Sea Cave Kayak Tour with Snorkelling and Islands Pula

The sea cave near Pula

The highlight of this Pula sea cave kayak tour is the cave itself. The limestone coast of Istria is full of hollows carved by waves over thousands of years, and from a kayak you can slip inside at water level, where the light turns turquoise and the sound of the paddle echoes off the walls. Reaching a cave by sea is far more atmospheric than seeing it from the shore.

Your guide leads the group, chooses the safest line for the day's sea conditions and explains how the cave formed. Expect to spend a good part of the three hours paddling to and around it, with time for photographs. If you are planning things to do in Pula beyond the Roman sights, this is one of the most memorable.

Snorkelling in clear Adriatic water

After the cave comes the snorkelling stop. The water along this stretch of coast is known for its clarity, and a few strokes from the kayak you can see rocky seabed, small shoals of fish, sea grass and, with luck, a few of the creatures that hide in the crevices. Snorkelling equipment is included, so you only need swimwear.

A kayak and snorkelling tour in Pula works well even if you have never snorkelled: the guide shows you how to fit the mask, you stay close to the kayaks and the sea is usually calm in summer. Bring a water shoe or sandals if the rocks are sharp, and a towel for afterwards.

The island stop and the Istrian coastline

Island hopping by kayak gives you a better feel for the coast than a road ever could. Between the cave and the snorkelling spot you paddle past cliffs, small coves and pine-covered shores, then land at an island for a break, a swim and a look around before the paddle back.

This is a leisurely trip rather than a race, with rests built in, so fitness needs are moderate. Pula's position on the southern tip of the Istrian peninsula means the water is sheltered and the scenery changes constantly, which is why the coast is a favourite for a sea kayak day trip from the city.

Daytime or sunset: choosing your departure

There are two versions of this tour. The daytime tour leaves in the late morning or early afternoon, when the light is best for seeing into the water and for snorkelling. The sunset tour leaves later in the afternoon and gives you the same cave, snorkelling and island stop in softer, golden light, which many people prefer for photographs.

The best time to visit for warm water is from late spring to early autumn. Whichever you pick, check the meeting time in your confirmation, arrive a little early and wear your swimwear under light clothes so you are ready to launch.