Lecce is famous for its baroque architecture and lively street scenes, but it’s also a fantastic base for canoe and kayak adventures. With its stunning coastline along the Ionian Sea, paddling allows you to see places inaccessible by land—hidden caves, rocky cliffs, and crystal-clear waters. We especially love the Porto Selvaggio kayak tour for its accessibility and the chance to combine a scenic paddle with cliff diving and spring immersion. It’s perfect for beginners and those seeking an active way to experience the coast’s natural beauty.
Whether you prefer exploring caves, swimming in protected waters, or enjoying a guided tour with marine biologists, Lecce offers a variety of memorable kayaking outings. Below is a quick overview of the six best options, each with its unique appeal and style.
1. Porto Selvaggio kayak tour + cliff diving + cold spring immersion
This is our top pick for its combination of nature, adventure, and beginner-friendly fun. The Porto Selvaggio kayak tour takes you along the rugged coastline overlooking the Tower of S. Maria dell’Alto. The route includes paddle stops at the famous Green Cave, the Gaia Cave, and Porto Selvaggio Bay—each offering breathtaking views and opportunities for exploration.
The highlight? Taking in a cold spring, then jumping off a cliff into the sea—an exhilarating way to cool down and enjoy the scenery. The tour lasts about three hours and is especially suitable for beginners, as the guides provide basic paddling instructions and safety tips. Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the spectacular sea caves, with one noting, “The scenery was magnificent, and the sea caves were truly a spectacular experience.”
Bottom line: This tour offers great variety, scenic caves, and a splash of adventure, making it ideal for first-timers or anyone wanting a fun, relaxed sea experience.
2. Leuca kayak tour + swimming + speleo-trek in caves
Ranking second is the Leuca kayak tour, which explores the stunning southern tip of Salento, along the Ionian coast. This tour is especially appealing for those who want a little more than just paddling—it’s a mix of beginner-friendly kayaking, swimming, and exploring caves through a speleo-trek.
The tour includes a sea kayak course led by a certified Italian Canoe and Kayak Federation instructor, perfect for newcomers. Along the route, you’ll see hidden caves and ravines, and the entire experience is tailored for comfort and safety. The reviews highlight friendly guides and beautiful scenery, with participants mentioning “the caves are simply wonderful.” The tour lasts around three hours and costs about $63.86 per person.
Bottom line: This trip offers a well-rounded taste of coastal exploration, suitable for those who want a little adventure with instruction and the chance to swim in clear waters.
3. Adventure to the caves by canoe
For those who prefer a straightforward, adventure-focused excursion, the Adventure to the caves is a great pick. Starting from Marina di Felloniche, this three-hour trip takes you among the Ionian caves with stops for swimming and snorkeling. The guided experience is accessible to all skill levels thanks to a brief safety briefing at the start.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on exploring the caves on both land and sea, offering a mix of paddling and snorkeling. The trip includes two bathing stops, giving you ample time to relax and enjoy the water. The reviews note the guide’s safety-consciousness and knowledge, with one saying, “Pasquale guided us safely through three caves and explained how to avoid underwater rocks.”
Bottom line: If your priority is exploring caves with opportunities to swim and snorkel, this is a solid choice that balances fun and safety.
4. Kayak and canoe tour to Roca Vecchia and La Grotta della Poesia
This tour is a highlight for those interested in combining history, geology, and natural beauty. The Roca Vecchia and La Grotta della Poesia experience takes you along the coast to explore the ancient caves and the famous “Pigeon Hole” pool, a natural swimming hole that’s been attracting visitors for centuries.
At around three hours, the tour offers a relaxed pace, with paddling in the clear waters of the Adriatic and stops to marvel at the geological formations and historic sites. The guides are praised for their friendliness and ability to explain the area’s origins. Reviewers mention the “beautiful sea and a nice group,” making it a suitable choice for families or casual paddlers. The cost is about $65.22 per person.
Bottom line: This trip appeals to travelers interested in combining scenic paddling with a dose of archaeology and geology—an excellent way to connect with the area’s ancient past while enjoying the coast.
5. Kayak and Canoe tour in Leuca and the Ponente Caves
The Leuca and Ponente Caves experience offers a detailed route exploring the sea caves around Santa Maria di Leuca. Starting from Marina di Felloniche, paddlers visit notable sights like the Grotta del Drago, known for its carved figures, and the Grotta degli Lovers with fresh water sources.
During about three hours on the water, you’ll visit the Grotto of the Cathedral and the famous Grotta delle Tre Porte, with its dramatic entrances. The tour is perfect for those fascinated by geological formations and the historic charm of the coastline. While reviews are limited, they praise the guides’ ability to navigate the caves safely and make the trip enjoyable.
Bottom line: For travelers interested in a guided coastal exploration with cave visits, this tour offers an immersive experience with interesting geological features and cultural stories.
6. Kayak Tour: Porto Cesareo and the Marine Protected Area
Finally, for eco-conscious travelers, the Porto Cesareo Marine Reserve offers a kayak adventure guided by a marine biologist. This approximately three-hour tour focuses on observing local flora and fauna, snorkeling among colorful fish, sea turtles, and underwater Roman ruins.
The tour emphasizes its eco-friendly approach, with stops in protected waters for swimming and snorkeling. The guide’s expertise shines, making the experience both educational and engaging. The reviews mention the “fun day exploring the area,” with one noting how the guide’s passion made the tour special.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in learning about marine ecosystems and enjoying snorkeling in a protected environment, this trip offers a relaxing yet informative outing.
$57.88 per person
How to Choose Your Ideal Canoe & Kayak Experience in Lecce
When selecting among these options, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. For a safe, beginner-friendly adventure with cliff jumping, the Porto Selvaggio tour is perfect. If you want a mix of exploration and swimming in caves, the Leuca [kayak tour] provides a comprehensive experience. For those eager to learn about marine life, the Porto Cesareo marine reserve tour is a fantastic eco-friendly choice.
Booking early is recommended, especially in high season, and consider weather conditions—calm seas make all these trips safer and more enjoyable. Some tours include instruction, so no prior experience is needed, but comfortable clothing and a spirit of adventure will serve you well.
Final Thoughts
Lecce’s coastline offers a wide variety of kayak and canoe experiences suited for different interests and skill levels. From the adventurous cliff jumps at Porto Selvaggio to the tranquil snorkeling trips at Porto Cesareo, there’s something for all seeking to explore Italy’s beautiful waters. For the best experience, consider your personal fitness and curiosity—whether you focus on caves, marine life, or simply paddling along stunning cliffs.
Don’t forget to book ahead and pick the tour that best matches your style. With options ranging from beginner lessons to full-day explorations, Lecce’s sea adventures are sure to make your trip memorable.