Kayaking Costa Brava
Kayaking Costa Brava
4.5
Water SportsNature & Wildlife ToursSelf-Guided Tours & RentalsKayaking & CanoeingDay Trips
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About
KAYAKING COSTA BRAVA is a company dedicated exclusively to sea kayaking activities. We have centres in several areas of the Costa Brava and we offer numerous guided kayak tour options along the coast's most captivating and symbolic spots. Our shop is well-stocked with specialist equipment, and you can rent all you need for a solo (non-guided) tour in our kayaking centres on the beaches of Tamariu, Castell, Montgo and Portlligat. We also offer group activities, as well as the chance to learn all you need to know about this sport, with courses for beginners, advanced courses, Eskimo roll classes, and British Canoe Union (BCU) courses.
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4.5
68 reviews
Excellent
56
Very good
8
Average
2
Poor
1
Terrible
1
brooklyn9196
florida20 contributions
Jun 2013 • Family
My myself, wife and 16 yr old son recently returned from a trip to Spain. While in the Costa Brava we had the fortunate experience of kayaking. We chose Costa Brava Kayaking based on their web page and reviews. They have trips for all levels-we were beginners-you can do this! Our trip departed from Castell Beach and winded our way along the rocky cliffs in and out of little coves and thru tunnels. The instruction before departing is very thorough. This is a very safe adventure and a must-the scenery we encountered is only available from the sea and from kayaks-able to get close-very rocky. For those who think they might not be able to kayak the return they have a zodiac following to pick up stragglers-my wife being one! We plan on returning next year to the Costa Brava and will definitely schedule a trip with Costa Brava Kayaking.
Written 9 July 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Chris63Glasgow
Clarkston, UK254 contributions
Jun 2017 • Couples
I booked this trip expecting a bit of paddling, meeting other people on holiday and having a nice chat with the group - while taking in the scenery along this part of the Costa Brava. Was I ever in for a surprise! This excursion proved an unexpectedly exhilarating day for us. We received a phone call from Kayaking Costa Brava on the day prior to our trip to say the weather forecast was calling for wind and waves and they suggested we reschedule. We would have loved to reschedule, but we had booked for the last day of our visit to the area, so we agreed we would turn up at the beach at Tamariu and see what the conditions were like on the day.
The Tuesday dawned and the weather looked better to us, so we set off to Tamariu. Of note, parking was readily available at 8.45 am and you can’t miss the kayaks in the middle of the beach. We were greeted by our cheerful guide and given a fairly thorough (and much appreciated) training session prior to boarding the kayaks. Apparently, the conditions were just about OK to carry on with the trip.
Once we came out of the cove and hit the wind and waves we got a bit of a surprise. As our guide said, we needed to start paddling seriously and not like we were out for a casual Sunday stroll. Fortunately, the coast is riddled with gorgeous, calm coves so our guides were able to balance the trip between hard paddling and rest times. The coves are so tranquil and the water is crystal clear. There were several little caves we were guided through and our guides were very knowledgeable and enthusiastic.
In one cave we paddled into total darkness. At one point all I could see were the white paddles of the kaya in front of me and then, nothing. Have to admit I battled quite a number of fears on this trip.
I was looking forward to a swim when we stopped to rest. Snacks and drinks were provided at that point. I felt like the break was quite short when we were ready to head back again. I could have stayed in that cove for the whole afternoon.
At that point we had to decide whether we were going to paddle back or return on the “rescue” boat. I forgot to mention that there was a boat that accompanied us on the whole trip which gave me a great sense of security in case of capsizing (or exhaustion). Two of our party decided they had had enough and took the boat back. I was somewhat inclined to do the same but our guide and my partner convinced me that I’d manage the last 20 minutes or so it would take to return.
I really thought I had made a mistake (and should have joined the others on the boat) when we came out of the cove and hit the head wind and waves. At this point my only thought was to paddle for survival and try not to capsize the kayak while our guide was yee-hawing and riding the waves like a bucking bronco.
10 minutes on and another cove break was required so we could regain our strength for the final paddle into Tamariu. On the final leg, my partner tipped his kayak and had to be picked up by the rescue boat. So, out of 6 persons in our group, only three of us paddled back in – exhausted but exhilarated!
