La Spezia: Sunset Kayak & Caves Tour w/ Swimming & Aperitif

Discover La Spezia’s Coastline by Kayak at Sunset

The La Spezia: Sunset Kayak & Caves Tour with Swimming and Aperitif offers a beautifully relaxed way to explore Italy’s Ligurian coast. Priced at around €50 per person, this 3.5-hour guided experience departs from the Baia Blu free beach and takes paddlers along the scenic Bay of Poets. The tour is perfect for those who want to combine adventure, natural beauty, and a taste of local Italy in a small group setting led by expert guides.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on accessibility to hidden spots only reachable by kayak, including sea caves, coves, and beaches. The sunset setting enhances the experience, as the sky lights up with golden hues, creating perfect conditions for photos and memorable moments. The tour includes swimming opportunities at crystal-clear waters and ends with a delicious aperitivo served on a quiet beach, making it a well-rounded outing.

While the experience offers many highlights, it’s worth considering that kayaking for around 8 km can be physically demanding, especially in open water, so some paddling experience or good fitness levels are helpful. The small-group format, with local guides in multiple languages (Italian, Spanish, English), ensures a friendly, informative, and personalized experience suited for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Sunset kayaking adventure exploring sea caves, hidden coves, and beaches only accessible by water.
• Guided tour along the scenic Gulf of Poets, with expert local guides leading the way.
• Swim stops in crystal-clear waters and photo opportunities at stunning viewpoints.
• Aperitivo with light snacks and drinks served on a quiet beach at sunset.
• Total duration of 3.5 hours, starting at half an hour before sunset.
• Small group experience ensures personalized attention and better interaction with guides.

Starting Point at Baia Blu Free Beach

The tour begins at Baia Blu free beach, where participants meet half an hour before the scheduled start. The meeting point is easy to find via Google Maps as KLS – Kayak Guided Tours and Rentals. Visitors arriving by car can park in the lot above the beach, avoiding the entrance reserved for the beach club, and walk down to the meeting area. The coordinates 44.0834, 9.8859 help locate the spot precisely.

This location provides direct access to the kayaks, making the start of the trip smooth. The proximity to local villages like San Terenzo and Lerici allows for scenic views from the water and easy access to nearby cafes and restaurants before or after the tour.

Exploring the Scenic Coast of Lerici and San Terenzo

The kayaking route takes you past charming villages such as San Terenzo and Lerici, offering views of colorful buildings, quaint harbors, and lush cliffs. Paddling along the eastern coast of the Gulf of Poets, the guides highlight notable landmarks and point out islands and cliffs that add to the landscape’s drama.

The scenic coastline is a highlight, with breathtaking vistas of rugged cliffs dropping into the sea and small islands dotting the horizon. All stops are carefully chosen to give travelers time to take photos and enjoy the stunning scenery, especially during the golden hour of sunset.

Sea Cave and Hidden Coves Accessed by Kayak

One of the most exciting features of this tour is exploring sea caves accessible only from the water. The guides lead paddlers through caves and coves that reveal secret landscapes and natural formations. These spots are perfect for photography and experiencing the coast from a unique perspective.

Each cave and cove provides a peaceful space for a break or a quick swim, away from crowded beaches. The hidden beaches are quiet, pristine, and offer a serene setting for relaxing and taking in the golden light of the sunset.

More Great Tours Nearby

Swimming in the Clear Waters of Liguria

The crystal-clear waters of the Ligurian Sea come into play with multiple swimming stops. The guides select spots with calm, inviting waters suitable for a refreshing dip. Swimmers get to enjoy the cool relief after paddling and can appreciate the tranquil beauty of the coast from the water.

Swimming in these unspoiled waters is a highlight, especially at sunset when the sea sparkles under the changing sky. The calm bays create ideal conditions, making the experience enjoyable even for those who aren’t expert swimmers.

The Aperitivo on the Beach at Sunset

The tour concludes with a beachside aperitivo, a casual gathering with light snacks and drinks served right on the sand. As the sun sets over the horizon, this relaxed end to the trip lets participants unwind, chat, and soak up the warm golden glow.

