Olbia is a fantastic base for exploring some of Sardinia’s most beautiful waters. Its calm, clear seas and stunning coastlines make it ideal for snorkeling and kayaking. Whether you’re an active water sports enthusiast or prefer a relaxed day on the beach, Olbia offers options that stand out. We particularly like the Kayak Tour with Snorkeling and Local Aperitif for its balanced mix of adventure and local flavors, plus the chance to see abundant marine life while relaxing on gorgeous beaches.
What makes Olbia a top snorkeling destination is the variety of tours available. You can paddle around small islands, explore marine parks, or enjoy sunset trips—all with expert guides and all necessary equipment included. This guide highlights four excellent tours, each with its own flavor: from daytime kayaking to sunset paddles, to boat excursions in protected marine areas.
1. Kayak Tour with Snorkeling and Local Aperitif
This Kayak Tour with Snorkeling and Local Aperitif offers a lively way to explore Cala Suaraccia’s coastlines and small islands. It lasts around 2.5 hours and is perfect for those who want a flexible mix of activity and relaxation. The tour includes kayaking and snorkeling equipment, so you’re ready to get in the water right away. Guides lead you through scenic rock formations and along the coastline, revealing the area’s best-kept secrets.
What sets this trip apart is its inclusivity for different skill levels. Beginners can opt for the more stable double kayaks, while experienced paddlers can enjoy single kayaks. The highlight is the chance to see abundant bird and marine life while relaxing on secluded beaches. Plus, it ends with a tasting of local food and drinks, making it a great full-sensory experience. Reviewers mention the “stunning scenery” and “helpful guides,” adding to its appeal.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who want to enjoy both kayaking and snorkeling, plus a taste of local Sardinian hospitality. Price is reasonable considering the included gear and personalized guides.
2. Sunset Kayak Tour with Snorkeling and Local Aperitif
For a magical evening, the Sunset Kayak Tour with Snorkeling and Local Aperitif is hard to beat. It’s a 2.5-hour paddle along Tavolara Marine Park, timed to catch the coast at twilight. Small groups of up to ten ensure personal attention, and the guides are there to help you focus on the awe-inspiring scenery.
This tour includes single or double kayaks, depending on your experience level, and a stop on Proratora Island where you’ll explore a sea cave. The waters are calm and clear, perfect for snorkeling. The evening wraps up with music, beers, and a relaxed atmosphere on the beach, making it a memorable way to end a day. Reviews mention the “fantastic guides” and “beautiful sunset views,” emphasizing its romantic and peaceful vibe.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking a serene, scenic experience with a lively, social finish. It offers both adventure and relaxation with excellent value for the small group size.
3. Tour in rubber dinghy and snorkeling in the Protected Marine Area of Tavolara
This dinghy and snorkeling tour is a 3-hour, 45-minute adventure on a comfortable 7.5-meter rubber dinghy with a powerful 250hp engine. The boat has an awning for shade and provides a smooth ride through Tavolara’s marine protected area. The tour is led by a skipper who shares insights into the natural and historical significance of the sites visited.
The itinerary includes stops at the Natural Pools of Molara, Capo Ceraso, and coves of Tavolara, where you can swim and snorkel with free equipment on board. These spots are known for their rich marine life and spectacular rock formations. The small group size ensures a personalized experience, and the boat’s stability makes it suitable even if the water is a bit choppier.
Guests rave about seeing dolphins, colorful fish, and the stunning scenery, with an “exciting and well-organized” vibe. The tour also offers a modest snack and cold drinks to keep you energized.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a full, naturalistic experience with expert guidance in a protected area, and like the flexibility of swimming and snorkeling at multiple sites.
4. Sunrise Kayak Tour with Snorkeling and Coffee Experience
Starting your day with the Sunrise Kayak Tour with Snorkeling and Coffee means you get to witness the peaceful calm of Tavolara’s waters at dawn. The 2.5-hour tour accommodates both beginners and experienced paddlers with single and double kayaks. The early start is rewarded with a traditional Italian coffee served on the beach, a lovely touch that makes this trip unique.
This tour emphasizes small-group support with two English-speaking guides, who help you spot marine life like starfish and explore the tranquil waters of the Marine Park. The quiet morning hours offer an intimate experience, less crowded than daytime tours. Reviewers mention it as “beautiful and quiet,” with one saying, “Three of us had never been in a kayak before and it was great.” The included equipment is well-maintained, and the peaceful start makes it a perfect choice for nature lovers and early risers.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a peaceful, scenic morning of kayaking, combined with a cultural touch through the coffee and the chance to see marine animals in a serene setting.
How to Choose
Picking the right snorkeling and kayaking adventure depends on your interests, fitness level, and schedule. If you want a full day of active exploration, the Kayak Tour with Snorkeling and Local Aperitif offers a flexible outdoor experience. For a magical evening, the Sunset Kayak Tour combines scenic beauty with a relaxed social vibe.
If you’re interested in discovering Tavolara’s marine protected areas with expert commentary, the dinghy trip provides a deeper naturalistic experience, including stops at multiple snorkeling spots. Meanwhile, early risers who love peaceful mornings should consider the Sunrise Kayak Tour, for quiet waters and a fresh coffee on the beach.
Budget, time, and your preferred activity level will help narrow your choice. Booking early is recommended, especially in summer, when these tours fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
Olbia offers a diverse array of snorkeling experiences, from active daytime kayaking to sunset paddles and boat trips into protected marine areas. For those who love an active day with a mix of wildlife and scenic beauty, the Kayak Tour with Snorkeling and Local Aperitif is a standout. If you prefer a calmer, more romantic outing, the Sunset Kayak Tour is ideal. For a deeper dive into Sardinia’s marine parks, the boat trip in a dinghy provides unforgettable underwater sights.
No matter your choice, each tour offers an authentic taste of Olbia’s waters and a chance to see the island from a fresh perspective. Be sure to book early, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and enjoy Sardinia’s stunning marine scenery to the fullest.