Sunset Kayak Adventure & Caves Tour, Swimming & Aperitif

A Sunset Kayak Adventure in La Spezia: Discovering the Hidden Coastline

If you’re visiting La Spezia and looking for a way to see the coast from a fresh perspective, the Sunset Kayak Adventure & Caves Tour offers a memorable highlight. For around $85, you’ll spend about three and a half hours paddling along the eastern coast of the Bay of Poets, an area famous for its tiny coves, sea caves, and dramatic rocky stacks. Led by knowledgeable guides, this trip promises a blend of natural beauty, quiet moments, and a well-earned sunset aperitivo.

What we love most about this experience are the exclusive access to protected areas—only reachable by sea—and the chance to unwind in tranquil waters away from noisy motorboats. Plus, the sunset view from the beach with snacks and drinks in hand makes for a perfect close to the day. On the flip side, this is not a beginner-friendly activity, as it involves some effort and rocky patches, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a bit of physical activity.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic outdoor activities, appreciate authentic coastal views, and are seeking a relaxed yet adventurous way to explore Italy’s Ligurian coast. Perfect for couples, small groups, or even families with children who have some paddling experience, it offers a genuine, off-the-beaten-path experience.

This experience made our article of La Spezia’s 15 Top Tours (With Prices).

Key Points

• Exclusive Access: Visit protected coves and sea caves only accessible by kayak.
• Guided Experience: Led by friendly, knowledgeable guides who ensure safety and share local insights.
• Optimal Timing: Set off at 5:00 pm for the best light and sunset photography.
• Inclusive Equipment: Kayaks, paddles, life jackets, waterproof gear, and lockers provided.
• Relaxed Pace: Suitable for those comfortable with a bit of physical activity; helpful guides assist if needed.
• Authentic Experience: Enjoy swimming, photo stops, and a sunset aperitivo on the beach.
• Small Group: Max of 20 travelers ensures a personal, attentive experience.
• Good Value: Well-priced for a multi-faceted, scenic adventure that’s both fun and memorable.

Exploring La Spezia’s Coast by Kayak: An Authentic Experience

Paddling along La Spezia’s coast in a sit-on-top kayak provides a perspective most travelers miss. The Bay of Poets is a stretch of shoreline dotted with tiny coves, rocky formations, and caves, all shimmering under the late afternoon sun. This is a landscape that invites exploration, and with guides leading the way, you’ll feel both secure and intrigued.

Starting right on the beach at Baia Blu, the tour kicks off with a brief safety and equipment overview. Here, you’ll receive a high-performance kayak—either single or double—and a paddle. The guides, Luca and Davide, stand out based on reviews for their helpfulness and friendliness. They ensure everyone feels comfortable, whether it’s helping with paddling or managing rocky patches.

The first part of the trip takes you past the charming villages of San Terenzo and Lerici. These historic spots add a scenic backdrop as you glide by, offering glimpses of colorful houses and medieval castles from the water. The journey then turns towards the quieter, more secluded areas—hidden coves and sea caves that are only accessible from the sea.

The experience is designed to be relaxed. You’re paddling at a pace that allows for plenty of time to take photos, swim in clear waters, or just enjoy the silence punctuated only by the splash of paddles and gentle waves. Reviewers have praised the guides’ patience and the small-group setting, which keeps the experience intimate and personalized.

What makes this trip particularly special is the timing. Departing at 5 pm means you’re paddling into the golden hour, as the sky turns shades of pink and orange. This not only enhances the visual spectacle but also makes for fantastic photo opportunities.

What to Expect at Each Stop

Meet and Greet and Safety Briefing

Your adventure begins on the beach of Baia Blu, where your guides Luca and Davide welcome you with a warm smile. After a quick safety briefing, you’re suited up with waterproof bags and gear to keep your belongings dry, including your phone. The group size is capped at 20, ensuring a friendly, attentive environment.

Paddling Past San Terenzo and Lerici

Once on the water, you’ll start paddling along the coast, passing the picturesque villages. Expect stunning views of medieval castles and colorful houses on the hillsides. These spots are ideal for photos and get you comfortable paddling while soaking in the scenery.

Hidden Coves and Sea Caves

The true highlights are the secret coves and caves along the shoreline. These are areas that motorboats can’t reach, making them feel like your own private paradise. Some reviewers have described swimming in these waters as “like heaven,” and the caves provide a cool, shaded retreat from the sun.

Swimming and Relaxation

There are several stops where you can take a refreshing swim, surrounded by quiet and clear waters. The guides are helpful in assisting with entry and exit, especially for families or less experienced paddlers.

