Lanzarote isn’t just about volcanic landscapes and surreal scenery; it’s also a fantastic playground for canoe and kayak enthusiasts. The island’s calm, clear waters, especially around beaches like Papagayo, make it ideal for both beginners and seasoned paddlers. We’ve tried to pick tours that balance adventure and comfort, offering everything from relaxing paddles along rugged coastlines to more active explorations with snorkelling. One standout is the Kayak & Snorkelling in Papagayo, which combines gentle kayaking with the chance to peek beneath the waves and enjoy a picnic — perfect for families or those new to water sports.
Lanzarote’s diverse shoreline provides a perfect setting for water-based activities. Whether you want a quick lesson, a guided kayak trip, or a paddleboarding session, this list covers it all. And with options for small groups, expert guides, and beautiful locations like Playa Blanca and Los Ajaches, it’s easy to find an experience that suits your style and fitness level.
Quick Overview
Our list features 10 top canoe and kayak experiences in Lanzarote, including guided tours, multi-activity days, and beginner lessons. Some, like Lanzarote: Kayak and Snorkeling at Papagayo Beach, highlight the stunning scenery of Papagayo’s coves. Others, like Stand Up Paddle Boarding Lessons, focus on teaching newcomers how to balance and paddle with confidence. There are also more extensive excursions, such as the Kayak Excursion to Papagayo, which offers a longer, more immersive adventure. Each experience is tailored for different interests, from family-friendly outings to active exploration.
Now, let’s dive into the details of each tour on our list.
1. Kayak & Snorkelling in Papagayo
Starting our list is the Kayak & Snorkelling in Papagayo, a top-rated tour with a perfect 5.0/5 from 240 reviews. Priced at $57.05 per person for about three hours, it’s an excellent choice for families and beginners. The tour includes all necessary equipment, such as wetsuits and snorkelling gear, and takes you along some of Lanzarote’s most famous beaches, culminating at Papagayo Beach, one of the island’s most beautiful stretches of sand.
What makes this experience stand out is the combination of kayaking and snorkelling. The crew is praised for their friendly guidance and safety-conscious approach, making even nervous paddlers feel comfortable. During the trip, you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch, adding a casual, relaxing element to the adventure. While some reviews mention wave conditions affecting snorkelling visibility, many guests rave about the abundant fish and tropical waters.
This tour is suitable for beginners and families with kids as young as ten. The focus is on fun, safety, and enjoying Lanzarote’s stunning coastline. It’s a good value, well-organized half-day outing that balances activity with plenty of opportunities to relax and take in the scenery.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families and first-timers, this tour combines kayaking, snorkelling, and a scenic coastal paddle, offering a well-rounded Lanzarote water adventure.
2. Lanzarote: Kayak and Snorkeling at Papagayo Beach
Coming in close with a 4.8/5 rating from 374 reviews, the Lanzarote: Kayak and Snorkeling at Papagayo Beach offers an equally compelling experience. For $59 per person, it’s a three-hour journey that emphasizes marveling at the spectacular landscape of Papagayo from both above and below the water.
This tour excels at showcasing the rugged cliffs and clear waters that make Papagayo a standout destination. You’ll paddle along the coast, stopping for snorkelling sessions in the transparent waters teeming with marine life. The guides are praised for their friendly, informative style, making the trip both educational and fun.
The highlight here is the chance to enjoy unique views of the coastline and explore a variety of underwater habitats. It’s perfect for those who want a balance of scenic paddling and snorkelling in a smaller group setting. The tour runs year-round, making it flexible for any travel plans.
Bottom Line: Great for nature lovers who want both scenery and snorkelling, this tour provides a balanced afternoon of paddling and exploring Lanzarote’s marine life.
