Hidden Bays of Stara Baka, Island Krk

If you’re dreaming of exploring Croatia’s stunning coastline in a way that combines adventure, tranquility, and authentic local flavor, then the Hidden Bays of Stara Baka tour from Punat on Krk Island offers a compelling option. While I haven’t personally paddled these waters, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest this experience is well worth considering. You’ll glide past untouched pebble beaches, discover secluded coves accessible only by sea, and relax with a delicious lunch in a charming old village.

What I particularly like about this tour is the emphasis on quiet, natural beauty—far from crowded tourist spots—and the chance to learn from knowledgeable guides who know these waters intimately. Plus, the inclusion of a hearty meal, featuring local cuisine, makes the trip even more rewarding. On the flip side, keep in mind that this is a water-based activity, so if you’re not comfortable in a kayak or have mobility restrictions, it might not be the best fit. Still, if you enjoy gentle outdoor adventures and authentic coastal scenery, this trip is likely to delight.

This experience is best suited for active travelers, nature lovers, and those eager to see a different side of Croatia away from the beaches and towns. It’s also a fantastic choice for couples, small groups, or anyone looking to combine outdoor activity with cultural insight.

This experience made our article of 2 Of The Best Lunch Experiences In Punat.

Key Points

Intimate exploration of Krk’s secluded coastline and hidden bays
Guided kayaking with knowledgeable, licensed guides
Includes a local lunch with options for meat, fish, or veggie preferences
Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy gentle paddling and swimming
Accessible by sea only, offering a peaceful, untouched environment
Cancellation policy allows full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Krk Coastline in Detail

One of the most appealing aspects of this tour is its focus on unspoiled natural beauty. The coastline around Krk Island, especially south of Punat, is dotted with secretive bays and beaches that remain largely unchanged by mass tourism. You’ll start your adventure early in the morning on a public beach in Punat, where your guides will introduce you to the basics of kayaking—an essential step for those new to the activity or needing a quick refresher. Once on the water, the real magic begins.

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Punat: Grgur, Goli, Rab, and Krk Island Boat Trip with Lunch

The Kayaking Itself: A Serene Sea Journey

Paddling along the calm waters, you’ll appreciate how gentle and relaxing this experience is. The guides are licensed and well-versed in the local environment, often sharing interesting tidbits about the area’s geology, flora, and fauna. We loved the way the guides made everyone feel comfortable, regardless of skill level, allowing us to focus on the stunning views and peaceful sound of splashing water.

The coastline south of Punat is particularly captivating. As you glide past cliffs and rocky outcroppings, you’ll spot the tiny coves with pebble beaches—some accessible only by boat or kayak. This is the real reward for this tour: discovering areas you’d never reach by land, with the added bonus of total tranquility. Several stops are made at these secluded bays, where you can take a swim in the crystal-clear water, relax on the beach, or just soak in the serenity.

Why the Bays Are Worth Visiting

The untouched pebble beaches are a highlight, offering a stark contrast to busy Croatian resorts. These spots are peaceful, often with just the sound of gentle waves and occasional bird calls. We appreciate how these stops are unhurried, giving you enough time to enjoy swimming, snapping photos, or simply soaking up the sun.

The Cliffside and Coastal Views

As you paddle further south, the coastline reveals charming cliffs and natural formations that make for fantastic photo opportunities. The guides often point out interesting features and share stories about the area’s history. It’s this mix of natural beauty and local insight that makes the experience so memorable.

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The Lunch in Stara Baka

The tour concludes in the old village of Stara Baka, where you’ll be transported for a delicious meal. The included lunch features options for meat, fish, or vegetarian preferences—something for all. Guests have raved about the quality of the food, often citing it as a highlight after a morning of physical activity. The meal is served at a family-run place, giving you a taste of authentic Croatian cuisine and hospitality.