Being a middle aged couple that are not particularly fit, this was not the trip we were expecting but I’d say, probably better than I thought. We will certainly remember this part of our holiday. The guides were both great and their enthusiasm really kept us going.
Looking forward to the photos. Haven't seen them on the web site yet but hoping they will appear soon!
The Tuesday dawned and the weather looked better to us, so we set off to Tamariu. Of note, parking was readily available at 8.45 am and you can’t miss the kayaks in the middle of the beach. We were greeted by our cheerful guide and given a fairly thorough (and much appreciated) training session prior to boarding the kayaks. Apparently, the conditions were just about OK to carry on with the trip.
Once we came out of the cove and hit the wind and waves we got a bit of a surprise. As our guide said, we needed to start paddling seriously and not like we were out for a casual Sunday stroll. Fortunately, the coast is riddled with gorgeous, calm coves so our guides were able to balance the trip between hard paddling and rest times. The coves are so tranquil and the water is crystal clear. There were several little caves we were guided through and our guides were very knowledgeable and enthusiastic.
In one cave we paddled into total darkness. At one point all I could see were the white paddles of the kaya in front of me and then, nothing. Have to admit I battled quite a number of fears on this trip.
I was looking forward to a swim when we stopped to rest. Snacks and drinks were provided at that point. I felt like the break was quite short when we were ready to head back again. I could have stayed in that cove for the whole afternoon.
At that point we had to decide whether we were going to paddle back or return on the “rescue” boat. I forgot to mention that there was a boat that accompanied us on the whole trip which gave me a great sense of security in case of capsizing (or exhaustion). Two of our party decided they had had enough and took the boat back. I was somewhat inclined to do the same but our guide and my partner convinced me that I’d manage the last 20 minutes or so it would take to return.
I really thought I had made a mistake (and should have joined the others on the boat) when we came out of the cove and hit the head wind and waves. At this point my only thought was to paddle for survival and try not to capsize the kayak while our guide was yee-hawing and riding the waves like a bucking bronco.
10 minutes on and another cove break was required so we could regain our strength for the final paddle into Tamariu. On the final leg, my partner tipped his kayak and had to be picked up by the rescue boat. So, out of 6 persons in our group, only three of us paddled back in – exhausted but exhilarated!
Being a middle aged couple that are not particularly fit, this was not the trip we were expecting but I’d say, probably better than I thought. We will certainly remember this part of our holiday. The guides were both great and their enthusiasm really kept us going.
Looking forward to the photos. Haven't seen them on the web site yet but hoping they will appear soon!
Written 23 June 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello Chris
I really liked your opinion, not just because it is very detailed about the events that occurred from the moment you decided to reserve until you could enjoy the photographs, but also because you express your feelings. These fears that you went through and finally you could enjoy the beautiful Costa Brava, during a litle bit "Brava" afternoon "brave" (brava means brave).
Toni
Written 1 July 2017
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
shelly16894
Manchester, UK3 contributions
Sept 2017 • Couples
Beautiful beach with fab little coves and inlets to explore. Our guide Elena was experienced, helpful and chatty, and the whole vibe of the team that run the tour make it a friendly, sociable experience. Lunch was way better than expected, and the time given afterwards to chill around the beach is a great idea - to enjoy a beer or take the walk around the bay to the viewing spots (not many people do this but highly recommended it made the day for us and gives you better value for money from the tour). Plus your guides take waterproof cameras out with them so no need to worry about taking pictures!! Clearly a well thought-out day with great attention to detail, would recommend especially for those that want to experience costa Brava but don't have a car / want to take chances with sporadic public transport.
Written 7 September 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
trvl09
USA82 contributions
Sept 2016 • Couples
We did Tamariu North tour with the company. I appreciated the time spent discussing the basics of kayaking before jumping into the boats. The sea was a bit choppy this morning which made paddling outside of protected areas challenging. They do a lot to make the trips interesting in terms of manuvers through different spaces however when the tour is full with 12 people I felt we spent some time waiting around. At the end I felt it was a bit long. In any case the guides were friendly and knowledgable. We also appreciated that he took the time to translate for us even though we were only 3 english speakers in the group. They also take photos during the trip which are then made available to you online, for free. The kayaks are decent kayaks (sit in sea kayaks with skirts and places for your feet) when compared to the sit on kayaks the same company rents from the beach when you don't do a tour. They offer to store small things (car keys, phones) in a locked cabinent when you go out and provide a large dry bag for towels, etc for the entire group that stays in the boat. We were back from the morning trip in time to have lunch at one of the restaurants on the water.
