Nikiti in Halkidiki is a fantastic base for exploring Greece’s stunning coastline and underwater worlds. The area’s crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and welcoming local operators make it perfect for water-based adventures. We’re especially fond of the Sithonia: Scuba Diving Experience for Beginners for its friendly guidance and confidence-building approach, and the Snorkeling Adventure in Sithonia for those who prefer to stay closer to shore. Whether you’re new to snorkeling or diving, these activities let you enjoy Greece’s vibrant underwater scenery without needing prior experience.
Nikiti offers a variety of tours suited for different interests and skill levels, from half-day guided dives to relaxing snorkeling trips. Each experience is designed to maximize your time in the water and introduce you to Halkidiki’s marine treasures. Below, you’ll find a detailed look at the best options to help you pick the perfect aquatic adventure.
1. Sithonia: Scuba Diving Experience for Beginners
At number one on our list is the Sithonia: Scuba Diving Experience for Beginners. This 3-hour session is ideal if you’re curious about scuba but hesitant about jumping straight into deep water. It begins with a safety briefing and a lesson from a PADI Instructor, where you’ll learn the basics of equipment and breathing techniques. Afterward, you’ll get comfortable in shallow water—an essential step—before heading out for your first real dive up to 12 meters deep, exploring a reef teeming with colorful fish.
What makes this experience stand out is the focus on safety and confidence. The instructor, often described as calm and passionate, guides you through every step. Many visitors praise the professionalism, with one reviewer noting, “John was very calm and passionate with explaining everything.” The underwater scenery adds a layer of magic, with vibrant fish and coral nearby. Plus, at the end, you receive a certificate of participation, a nice souvenir of your first dive.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for complete beginners who want a safe, supportive introduction to scuba diving with the chance to see Greece’s underwater beauty firsthand without a huge time commitment.
2. Sithonia: Half-Day Scuba Diving 2 Guided Shore Dives
Second on our list is the Half-Day Scuba Diving with Two Guided Shore Dives. Spanning around four hours, this tour is for those who already have some diving experience or feel comfortable trying two dives in a shorter time frame. All gear is provided, and the small group sizes ensure personalized attention from experienced PADI instructors.
The adventure takes place at Kalogria Beach, where you’ll enjoy two dives, each lasting about 50 minutes. The dives explore Halkidiki’s rich underwater environment with colorful fish, interesting rock formations, and possibly even octopuses. The tour includes a brief 15-minute safety briefing and a 30-minute break for rest and gear change, making it manageable even for first-timers who want to push a little further.
Many reviewers appreciate the professionalism and friendliness, with one noting, “Small groups and expert guides made the experience very enjoyable.” The scenery underwater is said to be lively, with vibrant fish and interesting structures. It’s an excellent option if you want to experience more than one dive and get a deeper taste of Halkidiki’s marine life.
Bottom line: This tour offers a solid introduction to guided shore dives, ideal for those with some diving background or those eager for two dives in a relaxed, intimate setting.
3. Chalkidiki: Snorkeling Adventure in Sithonia
Third on our list is the Snorkeling Adventure in Sithonia. This 3-hour guided trip is perfect for travelers who prefer to stay in shallow, calm waters while still exploring Greece’s marine life. It’s especially suited for families, beginners, or anyone who finds the idea of breathing through a snorkel more appealing than scuba gear.
The tour starts with a short safety briefing before entering the water at a calm, sandy beach—no boat trips or strenuous swims required. You’ll explore the underwater world with safe, clean snorkel equipment, observing sea stars, octopuses, and colorful reef fish. The tour includes round-trip hotel transfers within Sithonia, making it a hassle-free way to experience Greece’s underwater environment without worrying about logistics.
Reviewers love the friendliness of the guides and the quality of the equipment, with one noting, “The instructions were clear, and the gear was very good.” The ease of access and low impact makes this a great choice for those who want a relaxed introduction to snorkeling.
Bottom line: This snorkeling trip is ideal for those who want a gentle, guided underwater experience with minimal effort and maximum enjoyment, perfect for families or first-time snorkelers.
How to Choose
When deciding between these options, consider your comfort level in the water and how much time you want to spend underwater. For absolute beginners eager to try scuba diving, the Scuba Diving Experience for Beginners provides a safe, supportive environment. If you already have some experience or want to try multiple dives, the Half-Day Guided Shore Dives offer more depth and variety. For a relaxed, family-friendly introduction, the Snorkeling Adventure is a perfect choice.
Think about your schedule—these tours range from 3 to 4 hours—and your budget, as the prices are quite competitive for the quality and inclusivity offered. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak summer months, to secure your preferred date and time.
Nikiti and Halkidiki boast some excellent aquatic experiences, whether you’re just dipping your toes in or ready to explore underwater. The best choice depends on your confidence, interests, and how much time you want to dedicate. For those new to water sports, the scuba experience offers a gentle start. If you’re eager for a bit more, the half-day guided dives deliver two dives with expert guidance. And for a laid-back, family-friendly outing, the snorkeling trip makes marine exploration accessible and fun.
No matter which you choose, booking early and preparing for warm, clear waters will ensure you make the most of your time in Nikiti. Enjoy your adventure beneath the waves—Greece’s underwater world awaits.