Tenerife: Private Standup Paddle and Snorkel Lesson with Photos Included — A Practical Guide
If you’re looking for a fun, active way to enjoy Tenerife’s stunning coastal scenery, a private standup paddleboard (SUP) and snorkel lesson might just be your perfect match. Hosted by Shaka Surf Tenerife, this two-hour experience promises personalized instruction, safe paddling, and unforgettable views along the volcanic coast of Los Cristianos. Whether you’re a total beginner or someone wanting a guided introduction to SUP and snorkeling, this tour aims to deliver a relaxed, authentic encounter with the sea.
What we especially appreciate about this experience is its focus on safety and customization. You’ll learn at your own pace, with a private instructor ensuring you’re comfortable on the board before heading out. Plus, the inclusion of professional photos immediately after the activity allows you to relive your adventure without extra cost. On the flip side, some might find the two-hour duration a bit short for a more in-depth water experience, especially if you’re keen to explore further or try more advanced techniques.
This tour suits travelers who value personalized attention, family groups, couples, or solo explorers eager to get their feet wet with minimal fuss. It’s particularly ideal for those wanting a supportive, safe environment to learn or improve SUP skills while enjoying the striking volcanic coastline. Just keep in mind, it’s not suited for very young children or individuals with certain medical conditions, so check the restrictions if you’re traveling with kids or have health concerns.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Private instruction offers tailored guidance ideal for all levels.
- Includes all equipment and photos, providing excellent value.
- Beautiful volcanic coastline offers a scenic backdrop for paddling and snorkeling.
- Accessible for families and couples, with solutions for different ages and skill levels.
- Safety is prioritized, with briefings and safety gear provided.
- Duration is 2 hours, making it a manageable activity that fits well into a day.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Canary Islands.
A Close Look at the Experience
Starting Point: Shaka Kayak y Sup Tenerife
Your adventure begins at the dedicated SUP store in the Cristianmar building in Playa de Los Cristianos. This location is convenient, right on the beach, and offers a welcoming environment to get equipped and prepared. The staff is experienced and friendly, and they’ll provide wetsuits, boards, paddles, life jackets, masks, snorkels, lockers, and even a place to store your belongings safely.
Safety Briefing and Preparation
The first 15 minutes are spent on a safety briefing, during which the instructor explains how to handle the board, paddle correctly, and use the snorkel gear. This brief session is essential, especially for beginners, as it builds confidence and ensures everyone understands how to stay safe while having fun. The safety gear, including life jackets, is comfortable, and the wetsuits are available if the water is cooler.
More Great Tours NearbyPaddling Along the Volcanic Coast
Once on the water, you’ll be sailing along the volcanic coastline of Los Cristianos—an area known for its rugged beauty and calm waters, perfect for beginners. The instructor guides you through the basics of paddling, balancing, and turning, with plenty of one-on-one coaching. We loved the way the instructor personalizes tips based on each participant’s experience, making even nervous first-timers feel more at ease.
Snorkel Practice Near the Coast
The second half of the experience involves snorkeling near the volcanic coastline. After mastering the SUP, you’ll practice snorkel skills with provided gear, exploring the underwater world close to shore. While the tour doesn’t specify particular marine life, the area is renowned for its marine biodiversity, and you might find yourself swimming among colorful fish or observing interesting volcanic formations beneath the surface.
Photos and Post-Activity Relaxation
Immediately after the lesson, you’ll receive a set of free souvenir photos capturing your water adventure. Many reviews praise this feature, noting how it’s a nice touch that allows you to keep memories without additional cost. The facilities also include showers, so you can rinse off and change comfortably after your aquatic adventure.
Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary
Stop 1: The Meeting Point
Located conveniently in Playa de Los Cristianos, the store’s central location means you won’t have to trek far to start your day. It’s a friendly hub that sets the tone for a relaxed, professional experience.