This beach stop adds a perfect touch of Italy’s casual, convivial spirit, turning the kayaking adventure into a full sensory experience—combining spectacular scenery, refreshing water, and delicious local bites.

The Pacing and Physical Demands

The tour’s relaxed paddle along the coast is suitable for those with moderate fitness, but kayaking around 8 km may be challenging for complete beginners. The guides are experienced and helpful, and older or heavier kayaks are provided when needed. Paddling in open water requires some stamina, especially as it can be windy on certain days.

Participants should be prepared for some physical exertion, but the pace remains manageable, and frequent stops allow for breaks. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the guides’ friendly, knowledgeable manner makes the experience accessible and enjoyable.

Logistics and Group Size

The tour is designed for small groups, which enhances the overall experience by allowing more interaction with guides and less crowding. Meeting half an hour before sunset at the KLS base ensures a smooth start. The location is easy to locate and accessible, whether arriving by car or public transportation.

The guides speak Italian, Spanish, and English, making the tour flexible for international visitors. They also offer pick-up and drop-off services if needed, which has been noted as a helpful feature for visitors unfamiliar with local transport.

The Experience Guides and Their Role

The local guides are consistently praised for their friendliness, expertise, and helpfulness. They not only steer the kayaks but also explain the geography, history, and points of interest along the coast. Their tips about the best photo spots and safety precautions enhance the trip, making it both fun and informative.

The guides also manage the pace well, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and safe throughout the rough or calm waters. Their knowledge about local spots adds a layer of authenticity to this guided adventure.

Comparing This Tour to Other Ligurian Experiences

Unlike typical boat trips or larger group excursions, this kayaking tour offers a more intimate encounter with the coast. It provides a different perspective, focusing on caves, coves, and beaches that are often hidden from view.

Other similar activities include boat cruises, walking tours of Portovenere, or hikes in the area. This kayaking experience stands out for its combination of physical activity, natural beauty, and sunset magic, making it ideal for adventure lovers and those wanting a more active way to see Liguria’s coastline.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This adventure suits active travelers comfortable with paddling or those willing to try something new. It’s particularly great for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone interested in seeing Italy’s coast from the water at sunset.

Participants should be aware of the physical aspect—paddling over 8 km, often in open water, can be tiring. However, the stunning scenery, swimming stops, and beach aperitivo make every effort worthwhile. Families with older children and those with a moderate fitness level will enjoy the experience most.

Final Thoughts on the Sunset Kayak & Caves Tour

The La Spezia sunset kayak tour offers a beautiful mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and relaxed social moments. The small group size and expert guides ensure a personable experience, while the hidden caves and coves deliver a sense of discovery. The opportunity to swim in clear waters and enjoy an Italian-style aperitivo adds to its charm.

While paddling 8 km may challenge some, the overall pacing and stunning views make it a worthy outing for those seeking a memorable experience in Liguria. This tour is particularly well-suited for travelers who appreciate active holidays and beautiful coastal scenery at sunset.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, but participants should be comfortable with paddling. The guides are helpful and provide instructions, but paddling 8 km may be tiring for absolute beginners.

What should I bring for the trip?
Participants should wear comfortable clothing suitable for water activities. Sun protection, water, and a towel are recommended. The guides provide the kayaks, safety equipment, and some snacks for the aperitivo.

Can I join if I don’t swim?
Yes, but it’s advisable to be comfortable with wading or floating in water, as swimming is part of the experience at stops.

Are the kayaks suitable for all sizes?
The tour provides various kayak sizes, including heavier models if needed. The guides can advise on the best option for comfort.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if plans change.

How do I find the meeting point?
The meeting point is at Baia Blu free beach, with coordinates 44.0834, 9.8859. The area is accessible by car or public transport.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, tours may be canceled or rescheduled in case of bad weather or rough seas, ensuring safety for all paddlers.

What makes this tour different from other Ligurian activities?
This tour focuses on active exploration of the coast via kayak, sunset scenery, and hidden spots inaccessible by boat, offering a more personalized and adventurous experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby