Top picks · SEA KAYAKING IN AUSTRALIA
The 6 best sea kayaking tours in Australia you can book today, with what each costs, how long you are on the water and who it suits. Number one earns its place; start there.
Paddle a two-person sea kayak through Byron Bay’s marine reserve with English-speaking guides. You’ll learn about Aboriginal culture, local history, and ocean wildlife, then try riding a wave onto the beach. Guides such as Pete and Chris have been praised for keeping the mood fun and safety-focused. Wildlife sightings are likely, but never guaranteed.
“Amazing to see whales, dolphins and turtles up close”
Join guide Dane for a five-hour morning sea-kayak trip from Huskisson into Booderee National Park. Paddle toward Murrays Beach and Bowen Island, look for dolphins, stingrays, penguins, sea eagles, seals, and migrating whales, then stop at a secluded beach for cake, fruit, and hot drinks. The small group is limited to eight people.
“Fantastic trip...Dane was very informative and would definitely recommend doing a trip with him. He couldn't have been more helpful.”
Spend six hours crossing Noosa North Shore by 4WD and paddling around Double Island Point and Honeymoon Bay. Guides such as Vince and Tyron lead the kayak session, point out wildlife, and share coastal stories. Bring lunch, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a change of clothes. Wildlife sightings are common but never guaranteed.
“Fantastic day had on the Noosa: Dolphin Sea Kayak & Beach 4x4 Tour. Our guides were excellent from the outset making sure we were all relaxed and happy. The beach drive was amazing with the 4x4 vehicle slowing or stopping from time to time with the guide telling us interesting facts. The kayaking was great and Double Island Point is the most beautiful setting for such an activity. During our kayak we saw dolphins, turtles and stingrays. The guides stayed with us throughout and made sure we had a fun time but were safe. We travelled with two teenagers who loved every minute of it. Thanks for the memories 😀”
Paddle from Shoalwater to Seal Island and Penguin Island in a double sea kayak with guides such as Jimmy, Ryan, or Rosie. You’ll receive instruction, safety gear, lunch, and a guided island walk. Sea lions and pelicans are regular highlights, while snorkeling is offered from December to March. The six-hour trip suits beginners with moderate fitness.
“We loved it. The kayaking needs confidence - but they teach you all about it and make sure you’re safe, They give you everything you need and more - life jackets, hats, rash vests, jumpers, dry bags - they even pack lunch for you and fresh water!!! You need to take your flip flops to walk around penguin island it can be hard on your feet otherwise. Such a happy day - would do it again.”
Join Rivergods for a six-hour sea-kayak trip from Perth to Shoalwater Bay. Paddle a tandem kayak to see Australian sea lions, explore Penguin Island with a biologist guide such as Tom, enjoy a picnic lunch, snorkel, and watch pelicans and other coastal wildlife. No kayaking experience is required.
“Belle journée Dommage que les pingouins et les lions de mer ne soient pas venus nous voir Pas de dauphins on pensait qu’on y en aurait d’après le descriptif Mais la guide super Bravo”
Set out from Shingley Beach with an English-speaking guide and paddle about 6 km along Airlie Beach’s turquoise foreshore. In a group of up to eight, look for turtles, birds, and perhaps dugongs, learn local stories, visit three beaches, and swim if the tide allows. You need to swim, follow instructions, and handle a moderate workout.
“It was a fun, informative morning on the water. We wanted something quiet, away from the noise of boats, jetskis & traffic. Would recommend.”
Pick a coast, a river or a dark bay.
