Adelaide is a fantastic city for canoe and kayak adventures thanks to its calm waterways, abundant wildlife, and the proximity of nature-packed areas like the Port River and Coorong National Park. Whether you’re paddling through mangroves, exploring shipwrecks, or enjoying city views from the water, this South Australian city offers a variety of memorable aquatic experiences. We particularly love the Dolphin Sanctuary Kayak Tour, for its intimate encounter with playful dolphins and expert guides who make exploring this protected area both safe and educational. The ease of paddling and small-group setting make it perfect for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike.
In this guide, you’ll find a well-rounded list of 11 top-rated kayak and canoe tours. From half-hour city paddles to full-day explorations of the Coorong’s expansive saltwater lagoons, each offers a different perspective on Adelaide’s waterways. To help you decide which experience fits your interests and timeframe best, read on for detailed descriptions, real reviews, and practical tips.
1. Dolphin Sanctuary Kayak Tour Adelaide
At number one, the Dolphin Sanctuary Kayak Tour stands out for its personalized experience and close-up wildlife encounters. For around $54, you get three hours of paddling through Port Adelaide’s mangrove forests, with the chance to see dolphins passing by—an unforgettable sight. The tour includes all necessary kayaking gear, a waterproof bag, and guidance from naturalist guides who explain the ecosystem and animal behaviors.
What makes this tour top-ranked are the excellent reviews praising friendly, knowledgeable guides, and the safe, relaxed pace suitable for beginners. Past paddlers mention dolphin sightings “straight away” and kayaking around shipwrecks as highlights. This experience is best suited for those wanting a small-group, eco-focused adventure that balances fun with education. The price includes gear and instruction, making it a good value for wildlife lovers.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for families and solo travelers wanting to see dolphins in their natural habitat with expert help.
2. Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary and Ships Graveyard Kayak Tour
This tour offers a combination of dolphin watching and maritime history—an engaging mix. For about $53, you’ll spend roughly three hours exploring Mangrove-lined waterways that hide shipwrecks and native wildlife. The guide will teach you how to kayak safely, whether you’re a novice or more experienced. As you paddle, you’ll have chances to see dolphins up close, along with seabirds and other marine creatures.
Rated 5 stars by 260 reviewers, many mention the “great value” and “amazing mangrove scenery” that feels like stepping into another world. The highlight is the Shipwreck Maritime Heritage Trail, which adds a historical twist to your eco-adventure. It’s perfect for families, history buffs, or those wanting a varied water experience. The small group size (max 14) ensures personalized attention.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded trip combining wildlife, history, and tranquil waters—great for curious explorers.
3. Adelaide: Dolphin Sanctuary Eco Kayaking Tour
This eco-friendly tour focuses on immersing yourself gently in nature. For about $52, you paddle through peaceful mangrove creeks, spot dolphins, and learn about marine ecosystems from your guide. The tour’s emphasis on sustainability and quiet paddling makes it an appealing choice for those seeking a calm, environmentally conscious adventure.
Rated 4.6 based on 438 reviews, travelers rave about the serenity of the environment and the opportunity to view dolphins in their natural habitat. It’s suited for nature lovers interested in learning about the local ecosystem while enjoying a relaxed paddle. The small group size enhances the experience, making it ideal for a peaceful escape.
Bottom Line: Perfect for eco-minded travelers who want a tranquil, educational experience on the water.
4. Full Day Kayaking Tour in Coorong National Park
For those ready to spend more time on the water, this Full Day Kayaking Tour in Coorong National Park offers an in-depth exploration. Priced at $108, it lasts about six hours, including lunch and snacks, so you can focus entirely on paddling the 86-mile-long saltwater lagoons and sand dunes. The tour also includes a walk on the Young Husband Peninsula, allowing for a varied experience of land and water.
Rated perfect 5 stars by 119 reviewers, many praise the professional guides and the chance to see seals, pelicans, and other birds. The longer duration makes it ideal for active travelers or those wanting a comprehensive day immersed in nature and wildlife. It’s especially suited for those with a good level of fitness and patience.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you’re after a full day immersed in South Australia’s iconic coastal environment.
5. Dolphin Sanctuary and Ships Graveyard Kayak Tour
This tour combines two of Adelaide’s maritime treasures for about $51. During three hours, you’ll paddle along Port Adelaide River, watching for dolphins and exploring shipwrecks. The guide shares stories about the wrecks and local wildlife, creating a rich, layered experience.
Rated 4.7 by 138 reviewers, many mention how “informative and fun” the tour is, especially the close-up dolphin sightings. The focus on marine life and shipwreck exploration makes it perfect for history and wildlife enthusiasts. The price is competitive, and the route is manageable for most paddlers.
Bottom Line: An engaging mix of wildlife and maritime history, suitable for those who love stories as much as scenery.