Stop 2: Safety Briefing
A vital 15-minute session that covers everything you need to know about paddleboarding and snorkeling safety. Expect clear instructions and an emphasis on individual attention, making sure everyone feels prepared before heading out.
Stop 3: Out on the Water
The core activity lasts for approximately two hours. You’ll be out on calm waters, sailing along the volcanic coast. The scenery here is striking—black volcanic rocks contrasting with blue water and lush greenery inland. The instructor will help you learn or refine your paddling technique, and the atmosphere is friendly and supportive.
Stop 4: Return and Photos
Back at the starting point, you’ll be handed your photos, and you can relax knowing you’ve gained new skills or enjoyed a lovely coastal view. If you wish, you can also utilize the showers to freshen up before continuing your day.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out
Personalized Attention
With private lessons, you won’t feel rushed or lost in a crowd. The instructor’s tailored guidance makes a significant difference, especially for beginners or those who want to improve their SUP skills.
All-Inclusive Equipment and Photos
The cost includes everything you need—boards, paddles, wetsuits, snorkel gear, and photos. This no-surprise approach enhances value and convenience, especially for travelers unfamiliar with water sports gear.
Scenic and Safe Environment
The flat waters of Los Cristianos Bay provide a safe and scenic setting, ideal for learning and relaxing. The volcanic backdrop adds a touch of drama and authenticity, making this more than just a paddle session.
Flexibility in Group Size
Being a private experience means you’ll have your instructor’s full attention. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a personal, intimate activity.
Considering the Value
Price-wise, this two-hour private lesson offers a comprehensive experience that combines instruction, equipment, photos, and safety. The inclusion of all gear and immediate photo delivery adds to the overall value, especially considering how memorable the scenery is. For those new to SUP or snorkeling, the guided approach ensures you’re learning correctly and safely, reducing the risk of frustration or mishaps.
Who Is It Best For?
This tour is ideal for beginners looking for a gentle introduction, families wanting a safe water activity, or couples seeking a relaxed, scenic outing. It’s also suitable for travelers preferring a personalized experience rather than a large-group session. However, it’s important to note the restrictions—those with certain medical conditions, mobility issues, or very young children may want to consider other options.
Final Thoughts
This Tenerife SUP and snorkel experience provides a well-rounded, safe, and scenic introduction to water sports in one of the Canary Islands’ most accessible and beautiful coastal spots. The private instruction ensures you get the attention needed to enjoy paddling confidently, while the snorkel component adds an extra dimension of underwater discovery.
The included photos and equipment, combined with the setting’s natural beauty, make this a valuable activity for those wanting a relaxed, memorable day on the water. It’s particularly suited for first-timers, families, or anyone seeking a safe, guided introduction with a personal touch.
If your goal is to combine learning, fun, and scenic views without a hefty price tag, this tour ticks all those boxes and offers a genuine taste of Tenerife’s volcanic coast.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children? This experience is designed for participants aged 2 and above, but specific age restrictions apply. Children under 7 or 8 might find it less suitable, especially if they aren’t comfortable in the water or have medical restrictions.
Do I need to be a good swimmer? While snorkeling and paddling are both relatively safe activities, a basic comfort in water is recommended. The instructor will provide safety gear and guidance, but awareness of your swimming ability helps.
What should I bring? You only need to bring a swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen. All equipment, including wetsuits, paddles, masks, and snorkels, are provided.
Can I cancel or reschedule? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later.
Is this activity suitable for non-English speakers? Yes, the instructor speaks Spanish, English, Italian, and French, making communication accessible for most travelers.
What if the weather is bad? Water activities are weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t suitable, the provider offers a full refund or rescheduling options; check their specific policies for details.
This SUP and snorkel tour offers a fantastic introduction to Tenerife’s coastal waters, combining fun, safety, and stunning scenery, perfect for creating memories without overcomplicating things. Whether you’re after a gentle paddle or a snorkeling introduction, it’s a practical choice that balances value with authentic experience.
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