Caves of Porto Palermo: Kayak/SUP Tour with Castle Sea View

Imagine gliding silently over emerald waters, surrounded by towering cliffs and discovering secret caves and beaches. That’s exactly what this Kayak or Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP) tour offers in Porto Palermo, a hidden gem along Albania’s Albanian Riviera. It’s an experience that promises scenic views, marine adventure, and a touch of history all in one go.

We’ve seen several satisfied travelers praising its stunning scenery and friendly guides, making it a clear standout for outdoor enthusiasts. However, it’s not for everyone—those who aren’t comfortable in the water or prefer a more relaxed sunbathing day might find it a bit active. That said, this tour is especially well-suited for adventure lovers, curious explorers, and people eager for an authentic encounter with Albania’s beautiful coastline.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are its intimate nature—small groups mean personalized attention—and the opportunity to photograph incredible scenery and marine life. A minor consideration is that it requires a bit of physical activity, so it’s best for those who are comfortable paddling. Still, if you’re looking for a memorable, scenic, and active day out, this tour is worth considering.

Key Points

• Authentic coastal experience paddling along Albania’s scenic shoreline
• Discover hidden caves and secluded beaches that are inaccessible by land
• Learn about the area from a knowledgeable, friendly guide
• Snorkeling equipment provided for vibrant marine encounters
• Small group sizes enhance safety and personalized service
• Ideal for active travelers and those seeking unique photo opportunities

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with adventure, scenic beauty, and a touch of history, this tour offers a compelling package. Starting from Porto Palermo beach, just in front of the castle, it’s an easy meet-up—most guides begin around 8:45 AM with an intro lesson and safety briefing before setting out at 9:00 AM. The flexible 3 to 5-hour window means you can choose a time that fits your schedule, but most prefer the morning for calm waters and optimal lighting.

The itinerary is designed for an active yet relaxed experience. After a brief orientation, you set off on your paddle—either kayak or SUP—along the coast, soaking in the lush scenery and crystal-clear waters. Your guide, speaking English, will point out notable sights and hidden spots, making the entire trip both fun and educational.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Caves and Beaches

The first highlight is a visit to the caves—small but striking formations that reveal themselves as you paddle past. Light plays on their surfaces, creating a magical atmosphere. Marine life is often visible here, especially if you’re snorkeling. You’ll have about 30 minutes at the first secluded beach for swimming and snorkeling, which is a great way to cool off and enjoy the vibrant underwater world.

Quote from a recent review: “Excellent activity, the caves were magnificent and we were able to swim in turquoise water, it was really great.” This suggests that the experience delivers both visual and physical delights, especially if you enjoy swimming in pristine waters.

The tour then continues towards Ali Pasha’s Castle, visible from the sea, offering a striking backdrop for photos. The panoramic views from the water enhance the experience, allowing you to appreciate the history and landscape in one glance.

Further Exploration

Next, the group paddles towards the other side of Porto Palermo Bay, where towering cliffs and more hidden beaches await. The journey here takes about 15 minutes, leading you to another secluded spot where you can snorkel or simply relax on the sand. The water’s changing hues—from deep blue to light turquoise—are mesmerizing, making every photo worth capturing.

After approximately 20 minutes at this second beach, the group heads back to Porto Palermo’s starting point, arriving around noon. The return journey is a gentle cruise along the coast, during which you might spot marine life or enjoy the peaceful rhythm of paddling.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour fee covers the kayak or SUP rental, live guide, snorkeling gear, safety briefing, waterproof bags, and cases for phones—everything you need for a safe and comfortable outing. However, travelers should bring their own water, snacks, sunscreen, and swimwear. Pro tip: flip-flops or water shoes are not included, so consider bringing some if you prefer to walk on rocky beaches.

Group Size and Booking

The experience is designed for small groups, enhancing safety and allowing guides to tailor their commentary and assistance. It’s suitable for children (over 6), but those under 16 need to be accompanied by an adult. The activity is not recommended for pregnant women, non-swimmers, or individuals over 220 lbs (100 kg).

More Great Tours Nearby

Flexibility and Cancellation

Booking is flexible—reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This makes it easier to plan around your Albania itinerary without worry.

Why This Tour Matters for Travelers

What makes this experience special is the combination of nature, history, and physical activity. The stunning caves and beaches are untouched by mass tourism, offering a genuine connection to Albania’s coast. The guides’ local knowledge adds depth, turning a paddle into a mini-adventure filled with stories and insights.

From the reviews, it’s clear that travelers find the friendly guides and beautiful scenery to be the highlights. “The instructors are super friendly,” one reviewer noted, emphasizing the welcoming atmosphere. The opportunity to leave with beautiful photos also appeals to those wanting a visual souvenir of their trip.

Is It Worth the Price?

Considering that it includes equipment, guiding, snorkeling gear, and small-group attention, the price reflects good value for a half-day adventure. The cost is minor compared to the memories and photos you’ll take home, making it a worthwhile addition to any Albania travel plan—especially for active travelers or those eager to see a less-touristed side of the country.

This tour is perfect for adventure-minded travelers seeking a scenic and physically engaging activity. It’s well-suited for those who enjoy water sports, photography, or simply want to explore Albania’s coastline from a different perspective. Families with older children, keen on paddling or snorkeling, will find it a rewarding day out.

If you’re not comfortable in the water or prefer more relaxed activities, this tour might not be your best choice. Also, if you’re pregnant or have mobility issues, the paddling aspect could be challenging. But for curious explorers eager to see hidden caves and enjoy pristine waters, this provides a memorable, authentic experience.

This kayak/SUP tour of Porto Palermo offers a rare chance to see one of Albania’s most scenic coastlines from the water. The combination of hidden caves, secluded beaches, and historical views of Ali Pasha’s Castle makes it a bucket-list-worthy activity. The guides’ friendliness and the small group setting help create a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring you feel safe and well-informed throughout.

For anyone craving an active, scenic adventure, this tour delivers in spades. It’s a great way to combine physical activity with stunning scenery, and to step off the beaten path into a more authentic Albanian experience. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a curious beginner, the waters of Porto Palermo await with their promise of quiet beauty and memorable moments.

Is there an age limit for participating in this tour?
Children over 6 years old can join if accompanied by an adult, but kids under 16 must be with an adult.

Can non-swimmers participate?
While snorkeling is optional, non-swimmers should be comfortable in the water. The tour isn’t recommended for those over 220 lbs or over 70 years old.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. Water shoes are not included but can be helpful for rocky beaches.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, pregnant women are advised against participating.

How long is the tour?
The activity lasts between 3 and 5 hours, depending on availability and pace.

What equipment is provided?
The tour includes kayak or SUP rental, snorkeling gear, waterproof bags, and cases for phones.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Porto Palermo beach in front of the castle and returns to the same point.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is transfer from Saranda available?
Yes, transfer from Saranda can be arranged for an additional cost, making it easier if you’re staying further afield.

This experience offers a charming blend of adventure, natural beauty, and history—perfect for travelers seeking a genuine taste of Albania’s coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: