Activity · Water
Kayaking & snorkelling on Mallorca
The easiest way to see the coves that no path leads to: which stretches of coast are suitable, how tours work and what families should look out for.
From a kayak you can reach coves that no path on land leads to.
Quick answer
How do kayaking and snorkelling tours work?
The usual format is a guided half-day tour of two to four hours: a short briefing on the beach, a paddling section along the coast, one or two stops for snorkelling and a break at a cove that can only be reached from the water. The operator provides the equipment. Alternatively, you can hire kayaks by the hour on many beaches – then without a guide and without a snorkelling programme.
Which coast suits which level?
The deciding factor is less the operator than the stretch of coast: sheltered coves in the south-east and in the bay of Pollença are calm even in a little wind, while the more open sections in the south-west require experience. For snorkelling, rocky edges with seagrass meadows are much more rewarding than sandy beaches.
| Area | Water | Typical tour | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|---|
| South-east around Mondragó and Santanyí | very clear, rocky edges with seagrass | Half-day tours between the coves | Families, snorkelling beginners |
| North-east around Cala Ratjada | clear, some deeper drop-offs | Coastal tours with caves and small beaches | Active visitors, photography |
| Bay of Pollença and Formentor | sheltered in the inner bay | calm paddling tours with mountain views | Beginners, couples |
| South-west around Andratx and Sa Dragonera | deep, clear, more exposed | longer tours, weather-dependent | Experienced paddlers |
Equipment and safety
- Wear a life jacket, even in a calm sea and over a short distance.
- Sun protection and a hat: on the water, the radiation is regularly underestimated.
- Water shoes make getting in and out easier at rocky coves.
- Check the wind before you start – offshore wind can push kayaks out to sea without you noticing.
- When snorkelling, keep your distance from boats and channels; a buoy or a bright colour helps.
- Seagrass meadows are protected: do not stand on them and do not take anything away.
When it is most worthwhile
In the morning the sea is usually calmest and the light best for snorkelling. From June to October the water is pleasantly warm throughout; in spring, neoprene tops are a good idea, and many operators provide them.
Profile at a glance
- Duration
- 2–4 hours per tour
- Season
- May to October
- Areas
- South-east, north-east, bay of Pollença
- Requirements
- Ability to swim, minimum age depending on the operator
- Equipment
- usually included in the tour price
Booking on site
Kayaking and snorkelling tours are booked directly with the operators on the beach, via reception or online with the organiser. Prices, minimum ages and start times vary considerably – so we do not give fixed figures.
Next steps
Frequently asked questions about kayaking and snorkelling
Do you need experience for a kayak tour?
Not for guided tours. Double kayaks are stable, the groups stay close to the coast and the guide gives a short briefing. You should be able to swim, and a life jacket is compulsory.
From what age can children take part?
Minimum ages vary by operator; around six to eight years in a double kayak with an adult is usual. The information given by the respective organiser is always binding.
Where is the best snorkelling on Mallorca?
Along rocky edges with clear water and seagrass meadows – for example in the Mondragó Natural Park, in the coves around Cala Ratjada and on the sheltered coast in the north-east. Wide sandy beaches offer little to see.
Which season is suitable?
May to October. In early summer the water is still cool but very clear; in September it is at its warmest. With onshore wind, tours are cancelled or moved for safety reasons.
What is included in a tour?
As a rule, kayak, paddle, life jacket, dry barrel and snorkelling gear, often a small snack. You bring your own sun protection, water and water shoes.