Sea Glass Island and Clear Kayak Adventure

This review takes a close look at the Sea Glass Island and Clear Kayak Adventure, a highly-rated tour offering a chance to paddle in crystal-clear waters toward a secluded spot filled with colorful sea glass treasures. While we haven’t personally taken this journey, the consistent glowing reviews and detailed descriptions from travelers paint a vivid picture of what to expect. If you’re looking to combine adventure, nature, and a touch of treasure hunting, this tour might be perfect for you.

Two standout features we love are the see-through kayaks, which provide an unmatched view of the lively marine life beneath, and the tranquil, off-the-beaten-path setting of Sea Glass Island, a true hidden gem in Aruba. The only consideration? The activity can be a bit physical, especially on windy days, so good footwear and some paddling stamina are helpful. This experience suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, are comfortable in the water, or simply want a unique way to explore Aruba’s coastline and collect some sea glass treasures.

Key Points

• Visual delight: Transparent kayaks offer stunning views of marine life below.
• Secluded destination: Sea Glass Island is a quiet, reward-filled spot for explorers and collectors.
• Guide expertise: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with friendliness and safety.
• Value for money: A two-and-a-half-hour adventure that combines fun, scenery, and treasure hunting.
• Weather considerations: Choppy waters can make paddling tougher, but guides adapt, even providing motor boat assistance if needed.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for varied ages and skill levels, especially with flexible support.

Setting the Scene: What the Tour Is All About

The Sea Glass Island and Clear Kayak Adventure promises an afternoon of exploration and light physical activity in Aruba’s warm waters. Starting at the Aruba Reef Apartments in Savaneta, the tour lasts about 2 hours and 30 minutes, which is just enough time to enjoy the scenery, hunt for sea glass, and marvel at the vibrant marine underwater world.

The core of this experience is the see-through kayak—a marvel of modern design that lets you peer directly down into the water. It’s a stable, easy-to-handle craft suitable for most skill levels, with guides present to help beginners and ensure safety. Paddling along Aruba’s coast offers a different perspective from the usual beach lounger; here, you’re immersed in Aruba’s marine environment, seeing tropical fish, starfish, and coral formations through the transparent hulls.

The tour navigates toward Sea Glass Island, a small, uninhabited spot known for its abundance of colorful sea glass scattered along its shoreline. Guides often mention how the island isn’t just a pretty spot but a kind of treasure trove for collectors. Seeing the shoreline covered in vibrant, smooth glass pieces is a highlight for many, especially those with a penchant for collecting or simply appreciating natural artistry.

The Journey to Sea Glass Island

The trip begins with the guide briefing and gear fitting, including life jackets and dry bags—crucial for keeping your belongings safe during the paddle. Depending on conditions, guides might use a motorboat to ferry the group if the water gets choppy or paddling proves strenuous. Several reviews mention that even novice kayakers felt comfortable thanks to the patient guidance and support.

The paddle itself is described as short and scenic, taking you past Aruba’s coast and into calmer waters. For some, the journey may present a slight workout, especially if the wind picks up, which is quite common in the afternoon. As one reviewer shares, “The water was a bit choppy so Max drove us over on the boat so we had more time on the island, which was awesome!”

Travelers often mention the warm afternoon sun, which enhances the experience but also underscores the importance of reef-safe sunscreen, hats, and water shoes. The guides regularly provide fresh water, helping everyone stay hydrated while paddling or exploring.

Discovering Sea Glass Island

Reaching the island, you’ll find a small, unassuming sandbar but one packed with sea glass treasures in hues of green, blue, amber, red, and even rare pieces in shades of blue and violet. Many reviews highlight that you can spend quite a bit of time here hunting and collecting, especially if you’re a sea glass enthusiast.

As one guest notes, “There was more sea glass than I could imagine, and our guides went the extra mile to make it a great experience.” Guides often assist with raking and digging to uncover hidden pieces, ensuring everyone gets a fair shot at collecting.

The island itself might not be large, but its charm lies in the abundance of colorful glass and the peaceful atmosphere. Some visitors mention trash along the coast, which is unfortunate but not unusual in many natural spots. The guides do their best to keep the environment clean and emphasize environmental responsibility.

Exploring and Enjoying the Surroundings

Besides the treasure hunt, there’s plenty of time to swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the island. The calm waters surrounding the island are perfect for snorkeling, and the marine life visible beneath the clear hulls of the kayaks keeps the experience lively.

The timing of the tour is flexible; many opt for the late afternoon, especially the 4:30 pm departure, to enjoy the sunset views. One reviewer mentions, “We ended seeing the beautiful sunset from the kayaks,” which adds a magical touch to the adventure.