6. Adelaide: Dolphin Sanctuary Mangroves Kayak Tour
This family-friendly tour lasts about 1.5 hours and costs just $36. You’ll paddle through sheltered mangrove creeks searching for Port River Dolphins, with chances to spot fur seals and sea lions. The experience emphasizes wildlife watching and ecological storytelling by your guide, making it educational and fun for all ages.
Rated 4.5 from 49 reviews, families enjoy that it’s easy and safe, with lots of wildlife to see. The smaller duration and budget make it a great introduction to paddling for beginners or families with young children.
Bottom Line: An accessible, fun, and eco-conscious trip suited for families and casual paddlers.
7. Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary Mangroves Kayaking Tour
This 90-minute adventure for about $37 offers an up-close look at native wildlife and wrecked ships. With a small group of 12 or fewer, you’ll follow your guide through mangroves, listening to stories of the area’s marine and cultural history. The focus on interaction makes it ideal for those wanting a short but meaningful paddling experience.
Rated 4.5 by 48 reviews, paddlers comment on the beautiful scenery and easy paddling, even if no dolphins are seen during their trip. It’s a quick, budget-friendly option for those with limited time but wanting to connect with nature.
Bottom Line: Great for newcomers or those wanting a shorter, enriching experience without sacrificing wildlife viewing.
8. Adelaide City Kayak Tour
This urban kayak experience combines city sights with water fun. For just $53, spend about 1.5 hours paddling along the River Torrens, passing landmarks like the Adelaide Oval and local parklands. It offers a unique perspective on Adelaide, blending sightseeing with a gentle workout.
Rated 5 stars from 7 reviews, travelers love its personalized approach and the chance to see the city from the water. Ideal for those who want a short, urban adventure that combines culture, scenery, and light exercise.
Bottom Line: A perfect quick fix for urban explorers wanting a different view of Adelaide’s sights.
9. Adelaide: Dolphin Sanctuary 1 or 2-Person Kayak Rental
If you’re confident paddling independently, this rental option for around $26 per person allows you to explore Dolphin Sanctuary at your own pace. Available in 1- or 2-person kayaks, it’s flexible and budget-friendly, giving you control over your adventure.
Rated 4.4/5 from 37 reviews, paddlers appreciate the easy instructions and freedom to explore. Perfect for experienced paddlers or those wanting a self-guided experience, especially if you’ve already enjoyed a guided tour first.
Bottom Line: Best for confident paddlers who prefer independence and flexibility.
10. Adelaide: City Kayaking Experience
For those wanting to combine city sightseeing with water fun, this 1.5-hour tour costs about $55. You’ll paddle along the River Torrens, learning about the city’s history and spotting local waterfowl. The small-group size ensures individualized attention.
Rated 4.9 from 7 reviews, travelers highlight how beautiful the city views are from the water and the informative guide. This experience suits urban explorers who want a short, scenic paddle.
Bottom Line: Ideal for visitors eager to see Adelaide’s skyline from the river with minimal time commitment.
11. Adelaide: City to Sea, Bike and Kayak Safari
This full-day combo tour offers cycling and kayaking for about $290. Starting in the city, you’ll cycle through Glenelg’s beaches and boutiques before paddling in the Dolphin Sanctuary. The tour showcases Adelaide’s diverse landscapes and cultural spots.
Rated without reviews yet, it’s perfect for adventure enthusiasts wanting a comprehensive day outdoors, blending two active pursuits. It’s best suited for fit travelers comfortable with long hours and multiple activities.
Bottom Line: A complete outdoor day for active travelers wanting variety and immersion in Adelaide’s coastal and river environments.
$290 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Canoe & Kayak Experience in Adelaide
When selecting the right tour, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. If you want a short urban paddle with city views, the Adelaide City Kayak Tour is perfect. For wildlife lovers, the Dolphin Sanctuary Kayak Tour offers intimate dolphin sightings and expert guides. For full immersion, the Full Day Coorong provides a full day exploring salt lagoons and dunes with plenty of wildlife.
Budget travelers might prefer the self-guided dolphin sanctuary kayak rental, while families and beginners will enjoy the shorter, eco-focused Mangroves Kayaking. Booking early is wise during peak seasons (spring to autumn), especially for popular tours.
Final Thoughts
Adelaide offers a surprising range of canoe and kayak experiences that suit all kinds of water enthusiasts. Whether you’re after a wildlife adventure, a cultural city paddle, or a full-day eco-exploration, there’s something here to match your style. For wildlife lovers, the Dolphin Sanctuary tours stand out for their dolphin sightings and eco-focus, while the Coorong trip offers a deeper dive into South Australia’s coastal wilderness.
For urban explorers, the City Kayak Tour provides a quick, scenic escape with excellent reviews. Budget-conscious travelers can opt for self-guided rentals or shorter eco-tours, while serious paddlers might prefer the full-day adventures in Coorong or combined bike-and-kayak safaris.
No matter your choice, early booking ensures you secure a spot on these popular experiences. Dive into Adelaide’s waterways and see this vibrant city from a fresh perspective—you’ll be glad you did.