel or spare shirt - helpful after swimming or for comfort when returning to town.
• Optional snorkelling gear - some operators provide masks, but you can bring your own if you prefer a better fit.

How to choose a sea kayaking tour operator

Sea kayaking in Dubrovnik is offered by several licensed operators, and most provide similar equipment and routes. The main differences are guide experience, group size and how well the tour is organized. On this page we highlight recommended tours that consistently receive high customer ratings for safety, clear instructions and overall quality.

• Licensed and insured operators - choose companies that provide life jackets, stable sit-on-top kayaks and clear safety briefings.
• Experienced guides - trained guides know how to adjust the pace, explain the route and respond to changing sea conditions.
• Group size - smaller groups often mean more individual attention and easier coordination during swimming stops.
• Included equipment - check whether the operator provides waterproof barrels, snorkel masks and drinking water.
• Route details - some tours include longer sections near Lokrum Island, while others focus on the city walls and Betina Cave.
• Customer reviews - look for tours with consistently high ratings that mention guide quality, organization and clear communication.

Prices, booking tips and cancellation policies

Sea kayaking tours in Dubrovnik are usually priced per person and include the kayak, guide and basic equipment. Exact prices change by season and operator, but most standard tours fall into a similar range, with sunset and smaller-group options slightly higher.

• Standard daytime tours - a typical 2 to 3 hour sea kayaking tour with a swimming stop usually starts from around €35 to €50 per person, depending on the operator and group size.
• Sunset tours - often cost a little more due to timing and demand, with many offers in the range of about €40 to €60 per person.
• Small-group or private tours - can be priced higher, especially for private departures or tailored routes, so expect higher per-person costs compared with regular group tours.
• What is usually included - sit-on-top kayak, paddle, life jacket, waterproof barrel or dry bag for personal items and, on many tours, basic snorkelling equipment and a simple snack or bottle of water.
• Booking in advance - in July and August, morning and sunset departures commonly sell out, so booking ahead is recommended to secure your preferred time slot.
• Weather and cancellations - if sea or wind conditions are not safe, operators may reschedule or cancel the tour with a full refund or an alternative date; this is standard practice.
• Cancellation policies - many companies allow free cancellation up to a set number of hours or days before the tour, but always check the exact terms on the booking page before confirming.
• Price checks - for the most accurate and current prices, always refer to the official website or booking page of the specific tour you choose, as offers and seasonal discounts can change.

Sea kayaking tours in Dubrovnik are priced mainly by tour length, time of day and group size. Standard daytime tours usually fall within an affordable range, while sunset and small-group options are priced slightly higher. The table below shows common price examples to help you compare typical offers before booking.

*Prices reflect recent offers across several Dubrovnik operators. They may change by season, availability and included equipment. Always check the current price on the booking page before confirming.