Santorini Sea Kayak South Discovery: Paddle Red & White Beaches, Snorkel & Picnic
Paddle Santorini’s volcanic southwest to reach the Red and White beaches, sea caves and clear snorkeling coves. This small-group, introductory sea kayak tour mixes geology, a light picnic and certified guides for a safe, scenic outing.
The Experience
Before You Go
Mandatory lifejacket
Always wear the provided PFD—guides enforce lifejacket use for safety in variable sea conditions.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Use biodegradable sunscreen to protect Posidonia meadows and avoid skin irritation while paddling.
Wear water shoes
Rugged volcanic beaches and sharp rocks make closed-toe water shoes useful for getting in and out of kayaks.
Mind the weight limit
Operators have a recommended maximum participant weight (~125 kg/270 lb); check when booking to ensure a safe fit in tandem kayaks.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Kambia cove — a quieter pebble beach reachable by paddle
- •Cape Akrotiri lighthouse — dramatic coastal views from a short paddle or walk
Wildlife
- •Common dolphin (occasionally seen offshore)
- •Loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) in summer waters
Conservation Note
Avoid disturbing seagrass beds (Posidonia); use reef-safe sunscreen and follow guides’ instructions to minimize impact on fragile shorelines.
The southwest cliffs are built from volcanic tuff and pumice from Santorini’s eruptions; nearby Akrotiri preserves Bronze Age ruins buried by the same events.
What to Bring
Closed-toe water shoesEssential
Protects feet from hot sand, sharp pumice and slippery rocks when launching and landing.
Drybag (provided but bring small extra)
Keeps phone, camera and extra layer dry during paddling and shore stops.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and the local marine environment—required in sensitive Mediterranean waters.
Light windlayer
Thin shell for cooling winds on open water, especially in mornings or late afternoons.
Common Questions
Do I need prior kayaking experience?
No—this is an introductory tour suitable for beginners; guides teach basic paddling and safety before launch.
What is the weight limit?
The operator advises participants not exceeding ~125 kg (270 lb); oversized participants should check availability and single-seat options when booking.
Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes—snorkel masks and fins are provided for stops where snorkeling is offered as part of the itinerary.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Trips are assessed the day before; activities may be canceled or rescheduled for safety with refund or rebooking per the cancellation policy.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3–4 hours
Location
Akrotiri, South Aegean
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with moderate fitness; you’ll paddle continuously with short breaks and need agility for beach entries
Ready to Explore Akrotiri?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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