While some travelers find the paddle manageable, others note that it can be strenuous on windy days or for those less athletic. The availability of motorboats as support reassures those worried about physical exertion, and guides are attentive to individual needs.

Guides and Group Dynamics

The tour is limited to about 14 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized. Multiple reviews praise the knowledgeable, friendly guides who are attentive, humorous, and eager to share stories about the island and marine environment. Guests consistently mention the guides’ patience and helpfulness, making the trip enjoyable for families, couples, and solo travelers.

One guest shared, “Alex and Richard were great tour guides and very funny, which made the trip enjoyable.” This camaraderie and professional attitude seem to be a hallmark of the experience, boosting confidence for beginners and adding a layer of fun for seasoned paddlers.

Value and Pricing: Is It Worth It?

At $95 per group, the tour offers a good value considering the equipment, guiding, time on the water, and access to Sea Glass Island. Travelers frequently mention that the experience is well-organized, with all necessary gear provided, including dry bags, life jackets, and fresh water. The tour’s size keeps it intimate, and the personalized attention adds to the overall value.

Some reviews compare it to other activities, noting that it’s a unique experience rather than just a typical boat trip or snorkeling cruise. For those interested in sea glass collecting or wanting a more active, scenic adventure, this tour provides a memorable blend of exploration and relaxation.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Wear water shoes: The shoreline can be slippery or have debris; sturdy shoes make exploring easier.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen and bring a hat for sun protection.
• Bring a waterproof camera to capture underwater views and shoreline treasures.
• Consider the weather forecast; choppy waters are possible, but guides are prepared to adapt.
• If you’re not comfortable paddling long distances or in rough water, ask about the support options like the motorboat.

What Some Travelers Loved (and a Few Caveats)

Most reviews highlight friendly guides and stunning scenery as the tour’s best aspects. Many guests appreciated the opportunity to find an impressive amount of sea glass, with some describing it as a collectioner’s dream. The sunset rides and opportunity for family fun make it a well-rounded experience.

However, a handful of reviews mention trash along the coast, which is not ideal but also not uncommon in natural environments. Others point out that the paddle can be strenuous for some, especially on windy days, but the availability of support helps mitigate this concern.

A few critics feel the activity might be overpriced compared to other excursions, especially if you’re not into collecting or if the water conditions aren’t ideal. It’s important to note that the tour’s value lies in the personalized guidance, safety, and scenic experience rather than just the destination.

The Sea Glass Island and Clear Kayak Adventure offers a unique, engaging way to experience Aruba’s coastline. It combines adventure, natural beauty, and treasure hunting in a way that appeals to many types of travelers—from families to solo explorers. The guidance from seasoned, friendly guides makes it accessible and fun, even for beginners.

This tour really shines in its visual appeal, with transparent kayaks revealing lively marine life beneath, and the reward of discovering colorful sea glass along the shoreline. It’s a moderate-length activity that balances physical activity with relaxation, making it suitable for most fitness levels, especially with the option of support boats.

If you’re after an authentic, scenic experience that offers both adventure and a touch of treasure hunting, this tour provides good value, wonderful memories, and a fresh perspective on Aruba’s coast. Just be prepared for some sun, a bit of paddling, and the chance to walk away with a handful of beautiful glass pieces.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including paddling, exploration, and time on Sea Glass Island.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and can be enjoyed by most ages, especially with assistance if needed.

What should I wear?
Quick-dry clothing, swimwear underneath, water shoes, and sun protection such as a hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen.

Do I need to be an experienced kayaker?
No. Many guests are novices and find the guides very helpful. Support boats are available if needed.

What’s included in the price?
Clear kayak and paddle, life jacket, fresh water, experienced guide, and dry bag for personal items.

Can I go if the water is choppy?
Yes, guides can use a motorboat to ferry the group if conditions are rough, making it easier for everyone.

Are there options for support if I can’t paddle?
Yes, a motorboat is available to assist or ferry participants as needed.

What is the best time to go?
Late afternoon, especially around 4:30 pm, offers the chance to see a sunset from the water.

How physically demanding is the paddling?
It can be moderate, especially if windy. The trip is short, but some effort may be required.

What is the environmental impact?
Guides emphasize environmental responsibility, and trash is collected when possible. Visitors are encouraged to respect the fragile shoreline.

This tour combines the thrill of paddling with the joy of discovering a beach full of colorful sea glass. For those craving a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and a bit of treasure hunting, this Aruba experience is hard to beat.