I would go out with the company again but would choose a less popular route and I would be sure to bring my own dry bag.
I would go out with the company again but would choose a less popular route and I would be sure to bring my own dry bag.
Written 8 September 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for your feedback always helps us improve. Thank you especially for your words on explanations in English, have participants in several languages is something that concerns us and we are glad that we are doing well. As you rightly say, our guided tour TAMARIU NORTH is the most popular but there are other equally beautiful. We hope you come again and enjoy it them!
Written 9 September 2016
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Marshy1822
LANCASTER54 contributions
Jul 2016 • Couples
My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed our kayaking adventure with Kayaking Costa Brava. Our excursion departed from Tamariu, and our guides were incredible. There is no better way to see the coast of the Costa Brava than by boat or kayak. In a kayak, we were able to fit through small areas between rocks and explore caves, which was a unique experience.
Within our group there were kayakers speaking three different languages. Throughout the tour our guides communicated efficiently with every group, repeating the directions in French, English, and Catalan.
My husband and I are both physically fit and experienced kayakers. For us, the kayaking conditions we experienced on the tour were easy. Within our group, there were many kayakers who were kayaking for the first time, and the guides took the time to make sure that everyone in the group was comfortable and knew what to do in different situations. Unfortunately one of our group members flipped her kayak, the guide in the small boat and the guide in the kayak were both extremely quick to respond and help her back into her kayak. They clearly were very safety minded, and both guides were constantly keeping a watchful eye over the entire group.
Kayaking along the Costa Brave was one of the best experiences of our trip! I highly recommend signing up (in advance) for a tour!
Within our group there were kayakers speaking three different languages. Throughout the tour our guides communicated efficiently with every group, repeating the directions in French, English, and Catalan.
My husband and I are both physically fit and experienced kayakers. For us, the kayaking conditions we experienced on the tour were easy. Within our group, there were many kayakers who were kayaking for the first time, and the guides took the time to make sure that everyone in the group was comfortable and knew what to do in different situations. Unfortunately one of our group members flipped her kayak, the guide in the small boat and the guide in the kayak were both extremely quick to respond and help her back into her kayak. They clearly were very safety minded, and both guides were constantly keeping a watchful eye over the entire group.
Kayaking along the Costa Brave was one of the best experiences of our trip! I highly recommend signing up (in advance) for a tour!
Written 9 August 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gracias por tus palabras. Sobretodo por el comentario sobre los idiomas, ya que es una cosa que nos preocupa pero nos alegra saber que no ha sido un problema.
Nos alegramos que la experiencia os gustara tanto, y como tu dices es importante reservar (sobre todo con antelación! ) Hasta la próxima!
Written 16 August 2016
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Paul H
Bingley64 contributions
Aug 2015 • Family
We are a family of four, with two kids who have kayaked before, but my wife and I were novices. Roger and Miguel were fantastic guides, keeping the balance between running the trip for everyone but trekking back now and then to look after us. Instructions were in Spanish and English (excellent from both guys) and we had a superb morning doing some pretty scary stuff in and out of caves and coves on the Tamariu trip. We felt 100% safe at all times and would highly recommend Kayaking Costa Brava to anyone who wants to have great fun with professional trainers who really have a passion for what they do. We also learnt some new stuff (handling spiny seas urchins is something I never expected to do!) as well as new skills - all in all a great company and a fabulous excursion!
Written 19 August 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sarah M
6 contributions
Jul 2022 • Family
Super fun. Guides were a blast. A little miscommunication. 1.5 hour trip to and from which wasn’t mentioned in the description, so it is really only 3 hours, not 6.
