Lisbon isn’t just about historic neighborhoods and pastel-colored facades—its surrounding waters offer some of the best snorkeling opportunities in Portugal. Whether you’re paddling into caves, exploring marine reserves, or soaking in rugged coastlines, there’s a water-based adventure suited for every type of traveler. We especially like the Kayak and Snorkeling Adventure in Lisbon for its combination of active exploration and guided insight, or the Berlenga Island Catamaran Tour, which offers a scenic, relaxed day in a protected archipelago. These experiences highlight the diversity of Lisbon’s marine life and stunning landscapes, making the city a surprisingly great base for underwater adventures.
If you’re short on time but still want a taste of the sea, the Arrábida Snorkeling Adventure with Transfer from Lisbon combines mountain views with marine exploration, perfect for a half-day escape. For those who prefer a slower pace with added cultural flavor, the Lisbon: Snorkeling and Wine Tasting in Arrábida offers a full-day experience that pairs underwater discovery with local wines in a historic setting. The list below covers a variety of options, from full-day excursions to shorter tours, ensuring there’s something for all interested in Lisbon’s rich aquatic environment.
1. Kayak and Snorkeling Adventure in Lisbon
Starting at number one, this full-day adventure takes you from Lisbon’s busy streets to the quiet beauty of Arrábida Natural Park. The tour is well-loved for its combination of kayaking, cave exploration, and snorkeling around Anicha Rock, a small volcanic island teeming with marine life. The tour includes all snorkel and kayak equipment, so you just need to bring your enthusiasm. What makes this tour stand out is the small group setting, which ensures personalized attention from your guide—something that many reviews highlight as a major plus.
The guides are praised for their knowledge and caring attitude. One reviewer called Antonio “knowledgeable and caring,” emphasizing how smoothly the day went, even for first-timers. The tour features several stops for photos and breaks on the beach, plus a chance to explore hidden caves along the coast. The included snorkeling around the rocky island means you’ll see colorful fish and marine creatures in a volcanic setting. The day concludes with a beachside lunch (own expense), leaving you energized for the return trip to Lisbon. This trip is ideal for active travelers eager to spend a full day immersed in nature.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting a mix of adventure and guided expertise, especially if you enjoy kayaking and snorkeling in a scenic, less crowded part of Portugal.
2. Lisbon: Arrábida Snorkeling Adventure
At number two, this half-day tour focuses on exploring the protected waters of Arrábida National Reserve Park. It’s a fantastic option for travelers who want quality snorkeling without a full day commitment. The tour provides snorkel gear and guides who are extremely knowledgeable about the marine environment, giving you insights into the bio-diversity of the area. The highlight is the chance to see squid, octopuses, and colorful fish in crystal-clear waters, along with marveling at the fossil cliffs of Arrábida.
Though it’s a shorter experience, reviews note that the personalized approach and the quality of the snorkeling make it worth the price. One reviewer appreciated the professionalism and the chance to see marine life in a calm, untouched habitat. The tour is suitable for all levels, including beginners, thanks to the safety-conscious guides. The focus on the marine ecosystem makes it a great choice for those interested in natural history and underwater photography.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers with limited time, looking for a highly personalized, nature-focused snorkeling experience in a stunning marine reserve.
3. Lisbon: Snorkelling in Sesimbra/Arrábida Natural Park
At number three, this shorter, family-friendly tour offers a relaxed introduction to the Prof. Luiz Saldanha Marine Park. With a focus on biodiversity, the tour covers over 1,350 species of marine life in calm waters—perfect for those not experienced with snorkeling. The guide emphasizes safety, comfort, and fun, making it well-suited for families or first-time snorkelers.
The highlight is getting up close with marine species like cuttlefish, octopus, and seabream, with many guests noting the excellent guidance and scenic underwater views. The tour lasts about three hours, which fits well into a day of sightseeing or beach hopping. The reviews emphasize how the guides ensure everyone has a memorable and safe experience, even those new to snorkeling.
