Polignano a Mare: Kayak Sea Cave Trip

If you’re visiting Italy’s stunning Apulia region, a kayak trip along the Polignano a Mare coastline is a must-do for anyone craving a blend of adventure, natural beauty, and authentic coastal charm. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews consistently highlight its spectacular scenery, knowledgeable guides, and the thrill of exploring hidden caves. Think crystal-clear waters, caves once used by pirates, and quiet coves perfect for swimming.

What makes this experience special are three standout features: the expert guidance from multilingual instructors, the chance to paddle into caves like Grotta Ardito and Grotta Azzurra, and the peaceful, almost secretive atmosphere inside these caves. It’s perfect for those who love water-based activities and want a more intimate encounter with Italy’s coast. One potential concern? If weather isn’t cooperating, the tour might be canceled or altered, so flexibility is key.

This tour caters to a broad range of travelers—from beginners eager to try kayaking with tutorial support, to seasoned water lovers wanting a peaceful, scenic paddle. If you’re after a memorable, active way to see Polignano’s stunning coast, this trip is highly recommended.

Good To Know

• Accessible for all levels thanks to a detailed beginner tutorial
• Includes essential gear: waterproof bags, phone holders, life jackets
• Multiple cave visits offer unique photo opportunities and swimming spots
• Small group size limits to five participants, ensuring personalized attention
• Duration of around 1 to 1.5 hours makes it a flexible addition to your day
• Expert guides provide insightful commentary and safety instructions

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the coastline on a kayak: what to expect

Imagine paddling along the coast, with the crystal waters gently lapping against your kayak. This experience begins at the ‘Sup Polignano – Escursioni SUPuglia’ shop, where you’ll meet your instructor, who will give you a safety briefing and a quick tutorial—perfect for first-timers or those needing a refresher. The multilingual guides, who speak everything from Italian and Spanish to Polish and Russian, are known for their friendly, clear instructions, making sure everyone feels confident.

Once on the water, your journey takes you past iconic sights like Lama Monachile Beach, with its postcard-perfect cliffs and turquoise waters. The tour’s highlight is paddling into the caves—Grotta Palazzese, famous for its elegant restaurant inside, and Grotta Ardito, which offers a quiet, almost mystical atmosphere. One reviewer shared that they arrived early in June at 9:30 AM, enjoying the coolness of the water and the rare quiet—perfect for photography and savoring the views without crowds.

The caves are not just photo ops; you’ll have the chance to stop for a swim in calm, protected spots, which many find incredibly refreshing. Guides often take extra time to allow for swimming and photos, especially if the group is small—just like the reviewer who said, “Matteo, the guide, even gave us extra time to swim, which was a real treat.”

Paddling between these hidden coves also gives you a sense of adventure—imagine pirates once seeking refuge here, now just you and your small group enjoying the quiet beauty. The tour concludes back at the meeting point, after about 1 to 1.5 hours of fun, exploration, and relaxation.

A detailed look at the itinerary

Starting point: The tour kicks off at ‘Sup Polignano – Escursioni SUPuglia,’ where you’ll meet your instructor, who will provide all necessary gear and safety instructions. Expect a quick tutorial that demystifies paddling, even for absolute beginners.

First stop – Lama Monachile: One of Italy’s most photographed beaches, this stunning cove is the perfect place to pause for a swim. Its towering cliffs and clear waters make it a favorite among explorers. Reviewers note the water here is just right for swimming, and arriving early means fewer people and a more serene experience.

Next stops – Cave exploration: The guides will lead you into the famous Grotta Palazzese, renowned for its elegant restaurant carved into the rocks, and Grotta Ardito, which many praise for its peaceful and almost mystical ambiance. Paddling into these caves, you’ll enjoy both the visual spectacle and the quiet tranquility, with some reviewers saying they were the only ones inside—making it feel like discovering a secret world.

Additional caves: The trip also includes passing through Grotta Azzurra, known for its glowing blue waters, and other hidden coves, where you’ll have opportunities to capture incredible photos and take a second swim.