Sunset Aperitivo

As the sun begins to dip, the tour heads back towards the beach where an aperitivo awaits. Light snacks and drinks—local wine, prosecco, or soft drinks—are served, allowing everyone to unwind and reflect on the experience. Reviewers found this part “super,” with many noting the combination of stunning scenery and tasty bites made for a wonderful ending.

Back to Base

After the aperitivo, you’ll paddle back to Baia Blu, usually in the warm glow of sunset, feeling a mix of relaxed and exhilarated. Many mention the guides’ effort to help with transportation back to La Spezia if needed, which is a thoughtful touch.

Equipment and Safety

The tour provides high-quality sit-on-top kayaks, chosen for their stability and ease of use. Whether you opt for a single or double kayak, paddling is manageable with the provided paddles. Life jackets are mandatory and included, and waterproof bags keep phones and wallets safe during swims and paddling. Small lockers are available, adding convenience for your personal belongings.

While most reviews emphasize the friendly, professional nature of the guides, a few mention that the experience might be challenging for absolute beginners—particularly because it’s a longer paddle and involves rocky patches. However, the guides’ assistance with help and the option to go in tandem or seek help means most paddlers will find it manageable.

Practicalities and Logistics

The tour begins at 5:00 pm from Baia Blu in Lerici, a scenic spot well-connected by local transport, with options for taxis or parking. The duration is approximately 3.5 hours, including paddling, stops, swimming, and the sunset aperitivo, making it a well-paced outing.

The maximum group size is 20, which keeps things intimate and manageable. The activity is suitable for most travelers, with most reviews noting it’s accessible to those with some paddling experience but not necessarily for complete beginners. The tour is weather-dependent—if conditions are poor, it will be canceled with a full refund or rescheduling offered.

Booking is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, a helpful feature for uncertain weather.

The Real Value

At $85, this tour offers a comprehensive experience—stunning scenery, quiet coves, sea caves, swimming, and a sunset aperitivo—all guided by friendly, professional staff. The equipment, safety gear, and small group size add to the value, ensuring comfort and personal attention. The guided nature also means you get insights into the local coastline, making the experience both scenic and educational.

The reviews agree that guides Luca and Davide are a highlight, making everyone feel comfortable, even those less experienced. For those looking to escape the crowds and discover the secret corners of La Spezia’s coast, this tour stands out as a genuine adventure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, have some paddling experience or are comfortable with light physical exertion, and want to see La Spezia from a different angle. It suits couples seeking a romantic sunset experience, families with kids who can paddle confidently, or small groups of friends wanting a fun, scenic outing. If you love photography or simply want a peaceful beachside experience with a touch of adventure, this tour will not disappoint.

However, it might not be ideal for those with mobility issues or who prefer a more relaxed, land-based sightseeing day, given the physical aspect and some rocky patches.

Final Thoughts

The Sunset Kayak Adventure & Caves Tour offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and stunning views at a fair price. The experience of paddling in pristine waters, exploring hidden caves, and watching the sunset over the Ligurian coast creates lasting memories. The guides’ friendly and helpful attitude makes it accessible and enjoyable, even for those new to kayaking.

If you’re after a unique, authentic way to experience Italy’s coast, this tour delivers. It’s especially rewarding if you enjoy being outdoors, want to avoid crowded tourist spots, and are open to a bit of physical activity in exchange for spectacular scenery and a delicious sunset drink.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours and 30 minutes, including paddling, stops, swimming, and the sunset aperitivo.

What is included in the price?
You get a high-performance kayak (single or double), paddles, life jackets, waterproof gear for your phone and belongings, and a small locker. Snacks and drinks for the sunset aperitivo are also included.

Is this activity suitable for beginners?
Most reviews suggest it’s manageable for those with some paddling experience. The guides help with assistance, and tandem kayaking is available. However, it’s not recommended for complete novices who aren’t comfortable with physical activity or rocky waters.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera or phone in the waterproof case, wear comfortable clothing suitable for paddling, and possibly a hat or sunglasses. The waterproof gear provided will keep your valuables dry.

What’s the best time to go?
The tour departs at 5:00 pm, timed for sunset and the best lighting for photos. The late afternoon is ideal for golden-hour views.

Will I see caves?
Yes, the tour includes visits to sea caves accessible only by kayak, which are some of the most praised aspects of the trip.

Is transportation provided?
No, transportation to the meeting point is not included, but the location in Lerici is accessible by local transport or car.

Can service animals join?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions are poor, it will be canceled with the option for a full refund or rescheduling. You’ll be informed in advance.

This kayak tour offers a rare glimpse of La Spezia’s coastline at its most tranquil and beautiful. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a curious beginner, it promises a relaxing and visually rewarding experience that’s hard to match.