Bottom Line: A great choice for families or beginners wanting a relaxed, educational experience in a biodiverse marine environment.
4. Arrábida Snorkeling Adventure with Transfer from Lisbon
Number four offers a half-day trip to the Arrábida National Reserve with the added convenience of a transfer from Lisbon. This tour combines snorkeling in the Atlantic’s clear waters with a scenic trek through the Arrábida Mountains, providing panoramic views of the coastline. The tour includes snorkel gear and even provides souvenir photos and videos, making it a memorable keepsake.
The reviews praise Filipe as an excellent guide, noting his attentiveness and local knowledge. Tourists love that it feels more personalized, and the marine life is abundant—octopuses, fish, crabs—which makes the snorkeling particularly rewarding. The mountain trek offers spectacular vistas, rounding out a well-balanced nature experience. This tour is best suited for outdoor lovers who appreciate both land and sea scenery.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a half-day adventure that combines coastal mountains and marine exploration with the convenience of pickup and drop-off.
5. Lisbon: Snorkeling and Wine Tasting in Arrábida
For those who want a full-day experience with a cultural twist, number five combines snorkeling with a wine tasting in a historic cellar. This tour offers the chance to snorkel in Arrábida’s clear waters and then relax with local wines in a traditional setting. The focus is on enjoying Portuguese cuisine, local flavors, and the natural beauty of the landscape.
While only two reviews are available, they mention that the activity was “great” and that the guides are knowledgeable. The weather can affect the snorkeling, but the wine tasting provides a lovely alternative if conditions are less favorable. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a mix of outdoor adventure and regional culture, especially if they’re interested in wine.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting to combine underwater exploration with a leisurely afternoon sampling Portuguese wines.
6. Berlenga Island Catamaran Tour + Snorkeling
Finally, at number six, this half-day catamaran trip takes you from Peniche to the stunning Berlenga Island. It’s a relaxed, scenic excursion with snorkeling gear included, allowing you to explore the protected archipelago’s underwater world. On landing, you can hike the trails or visit the historic São João Batista Fortress, adding a cultural element to your day.
The reviews mention the stunning scenery and the chance to see marine life like fish and invertebrates. The snorkel equipment—fins and masks—are provided, making it easy to jump into the water. It’s perfect for travelers who want a combination of boat ride, light hiking, and snorkeling, with the flexibility to explore on your own.
Bottom Line: An excellent option for those wanting a scenic, multi-activity day with easy access to Portugal’s marine sanctuary.
How to Choose Your Best Snorkeling Experience in Lisbon
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. If you’re after a full-day adventure that mixes kayaking and snorkeling in a less crowded setting, the Kayak and Snorkeling Adventure is hard to beat. For more relaxed, shorter outings focused purely on marine life, the Arrábida Snorkeling Adventure or the Sesimbra Marine Park tour fit well.
If you prefer combining outdoor activity with cultural or culinary experiences, the Snorkeling and Wine Tasting offers a unique blend. For scenic exploration and ease, the Berlenga Island Catamaran provides a beautiful boat ride plus snorkeling in a protected environment.
Booking early is recommended, especially during the high season (spring to early fall), to secure your preferred date and time. Check the availability of each experience and consider whether you want a guided tour, transportation included, or a more independent exploration.
Final Thoughts
Lisbon’s surrounding waters open up a surprisingly diverse set of snorkeling options. Whether you’re looking for a full-day kayaking adventure, a quick family-friendly snorkel, or a scenic boat trip to Berlenga Island, there’s something to match your style. For active travelers, the Kayak and Snorkeling Adventure offers the most immersive experience, while those interested in combining cultural activities with marine exploration might prefer the Wine Tasting and Snorkeling.
Remember, the key to a great experience is choosing a tour that matches your interests, fitness level, and schedule. With so many options, you’ll want to book early and get ready to see Portugal’s waters from a new perspective.
Happy snorkeling, and don’t forget your underwater camera!