3. SUP Standup Paddling and Snorkeling Shared Experience
At number 3, the SUP Standup Paddling and Snorkeling Shared Experience earns a perfect 5.0/5 from 31 reviews. For $58.22, you’ll spend about two hours discovering Playa Blanca from both above and below the surface. All equipment, including wetsuits and snorkel gear, is provided, and the small group size (up to six people) ensures personalized attention.
This tour blends stand-up paddleboarding with snorkelling, making it ideal for travelers wanting a multi-activity outing. The instructor offers tips on technique and points out the best spots for fish and coral, adding an educational element. The shallow, calm waters of Playa Blanca make it accessible for beginners, and reviews mention how friendly and supportive the instructor is.
While windy days might limit some paddling, guests often praise the chance to see abundant fish and enjoy the ease of combining two watersports in one session. It’s a good choice for those who want a quick, fun introduction to paddleboarding with some snorkelling thrown in.
Bottom Line: Perfect for mixed-sport lovers and those new to paddleboarding, this small-group experience offers a relaxed, guided way to enjoy Playa Blanca’s waters.
4. Kayak Excursion to Papagayo
For around $110, the Kayak Excursion to Papagayo is a longer, more involved adventure, lasting about four hours. It starts from Playa de Las Coloradas and takes you about 6 km along the coast to the famous Playa Papagayo, a favorite for its beauty and tranquility. The tour includes a rest stop with snacks and drinks, and it’s designed for paddlers of various skill levels.
What sets this trip apart is the combination of kayaking and snorkelling, with the added thrill of exploring marine fauna via masks and fins. The guide Alessandro is highly praised for his knowledge and safety-conscious approach, making even first-timers feel confident. Guests especially like the opportunity to visit less touristy spots and enjoy the natural beauty at a relaxed pace.
Reviews note that the trip is fun, factual, and physically rewarding. It’s best suited for travelers who want a more immersive experience with a good mix of paddling, wildlife viewing, and beach time.
Bottom Line: For active travelers seeking a longer, scenic paddle with snorkelling and well-led guidance, this tour delivers a memorable day on the water.
5. Stand Up Paddle Boarding Lesson in Playa Flamingo
At $65.22 per person, the Stand Up Paddle Boarding Lesson in Playa Flamingo is perfect for beginners eager to learn the basics. The roughly two-hour session focuses on helping newcomers stand up, paddle, and develop confidence. The instructor emphasizes simple techniques and personalized support, making it approachable for all ages.
The calm waters of Playa Flamingo are an ideal training ground, and reviews repeatedly commend the instructor’s patience and clarity. Many guests mention how quickly they managed to stand and paddle confidently, often feeling inspired to rent gear afterward. This experience is best suited for those who want a focused lesson rather than a lengthy tour, with the added benefit of practicing in a safe environment.
The tour is flexible in timing and includes all necessary equipment, giving you a stress-free way to try paddleboarding for the first time.
Bottom Line: Great for beginners and families, this lesson offers a supportive environment to learn paddleboarding in Lanzarote’s calm coastal waters.
6. Stand Up Paddle Course
For those wanting a quick but thorough introduction to paddleboarding, the Stand Up Paddle Course offers an hour of instruction at $80.25. Led by a professional instructor, this class is ideal for those who want personalized coaching and to improve their skills rapidly. Transfers from your hotel are available, making it easy to get there.
Reviewers appreciate Marcos’s friendly style and the small group size, which ensures focused guidance. With tailored techniques, you’ll learn how to paddle effectively and balance confidently, even in slightly challenging conditions. It’s suited for those who have a couple of hours to spare and want a comprehensive, hands-on experience.
This course is more than just a lesson—it’s a chance to gain practical skills that will allow you to paddle independently afterward.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those short on time but eager to learn proper paddleboarding techniques, this course boosts confidence quickly.
7. Playa Blanca: Stand up paddle class for beginners
For $63, this beginners’ paddleboarding class at Playa Blanca offers a 1.5-hour introduction to stand-up paddling. It’s ideal for families or anyone wanting to get their feet wet (literally). The class emphasizes learning in a friendly, relaxed way, with a focus on safety and technique.