Written 8 July 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
irelandCk1
Waterford, Ireland8 contributions
Jun 2022 • Solo
Hiya just want to say what an amazing Kayak lesson I had with instructor Guifre he asked me what I want out of the lesson so for me it was low and high brace and of course to help out with the Eskimo Roll he went through all the tips and moves on the beach then out in the water where I felt relaxed and step by step I got there and completed the roll so thrilled with the whole experience Big Thanks to the Lad’s for a Fantastic experience. Thanks again Liam from Ireland.
Written 3 July 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jen
17 contributions
Jun 2022 • Family
We had such a wonderful time on our kayak tour from Playa El Castell! We took our two teens with us - one who is outgoing and athletic and one who is more reserved and cautious. Both kids had a great time. One multiple occasions I overheard the guide encouraging my daughter and telling her what a great job she was doing - and I believe that definitely helped her to come out with a positive outlook on the trip.
There were a range of languages spoken in our larger group of 12 and the guides were wonderful with translating to English for us and one other couple.
There was enough adventure (caves, tunnels and rocky passes, and a break to swim/snorkel at a small beach) and also support (the zodiac that followed along the whole way was very reassuring!).
It was also super that they took photos for us along the way so that we had some great souvenirs for later (that you can download for free within a day or so).
This was definitely a highlight of our visit to the Costa Brava region and was a wonderful way to see the gorgeous coast. We’d definitely do it again if we come back to the area!
There were a range of languages spoken in our larger group of 12 and the guides were wonderful with translating to English for us and one other couple.
There was enough adventure (caves, tunnels and rocky passes, and a break to swim/snorkel at a small beach) and also support (the zodiac that followed along the whole way was very reassuring!).
It was also super that they took photos for us along the way so that we had some great souvenirs for later (that you can download for free within a day or so).
This was definitely a highlight of our visit to the Costa Brava region and was a wonderful way to see the gorgeous coast. We’d definitely do it again if we come back to the area!
Written 1 July 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
jordibesalu
8 contributions
Aug 2020 • Family
We have use their services some times and it has always been very good.
People are very kind and they explained us everything very well: how to use the equipment, where to go...
Equipments are new and clean.
People are very kind and they explained us everything very well: how to use the equipment, where to go...
Equipments are new and clean.
Written 17 August 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi, I'm interested in going on your guided excursion from Tamariu to the Cova d’en Gispert. How would we head back after reaching Cova d'en Gispert?
Written 4 August 2019
Hi there, the Tamariu guided tour is a round trip excursion. Please visit our website or give us a phonecall at +34 972 773 806 if you are interested in joining this tour.
Written 5 August 2019
mariamufski
Birmingham, United Kingdom
Hello,
I am travelling to Girona on the 18th of May. We are staying at the Hotel el pins, platja. Can you tell me which of your sites is closest to our hotel? Or which is the best place for us tp get the best experience from?
Many thanks,
Maria.
Written 23 April 2018
Hello Maria,
In May we can offer guided kayak tours, but we need a minimum of 8 people to confirm a tour, so depending on the requests the excursions can be in different locations.
If you are interested in doing a guided kayak tour please send us an email with your request. and we will inform you.
You can also rent kayaks in Portlligat ( Cadaqués) with advance booking by calling +34646901588. Portlligat is 2h from Platja d'Aro (where you will be on the Costa Brava).
Thank you
Written 5 May 2018
sdebaireid
Dublin, Ireland
How much would it cost for a family of four two aged 14 and 15 and my wife and I
Written 16 April 2018
Hello, thank you for contacting us; regarding your request, if you want to do a half-day guided tour the cost is 50 € per person
If you want to rent kayaks :
Rental prices for Sit on Top kayaks
PLATJA CASTELL, TAMARIU, CALA MONTGÓ, PORTLLIGAT
price/hour
12 € single
18 € double
25 € family
3/4 hours pack
31 € single
50 € double
70 € family
1 day pack
45 € single
75 € double
105 € family
* Family kayak: 2 adults and 2 children.
Thank you very much,
Kayaking
hace 20 horas
Written 18 April 2018
dove si trova questa spiaggia? dove si può fare questa escursione?
Written 20 June 2015
Hola, nos puedes encontrar en cuatro puntos de la Costa Brava. Estamos en las siguientes playas:
- Castell (Palamos)
- Tamariu (Palafrugell)
- Cala Montgó (L'Escala)
- Portlligat (Cadaqués)
Written 22 June 2015
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