Return: After exploring, the group paddles back to the starting point, completing the roughly 2-kilometer route. The entire experience, with breaks and photo stops, lasts around 1 to 1.5 hours, making it a manageable yet memorable activity.

What’s included and what to bring

The tour provides all essential gear: a kayak or paddleboard, life jacket, and waterproof storage for your belongings and phone, so you can focus on the fun. Guides are multilingual, offering instructions in languages like English, Spanish, French, and more, ensuring clear communication throughout.

Note that hotel pickup or food and beverages are not included, so plan accordingly. It’s a good idea to bring sunscreen, a rash guard if you tend to burn, and a swimsuit—many reviewers suggested these for comfort and sun protection. Waterproof bags mean you can take photos without worry about water damage, and the small group size—limited to five participants—means a personalized, relaxed experience.

Is this tour right for you?

If you’re looking for a fun, scenic, and accessible adventure in Polignano a Mare, this kayak trip checks all the boxes. It’s perfect for beginners because of the thorough tutorial and safety gear, but experienced paddlers will appreciate the peaceful paddle and less crowded caves. The small group setting ensures a personal touch, and the focus on safety and comfort makes it suitable for families with children—non-paddling children can even join for free if accompanied by an adult.

However, weather conditions do influence whether the tour runs, so check the forecast and be flexible with your plans. The entire experience is a fantastic way to see the coastline from a different perspective, away from crowded beaches and tour buses, in a serene environment.

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Final thoughts on this kayak sea cave trip

This tour offers a rare glimpse into the natural beauty and history of Polignano a Mare’s coastline, with the added thrill of paddling into caves once used by pirates. The combination of stunning scenery, expert guidance, and the chance to swim in calm waters makes it a standout activity.

Most travelers rave about the knowledgeable guides, especially their ability to point out important sights and ensure everyone feels confident on the water. The quiet, almost secretive caves, coupled with crystal-clear waters, create a memorable, Instagram-worthy experience that feels both exclusive and genuine.

While the activity lasts just over an hour, the memories—photos, stories, and a sense of adventure—often linger much longer. Whether you’re a water sports enthusiast or a curious first-timer, you’ll find this tour offers incredible value for a small price.

Who should consider this tour?

This kayak trip suits adventurers of all levels who love nature and want a more intimate experience of Italy’s coastal beauty. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided tours with a personal touch, want to avoid large crowds, and are comfortable in the water. Families with children, especially non-paddlers, will enjoy the flexibility of the tour, and photographers will love the opportunity to capture rare, quiet moments inside the caves.

For travelers seeking a refreshing break from sightseeing, or simply wanting to enjoy a peaceful paddle in breathtaking surroundings, this tour strikes an excellent balance of adventure and relaxation.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour includes a full beginner tutorial and safety gear, making it accessible for those new to kayaking or paddleboarding.

How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on group size and water conditions.

Are there age restrictions?
Children can participate for free if accompanied by an adult, but specific age limits aren’t mentioned. Non-paddling children are welcome as long as they’re with an adult on their own SUP board.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a swimsuit, and possibly a rash guard. Waterproof bags are provided for your belongings and phone.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour might be subject to water and weather conditions, so check the forecast. If canceled, you can usually cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and beverages are not included, so plan to bring water or snacks if desired.

Can I book last minute?
Yes, reservations are recommended but can often be made close to the date, depending on availability.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, Italian, Polish, Russian, and more.

Is transportation provided?
No, the tour starts at the shop in Polignano a Mare, and there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off included.

How far do we paddle?
The route is approximately 2 kilometers, suitable for most fitness levels.

In short, this guided kayak tour in Polignano a Mare offers a fantastic way to explore Italy’s coast from a fresh perspective. With its friendly guides, stunning caves, and opportunities for swimming and photography, it’s bound to be a highlight of any visit to this beautiful region. Perfect for those seeking adventure, tranquility, or both, it promises a memorable experience that combines natural beauty with a touch of history and fun.

You can check if your dates are available here: