Looking for a summer vacation spot that offers plenty of outdoor activities? Portugal is a great choice! This beautiful country is home to some stunning kayaking spots.
If you're looking to get out on the water and explore some amazing scenery, then read on for tips on choosing the best kayak for your trip and our list of the top kayaking spots in Portugal.
Choosing The Perfect Kayak For Your Trip
Before getting into the best spots for kayaking locations in Portugal, let's cover our basis. It's important to stay safe and well prepared for your trip with the best budget kayak. Here are some things to consider when choosing a kayak for your trip:
- The type of water you'll be paddling in (eg. river, lake, or ocean)
- Your level of experience (eg. beginner, intermediate or advanced)
- The length and width of the kayak (this will affect stability and speed)
- The weight capacity of the kayak (this will determine how much gear you can take with you)
Without further ado, here is our list of the top kayaking spots in Portugal:
Arrabida National Park
If you're looking for a breathtaking kayaking experience this summer, look no further than Arrábida National Park in Portugal. With its dramatic cliffs, tranquil turquoise waters, and diverse marine life, Arrábida is one of the most beautiful places in Portugal to go kayaking. Here are just a few reasons why you should visit Arrábida National Park for an unforgettable kayaking adventure:
The dramatic cliffs of the park provide a stunning backdrop for your kayaking trip. You'll paddle past towering cliffs, lush vegetation, and crystal-clear waters - it's an unbeatable way to take in the natural beauty of Portugal.
Arrábida National Park is home to a diverse range of marine life, including dolphins, turtles, and a variety of fish. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as you paddle through the park - you might even be lucky enough to spot a dolphin swimming alongside you!
The turquoise waters of Arrábida National Park are calm and tranquil, making it the perfect place to relax and take in the stunning scenery. Whether you're an experienced kayaker or a beginner, you'll enjoy exploring the park by kayak.
The Douro River
The Douro River is one of the most beautiful spots in the country and it's perfect for a day of kayaking. Here are some of the top reasons why you should visit the Douro River this summer.
The first reason to visit the Douro River is for its stunning scenery. The river winds through mountains and valleys, providing breathtaking views at every turn. You'll also get to see a variety of wildlife including birds, fish, and even turtles sunning themselves on the rocks.
Another great reason to go kayaking on the Douro River is for its peacefulness. The river is relatively calm, making it ideal for a relaxing day on the water. You can paddle at your own pace and take in the scenery without having to worry about waves or other kayakers.
If you're looking for an adventure, there are also some great spots for whitewater kayaking on the Douro River. These sections of the river are perfect for those who want a little more excitement on their trip.
Costa Vicentina
Costa Vicentina is located on the southwest coast of Portugal, Costa Vicentina is one of the most popular kayaking destinations in the country. With its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and abundance of marine life, it's no wonder why so many people flock to this area to paddle.
Ria Formosa
Another top spot for kayaking in Portugal is Ria Formosa. This protected lagoon is located on the southeastern coast of the country and is known for its calm waters and stunning views. The relaxing water is perfect for a leisurely paddle, and you'll be able to take in the beautiful scenery as you go.
Pena Palace
For something a little different, why not paddle around Pena Palace? This 19th-century palace is located in Sintra and can be reached by kayak from nearby beaches. It's a great way to see this historic landmark from a unique perspective.
Berlengas Archipelago
Berlengas Archipelago is located just off the coast of Portugal, Berlengas Archipelago is a group of small islands that offer breathtaking views. The archipelago is also home to a variety of wildlife, making it a great place for nature lovers.
Sintra-Cascais Natural Park
This park is located just outside of Lisbon and it offers beautiful scenery, calm waters, and plenty of wildlife to see.
The Sintra-Cascais Natural Park is one of the best places to paddle in Europe, and it's also surprisingly budget-friendly. Here are some of the reasons why you should put this park on your must-visit list.
The scenery is unlike anything you've ever seen before. Paddling through crystal clear waters surrounded by towering cliffs is an otherworldly experience. And because the park is so vast (spanning over 26,000 acres), there's always something new to explore.
Another great thing about kayaking in Sintra-Cascais is that there's no need for a guide. The park is well-marked and easy to navigate, so you can paddle at your own pace and explore at your own leisure.
Azores
Snorkeling in the Azores is another top spot for tourists who come to Portugal during the summer months. The water temperatures are comfortable enough to spend hours swimming around and exploring the underwater world. If you're lucky, you might even spot a turtle or two! So, if you're looking for a great place to go kayaking and snorkeling this summer, be sure to add the Azores to your list!
Tavira Island
Tavira Island is known for its clear water and stunning beaches. There are many kayaking spots on the island, but one of the best is Praia de Tavira. This beach has a long stretch of sand and plenty of space to explore by kayak.
You can paddle around the island and stop at secluded beaches for a swim or a picnic. There are also several restaurants on the island, so you can enjoy a meal with a view of the ocean.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable kayaking experience, be sure to add Portugal to your list of destinations. With its stunning coastline, diverse landscape, and friendly locals, Portugal is a kayaker’s paradise. From the beautiful Arrabida National Park to the Douro River Valley and beyond, these are some of the best spots in Portugal for an amazing kayaking trip this summer. Just be sure you grab the proper kayaking gear so you can have fun and stay safe!
