Sorrento is a fantastic place for canoe and kayak adventures. Its rugged coastline, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic cliffs make paddling here a memorable way to see the region. Unlike crowded boat tours, these options let you experience Sorrento’s natural beauty up close and at your own pace. We’re particularly fond of tours that combine guided expertise with access to secret spots, like the Amalfi Coast Kayak Tours from Marina del Cantone, which offers a hassle-free, scenic half-day exploring marine reserves and caves. Whether you’re paddling in a transparent kayak, exploring hidden beaches, or renting your own gear, these experiences give you a different perspective on the area.
For those who want a blend of guided adventure and freedom, options like the Sorrento: kayak small group tour to Bagni Regina Giovanna stand out. If you prefer the flexibility of exploring at your own pace, kayak rentals from Marina Grande are ideal, letting you chase your own hidden beaches and Roman ruins whenever the mood strikes.
Quick Overview
This list covers a variety of kayak experiences in Sorrento: guided tours that venture to famous spots like Queen Giovanna’s Baths and Ieranto Bay, small group excursions with photo opportunities, combined kayaking and paddleboarding adventures, and flexible rentals for independent exploration. Each offers something unique—whether you’re after guided storytelling, scenic solitude, or a budget-friendly way to explore the coast. Now, let’s dive into the details of each.
1. Amalfi Coast Kayak Tours from Marina del Cantone
At number 1, this half-day kayak tour from Marina del Cantone combines stunning scenery with the comfort of a guided experience. Paddle through the Natural Marine Reserve of Punta Campanella, a protected area with spectacular cliffs and abundant marine life. The highlight is paddling in transparent kayaks, which offer a unique view of the waters below, letting you see fish and rocks without getting wet. The tour includes a visit to Ieranto Bay, one of Italy’s top three most picturesque bays, accessible only by kayak or hiking from Nerano. This secluded spot features caves to explore and a beach perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
What makes this tour stand out is the expert guidance and safety emphasis. Guides are on hand at all times, ensuring you feel secure whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler. The reviews highlight the personalized experience and beautiful surroundings, with many guests mentioning how the transparent kayaks add a “magical” element. The included hotel pickup makes it a very easy, no-stress option.
Bottom Line: If you want a guided, immersive experience with opportunities for snorkeling and caves, this tour offers excellent value, combining comfort with scenery.
2. Sorrento: kayak small group tour to Bagni Regina Giovanna
Next on our list, the small group kayak tour to Bagni Regina Giovanna, combines the intimacy of a limited-group outing with a visit to Sorrento’s most iconic swimming spot. Starting from Via Marina Grande, 110, the tour takes you along the coast to this ancient Roman bath complex, now a natural sea pool surrounded by ruins. The tour includes a safety briefing, and with all gear provided, first-timers and seasoned paddlers alike can enjoy the trip.
What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to capture stunning photos of the coastline, thanks to guide-taken pictures, and to swim in the turquoise waters away from crowds. Guests rave about the friendly guides Giuseppe and Valentina, who make the experience fun and relaxed. The tour lasts about 2 hours, perfect for those who want a quick yet memorable adventure.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking an intimate, well-organized paddle with fantastic photo ops and a swim in a historic setting.
3. Sorrento: Guided Kayak Tour with Paddleboarding
At number 3, this guided kayak and paddleboarding tour offers a well-rounded experience. Starting from Via Marina Grande, 90, you’ll explore the Marina Grande Bay and visit the Baths of Queen Giovanna, a favorite local landmark. The guided tour includes detailed commentary on the area’s history and landmarks, plus a dedicated hour for paddleboarding, where you can try this fun water sport at your own pace.
What makes this tour unique is the quick access to key sights—paddling to Queen Giovanna’s Baths takes about 25 minutes—plus the flexibility of paddleboarding, which allows for a more independent experience. The guides are described as funny and interesting, adding personality to the trip. Reviewers mention the serenity of the private beach and the chance to see Roman ruins, which makes it more than just paddling.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want a guided, historical tour combined with some independent paddleboarding in a relaxed setting.
4. Kayak Rental from Marina Grande di Sorrento
For those who prefer to explore independently, the kayak rental from Marina Grande is a practical choice. It costs only about $17.29 per hour and gives you the freedom to paddle whenever and wherever you want. The location is ideal—closest to Bagni Regina Giovanna—and the team offers local tips to help you find the best beaches and caves, such as La Tonnarella and Marina di Puolo.
Guests love the simple rental process and the chance to paddle at their own pace, exploring the coastline’s caves, beaches, and Roman ruins. It’s perfect for travelers with a sense of adventure who don’t want a scheduled tour but still want expert advice and a strategic starting point.
Bottom Line: Best for independent explorers seeking flexibility and a budget-friendly way to see the coast on their own terms.
5. Sorrento: Rent Kayak & Sup – Bagni della Regina Giovanna
Number 5 offers a self-guided rental experience focused on paddleboarding and kayaking around the Bagni della Regina Giovanna. For about an hour, you can enjoy paddling in clear waters and visit the famous Roman ruins and natural sea pool. The equipment is described as easy to use, making it suitable for all skill levels—perfect for families or first-timers.
The reviews highlight the friendly staff and quality gear, making the experience seamless. The flexibility to paddle at your own pace and explore hidden beaches like Nube d’Argento or La Tonnarella makes this a popular choice for independent adventurers. The company also provides all necessary gear, including dry bags and phone cases.
Bottom Line: Excellent for solo explorers or couples wanting to paddle freely with all gear included, and the chance to explore at leisure.
6. Kayak Rental in Sorrento from Marina Grande
Finally, this Kayak Rental in Sorrento from Marina Grande provides a straightforward, affordable option to paddle along the coast. With a modest price and quick rental process, you’ll be ready to explore caves, beaches, and the Roman ruins of Bagni Regina Giovanna. The reviews note the easy process and the opportunity to reach scenic spots like Nube d’Argento and La Tonnarella, making it perfect for independent travelers.
It’s a simple but effective way to see the coast from a different angle, especially if you already know where you want to go. The option to leave your bags safely and paddle at your own pace makes this a flexible, budget-friendly choice.
Bottom Line: Ideal for independent travelers looking for a straightforward, budget-conscious way to explore Sorrento’s coast.
How to Choose Your Canoe & Kayak Adventure in Sorrento
When selecting the best option, consider your budget, time constraints, and what kind of experience you’re after. Guided tours like the Amalfi Coast Kayak Tours from Marina del Cantone or the small group tour to Bagni Regina Giovanna are perfect if you want expert insights and a structured trip. For complete freedom, the kayak rentals and self-guided paddling options give you flexibility and a more intimate connection with the coast.
Think about your fitness level—some tours involve paddling in choppy waters or climbing into a kayak—so read the descriptions carefully. Booking early is wise, especially in summer when these tours are popular.
In summary, Sorrento offers a wonderful range of canoe and kayak experiences—from guided tours exploring caves and historical ruins to rentals that let you chart your own course. Whether you’re after a relaxing swim at Queen Giovanna’s Baths, a photo-worthy paddle along Ieranto Bay, or simply want to glide past cliffs and hidden beaches, there’s an option for every water lover. For a memorable trip, try combining a guided tour with some independent paddling to get the best of both worlds, and book well in advance to secure your spot on these popular adventures.