Guests consistently praise the instructor’s support and the clarity of instructions. Many mention that by the end, they felt confident enough to rent gear and paddle on their own. The calm, shallow waters of Playa Blanca make it an excellent spot for learning, and the experience is suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
The class timing varies, so checking availability is advised, but booking early is recommended as spots fill quickly.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for complete beginners wanting a short, supportive lesson in a beautiful setting.
8. Kayak Experience in Playa Blanca
The Kayak Experience in Playa Blanca is a flexible, all-day adventure with a 5 km coastal paddle. It’s perfect for those who want a guided, relaxed trip with options to explore at their own pace. Small groups ensure personal attention from guides, who share local insights along the way.
The route covers iconic sights like Castillo del Aguila and hidden coves, making it more than just a paddle — it’s a scenic tour with a bit of history thrown in. Reviewers mention Alessandro’s excellent tips on paddling techniques and how he took plenty of photos, making it a memorable, personalized outing. It’s suitable for all levels, from beginners to more experienced paddlers.
This tour is ideal if you want a full day of fun, exploration, and learning, with the option to stop and snorkel or relax along the coast.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a longer, scenic, and flexible experience with expert guidance.
9. Stand Up Paddle Las Palmas Beginner Lesson
Priced at $52.14, this Las Palmas beginner lesson is a short, one-and-a-half-hour class designed to help newcomers learn paddleboarding in a safe environment. The certified guide teaches correct paddling techniques and the benefits of the sport, emphasizing fun and practical skills.
Ideal for first-timers or those looking for a quick introductory session, reviews highlight the instructor’s clear instructions and supportive approach. It’s a good entry point for anyone wanting to try paddleboarding without committing to a full tour.
The protected waters of Las Palmas make for a calm learning environment, and the session includes all equipment needed.
Bottom Line: Perfect for beginners wanting a quick, friendly introduction to paddleboarding in Lanzarote.
$52.14 per person
10. Papagayo: Kayak Experience in Los Ajaches Natural Monument
Our final pick is the Papagayo: Kayak Experience in Los Ajaches Natural Monument. For $79, it’s a full-day, approximately 6 km tour along the stunning coastline, ending with a snorkeling session at Papagayo Beach. It’s suitable for all skill levels, with small groups ensuring personal attention.
This trip combines paddling and snorkeling, with an emphasis on exploring the natural beauty of the Los Ajaches area. Guests appreciate the detailed guidance and the chance to visit less crowded spots away from typical tourist beaches. The guide provides insight into local wildlife and geography, making it educational as well as fun.
Perfect for those who want a comprehensive experience of Lanzarote’s coast, this tour offers a full day of active exploration and relaxation.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for paddlers who want to experience both land and sea in a scenic, less crowded setting.
$79 per person
How to Choose the Best Canoe & Kayak Experience in Lanzarote
When selecting a tour, consider your fitness level, interest in snorkelling, and how much time you want to spend on the water. For families or beginners, the Kayak & Snorkelling in Papagayo or Stand Up Paddle Paddling Lessons offer straightforward, enjoyable options. If you’re after a longer, more scenic adventure, the Kayak Excursion to Papagayo provides a full-day experience with marine exploration.
Budget-conscious travelers might prefer shorter lessons like Playa Blanca: Stand up paddle class for beginners, while those seeking a more immersive trip should consider the Papagayo Kayak Experience in Los Ajaches.
Booking early, especially in summer months, ensures availability, as these activities tend to fill up quickly. Always check whether transfers are included if you don’t have a rental car.
Lanzarote’s waters are calling — from tranquil bays perfect for beginners to adventurous coastlines for seasoned paddlers. With such a range of options, you’re sure to find a canoe or kayak experience that fits your style and makes your trip memorable. Don’t wait too long to book — Lanzarote is popular for water sports, and these tours fill fast. Happy paddling!