Coastal Hike, Kayaking & Swimming in Costa Brava, Barcelona

5.0 (2 reviews)
Explore the Costa Brava by hiking along the Camí de Ronda coastal trail, kayaking along the shore, and swimming or snorkeling.

Overview

Enjoy the perfect mix of outdoor activity on the Costa Brava: a hike along the area's famed Camí de Ronda coastal trail, kayaking in idyllic coves, and swimming, cliff jumping, and/or snorkeling in a protected lagoon. You'll start with a hike along the coast to Sant Pol de S'Agaró, where a beach and your kayaks await. Then, after an introductory course, you'll gear up and paddle along sandstone cliffs, learning about the area's marine ecosystems along the way. Upon reaching a protected cove with calm, clear water, park your kayaks and snorkel, cliff jump, or simply cool off with a refreshing swim.

Highlights

  • Enjoy the coastal views along the scenic Camí de Ronda hiking trail
  • Learn kayaking skills and paddle in calm coves along sea cliffs
  • Take a dip in the sea or go snorkeling or cliff jumping
  • Discover the area's marine ecosystems while kayaking and snorkeling

Know before you go

Duration
8 hours
Recommended for
8 years old & up
Group
Small group

What you'll do

Combine three memorable activities on this excursion in the Costa Brava. You'll start by meeting your driver in Barcelona, who will pick you up and take you northeast to the seaside town of Sant Feliu de Guíxols. Here, you'll begin your trek along a portion of the area's beloved coastal route, Camí de Ronda, also known as El Camino de Ronda. This ancient trail stretches along the sea from Sant Feliu de Guíxols to Begur, though many trekkers opt for a multi-day circular route that starts and ends in Girona. The area around Sant Feliu has some of the best views along its rocky sea cliffs.

The stretch you'll follow is medium in difficulty due to a few sets of stairs and covers about 3 miles (5 km), passing through Mediterranean vegetation, Stone Pine trees, and sandstone cliffs. You'll wrap around the Esculls area, where you can enjoy scenic spots like Cala del Peix and Sa Caleta before ending at Sant Pol de S'Agaró beach. At the beach, your kayaks will be waiting for you!

Next, enjoy a few fun exercises to get you laughing and your blood pumping, then an introductory course to paddling. After learning a few skills and getting comfortable with your gear, you'll set off along the beach's shallow water for a bit of practice before continuing along the sea cliffs. 

Sea kayaking in the Costa Brava's crystal-clear water is quite a memorable experience, as you'll paddle along sandstone ochre cliffs, pass into coastal caves, and float in calm coves. Your guide will also provide information about the area's unique marine ecosystem. You'll kayak for about two hours, and the course is suitable for all skill levels, including beginners. Before returning to the beach, you'll anchor in a secluded cala (cove) for free time to swim, jump into the sea from the cliffs, and snorkel.

Upon returning to Sant Pol de S'Agaró beach, you'll have more time to relax on the sand, enjoy more swimming, or grab lunch at one of the beachfront eateries. This part of the Costa Brava is known for its fresh seafood and tasty paella dishes. You're also welcome to bring food and drinks from Barcelona or just grab some snacks from the grocery store and enjoy a picnic on the beach. Just note that lunch isn't included in the excursion. 

After your free time in Platja de Sant Pol, your driver will pick you up and start the journey to Barcelona. Plan to arrive back in the city around 5:00 pm.

Start times

  • Daily
    8:30 am

What's included

  • All ground transportation in a comfortable minivan
  • Professional guide
  • Sea kayaking activity and all the gear needed (2 hours)
  • Accident insurance
  • Bottled water

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Traveler reviews

2 total ratings, 2 with reviews
5.0
Feature ratings
Quality of Experience
5.0
Guides, Drivers and Staff
5.0
Transport
4.5
L
Leah C.
Flagami, FL | Reviewed on Jun 17, 2024
Great day trip. Short hike, kayaking and swimming. The guide was knowledgeable and truly enjoyed his job. Read more

Great day trip. Short hike, kayaking and swimming. The guide was knowledgeable and truly enjoyed his job.

Tips for future travelers

Be prepared for a full day but will be beautiful!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
K
Kelley S.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Oct 03, 2022
Tips for future travelers Bring food! There is a bonus hour after kayaking to choose going to a local restaurant or laying on the beach and swimming. If you choose the swimming option, you definitely want to have snacks on hand to enjoy while you relax. There isn't a defined eating time on the trip otherwise. This day was really fun. Read more
Tips for future travelers

Bring food! There is a bonus hour after kayaking to choose going to a local restaurant or laying on the beach and swimming. If you choose the swimming option, you definitely want to have snacks on hand to enjoy while you relax. There isn't a defined eating time on the trip otherwise. This day was really fun.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Stepan was amazing!
Transport

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