Paddle Boarding Experience in Portofino

This experience made our article of Which Portofino Canoe & Kayak Experiences To Choose? We Rank The 3 Best.

Experience the Water and Views with Paddleboarding in Portofino

Imagine gliding quietly across the calm waters of the Bay of Paraggi, where the colorful buildings of Portofino seem to dance in the sunlight. For $58.15 per person, you can spend about an hour and a half on a paddleboarding adventure guided by local experts, with the promise of some of the best views Italy’s Ligurian coast has to offer. The activity takes place in the protected waters of the Bay of Paraggi, away from the hustle and bustle of the harbor, making it ideal for a relaxed day on the water.

What makes this tour particularly appealing are two standout features: no prior paddleboarding experience is needed, making it accessible for nearly everyone, and the small group size ensures personalized attention from your guide. You’ll get close enough to Portofino to admire its vibrant facades and charming details—something you simply cannot do from a boat or from land.

One possible consideration is that you’ll need to be comfortable swimming, as this is a water-based activity. Also, the tour does not include hotel pickup, so you’ll want to plan your transportation to the starting point. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy gentle outdoor activities, want a unique perspective on Portofino, and value the expertise of knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• Accessible for all experience levels: No need to be an expert, just a willingness to try.
• Stunning water views: See Portofino from a fresh, close-up angle.
• Small group setting: More personalized guidance and attention.
• All equipment provided: Paddleboard, paddle, lifejacket, wetsuit.
• Ideal for water lovers and outdoor enthusiasts: Especially those who enjoy a relaxed pace.
• Weather-dependent: Cancellations due to poor weather are possible, with full refunds or rescheduling.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Location and Meeting Point

The tour begins at Outdoor Portofino in Niasca, within the Bay of Paraggi. This area is a protected, sandy beach surrounded by green Mediterranean scrub, offering a peaceful setting away from busy Portofino’s harbor. The meeting spot is conveniently within walking distance from central Portofino, about 20 minutes on foot, with a pedestrian-friendly path that makes for a pleasant approach. This is especially helpful if you’re arriving from a cruise or nearby hotel, as many reviewers mention walking to the base without issue.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

The tour kicks off at 2:00 pm, giving you the afternoon to enjoy the light and warmth of the Ligurian sun. After a brief safety briefing and introduction to paddleboarding equipment—wetsuit, paddle, and lifejacket—you’ll be ready to hit the water.

The main activity lasts around 30 minutes and takes place in the Bay of Paraggi, a calm, sheltered area free from the nautical traffic that dominates other parts of the coast. Here, the focus is on relaxed paddling and taking in the scenery. The fact that the bay is free of boats means you’ll have an unobstructed view of Portofino’s brightly colored buildings, making for some truly stunning photo opportunities.

Highlights and Unique Aspects

One of the standout features of this tour is the ability to get close enough to Portofino to see its details—from the pastel facades to the tiny port filled with boats. Unlike boat tours, which keep a distance, paddleboarding allows a more intimate and leisurely exploration. The guides are local and highly knowledgeable, often sharing interesting snippets of the area’s history, climate, and local culture, as one reviewer shared: “Gabriel was a wonderful guide, sharing some of the history of the area.”

The small-group size (maximum of 15 participants) is another major plus. It means more time with your guide, personalized instruction if needed, and a more relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Reviewers praised guides like Manuel and Sarah for their patience and expertise, making the experience accessible and enjoyable even for first-timers.

Equipment and Comfort

All necessary gear—paddleboard, paddle, lifejacket, wetsuit—is provided, removing any guesswork or extra costs. While wetsuits are included, travelers generally find them adequate for the water temperature in summer months. You might want to bring your own hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, water, bathing suit, and towel to stay comfortable and protect yourself from the sun.

Considerations and Practical Tips

Since good swimming ability is required, those who are not comfortable in the water might find this activity challenging. The tour is weather-dependent; if a storm or poor weather is forecasted, the activity could be canceled with a full refund or reschedule. The nautical base has lockers, but valuables are best left at your accommodation or carried at your own risk.

Transportation wise, you’ll need to arrange your own way to the meeting point, as the tour does not include hotel pickup. It’s also worth noting that this experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic waterside views, and small-group adventures.

Authenticity and the Value

What sets this paddleboarding tour apart is the chance to experience Portofino from a truly different angle—on the water, among the calm, protected waters where you get an authentic glimpse of this iconic town. The reviews highlight the expert guides and the stunning scenery as major highlights, with many describing it as one of their favorite activities in Italy.

At just over an hour and a half, including the equipment setup and paddling time, the tour offers excellent value, especially considering the small-group intimacy and the personalized attention. You’re paying for more than just physical activity; you’re investing in a memorable, low-key adventure that reveals a side of Portofino most visitors miss.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for outdoor lovers, water enthusiasts, and travelers seeking a unique perspective on Portofino. It’s especially suitable if you appreciate small-group settings, expert guiding, and scenic, peaceful waters. It’s also a good choice for those who want a gentle activity that doesn’t require prior experience but offers plenty of stunning visuals and a sense of accomplishment.

If you’re traveling with family members comfortable in water or looking to add a relaxed, engaging activity to your Portofino itinerary, this tour fits the bill. However, if you prefer land-based sightseeing or are uneasy in the water, you might want to consider other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need prior paddleboarding experience?
No, all necessary equipment is provided, and no prior experience is required. Guides will give instructions, making it accessible for beginners.

Is this suitable for children or non-swimmers?
You need to be able to swim to participate safely. If you’re unsure, consider your comfort in water before booking.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, water, a bathing suit, and a towel. The equipment is provided, but these personal items enhance your comfort.

Does the tour operate in all weather conditions?
The activity is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long does the tour last?
The paddleboarding itself lasts about 30 minutes, with total activity time around 1 hour and 30 minutes, including setup and instruction.

Where exactly does the tour start?
At Outdoor Portofino in Niasca, within the Bay of Paraggi. It’s accessible by foot from Portofino town center.

Can I cancel and get a refund?
Yes, cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are fully refundable. Less notice means no refund.

Final Thoughts

Paddleboarding in Portofino offers a rare chance to see one of Italy’s most picturesque spots from the water, away from crowds and noise. The small group setting, expert guides, and close-up views make this a truly memorable experience. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who enjoy gentle outdoor activities and want a personal, authentic glimpse of the Ligurian coast.

While the activity requires some comfort in water and good weather, the overall value and scenic payoff make it worth considering. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, seeking a peaceful break from sightseeing, or simply want to try something different, this tour provides a beautiful, relaxed adventure you’ll remember long after your trip.

In brief, this paddleboarding experience offers a unique vantage point of Portofino’s colorful charm, guided by knowledgeable locals, in a safe and friendly environment. It’s a gentle, scenic, and rewarding way to connect with Italy’s stunning coastline—and very likely one of your favorite highlights.