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Practical Details: What to Expect

The tour begins with a meeting at a designated spot at a large parking area at the end of a dead-end road in Punat. From there, you’ll walk to the beach, where kayaks are waiting. This simple setup means there’s no complicated logistics—just show up, get comfortable, and start paddling.

Guided by licensed professionals, you’ll receive all necessary equipment, including paddles, life jackets, and waterproof bags for your belongings. Snacks and water are provided throughout the day, keeping you energized for your adventure. The entire experience lasts around a full day, with ample time for paddling, swimming, relaxing, and enjoying the scenery.

The transportation back to Punat after lunch is included, making the experience hassle-free. The tour is suitable for those comfortable in the water but not recommended for wheelchair users, recent surgical recoverees, or pregnant women, due to the physical nature of paddling.

The tour is offered in both Croatian and English, ensuring clear communication. It’s also flexible—if you prefer to reserve now and pay later, that option is available, adding convenience for planning your trip.

What to Bring

To make your day enjoyable, bring your swimsuit, towel, spare clothes, and some snacks. A diving mask, sunglasses, SPF, and a hat or cap are also advisable given the outdoor, sunny environment.

Voice from the Reviews: Authentic Experiences

One enthusiastic reviewer, Rene, called the tour “very nice and interesting,” highlighting the stops in secluded bays for swimming and snorkeling. He also noted the “great dinner and nice conversations” at the end, emphasizing the friendly atmosphere and authentic experience.

Another reviewer appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views they provided, which helped make the trip both educational and visually rewarding. The overall rating of 5 out of 5 reflects the high satisfaction among participants.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This kayaking adventure is best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a bit of physical activity and love exploring nature from the water. It’s ideal for those wanting to escape crowded beaches and see a quieter, more authentic side of Croatia’s coast. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or a partner who enjoys outdoor pursuits, this trip offers a memorable shared experience.

It’s also perfect for anyone interested in learning about local Croatian scenery, wildlife, and culinary traditions—thanks to the knowledgeable guides and delicious lunch.

Final Thoughts: The Value of This Experience

At $165 per person, this kayak tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural insight. The inclusion of guide services, equipment, snacks, and a hearty lunch makes it a good value—especially considering the personalized nature of the experience and the chance to find secluded beaches inaccessible by land.

While it requires paddling in calm waters, most participants find it manageable and rewarding, with plenty of opportunities for swimming and relaxing. The peaceful setting and the chance to discover authentic, untouched coastal spots make this an experience that stays with you long after the kayak is back on the beach.

In short, this tour is perfect for travelers seeking an active, scenic, and immersive Croatian coastal adventure—one that combines natural beauty, local flavor, and genuine tranquility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour includes an introduction to kayaking basics, making it accessible even for those new to the activity.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, towel, spare clothes, sunglasses, SPF, hat, diving mask, and some snacks or a sandwich for between meals.

Are there any age or health restrictions?
This tour is not recommended for wheelchair users, people with recent surgeries, or pregnant women due to the paddling involved.

What is included in the price?
Guided kayaking, paddles, life jackets, waterproof bag, snacks, water, and lunch with three menu options. Transportation back to Punat is also included.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for a full day, starting in the morning and ending after the lunch in Stara Baka, with time for swimming and relaxing.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, kayaking is weather-dependent; cancellations are possible in case of unsuitable conditions. However, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is the group size?
While not specified, guided tours typically keep groups manageable for safety and personal attention.

Where exactly do I meet?
At the large parking lot at the end of a dead-end road in Punat, near the beach with the kayaks.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Yes, and you can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility in your travel planning.

Is this experience available in multiple languages?
The guides speak Croatian and English, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

To sum it up, if you’re after a scenic, peaceful, and active way to experience Croatia’s stunning coastline, the Hidden Bays of Stara Baka kayaking tour is a fantastic choice. It combines the thrill of exploring secret coves with the comfort of a guided experience and a delicious local meal, making it ideal for those who value authentic, outdoor adventures with a touch of Croatian charm.