The 8 Best Kayak Trips Ashore Worldwide

1.Eagle Island Sea Kayaking

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 359 reviews · 3 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $115Our pick

You’ll ride from Ketchikan to Clover Pass, learn tandem-kayak basics, and paddle about 90 minutes toward Eagle Island with guides such as Eli, Sarah, Katy, or Gavin. Calm water suits beginners, while seals, eagles, starfish, sea lions, salmon, and occasional whales add a wild Alaska touch. Gear, instruction, and port transport are included.

“We had Eli as our tour guide, he was super nice and very knowledgeable with the History of the area.”

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2.Mangrove Lagoon Kayak and Snorkel Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 195 reviews · from $119

Spend about 2.5 hours kayaking through St. Thomas’ protected Mangrove Lagoon, snorkeling near mangrove roots, and possibly hiking Cas Cay. Guides such as Pat, Kyrell, Kas, and Slim explain local plants, wildlife, and island history. Round-trip port or hotel pickup, gear, lockers, water, and a snack are included.

“We had a fantastic morning kayaking out to the Mangrove Lagoon with Pat, our guide. He was a great guide, very friendly and enthusiastic, always looking for things to show us. Our 2 teens enjoyed it immensely as well. We also had a nice drivRead more”

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3.Shore Excursion Guided Sea Kayaking through Akaroa Marine Reserve

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 160 reviews · from $83

Paddle a tandem sea kayak through Akaroa’s sheltered volcanic harbor with guides such as Jake, Joey, John, James, Allie, and Seamus. Expect about three hours on the water, basic instruction, spray skirts, jackets, and stories about local geology and wildlife. Sightings are possible, not promised, and some departures remain within the harbor rather than reaching the marine reserve.

“This was a great tour. Allie was very kind and worked with us even when the ship’s tenders were late. John was our tour guide and was very patient and informative. Good for beginners and experienced kayakers. Had a wonderful time!!”

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4.Mendenhall Glacier Canoe, Paddle and Hike

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 75 reviews · 5 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $402

You’ll paddle 5 to 6 miles across Mendenhall Lake in a canoe, then hike about 2 miles over rocky ground toward the glacier’s edge. Above and Beyond Alaska supplies boots, rain gear, paddling equipment, snacks, transport, and guides. The small-group trip takes about 5.5 hours and requires good fitness and swimming ability.

“Really great experience. Canoeing was fun a little strenuous going toward the glacier against the wind. Got up very close to the glacier. Good narration by the guide of the flora and fauna around the glacier. Organized, had all of our equipment out and ready to go when we arrived at the shop. Just really nice people overall.”

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5.Shore Excursion: La Bufadora Blowhole, Kayak Adventure & Markets

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 28 reviews · 3 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $139

From Ensenada’s cruise port, drive 45 minutes to the coast, suit up, and paddle for about 90 minutes toward La Bufadora. Your guide stays with you, and kayaks, safety gear, paddles, and a dry bag are included. Families with younger children use the calmer estuary route. Add tacos, shopping, or other activities if time allows.

“Disorganized. Found them easy enough but drove to La Bufadora in their rented taxis and they made us wait for two hours while another group went. Told us to go shop. The time we wasted cost us the ability to do anything else back in Ensenada.”

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6.Cedar canoe tour in Klaipeda – ideal for Cruise Ship travelers.

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 21 reviews · 2 to 3 hours (approx.) · from $82Best value

You’ll paddle a handmade cedar strip canoe through Klaipeda with a local English-speaking guide, learning about the city’s fortifications and maritime past. Pickup is available beside your cruise ship, gear and minivan transport are included, and the small group has a maximum of eight people. Minimum age is 16.

“Excellent excursion! We were picked up at the port as promised. Given safety equipment and a lesson in canoeing. Enjoyed every minute on the handmade canoe and our guide. Perfect way to learn about Klaipeda, its history and Lithuanian life. Most highly recommend.”

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7.Paddle with Whales Kayak Adventure

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 20 reviews · 6 hours (approx.) · from $494

From Juneau’s downtown C sign, you’ll ride to Auke Bay, board a small boat, and paddle double kayaks near Channel Islands State Marine Park. A professional guide supplies rain gear, snacks, water, and instruction. Expect about six hours, moderate exertion, and no guaranteed whale sightings.

“Amazing employees and excursions. I’ve never kayaked before but was given excellent instructions. My kayak mate and I were given the ultimate experience of having a humpback whale surface right in front of our kayak. A once in a life time experience!!!!”

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8.Half-day cruise. St.Antonio Shore Excursion: Paddle, Swim and Beach Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 2 reviews · from $500

Join skipper Rafa and the Goa Catamaran crew in Sant Antoni for a four-hour private cruise along Ibiza’s coast. Use the onboard snorkeling gear and paddle surfboard, swim from the catamaran, and visit Cala Bassa if conditions and timing allow. The evening option adds sunset views, with Es Vedrà among the possible coastal highlights.

“¡Dia Fabuloso! Rafa y el capitán fueron geniales. Barco muy cómodo con mucho espacio y todas las comodidades que necesitábamos.”

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