Cape Town’s waters deliver some of Africa’s most rewarding paddling experiences. The city’s coastal routes offer close encounters with dolphins, seals, and African penguins, particularly around Boulders Beach. Two standout locations – the V&A Waterfront and Hout Bay – serve as main launching points, with full equipment provided.
I especially recommend the morning tours from the V&A Waterfront, when the water is calmest and marine life most active. The Chapman’s Peak paddle ranks as my favorite route, combining dramatic cliffs with frequent seal sightings. For families, the gentler Boulders Beach excursion provides the best value, letting you get remarkably close to penguin colonies.
Now let’s look at our recommended kayak and canoe tours in Cape Town.
Key Points
- Explore the stunning natural landscapes of Cape Town with a variety of guided kayak tours, including trips to Boulders Beach to see African penguins.
- Enjoy exceptional ratings and reviews for popular kayak experiences like the Atlantic Outlook Kayak Tour, Kayak Adventure in Table Mountain National Reserve, and Hout Bay Guided Kayaking.
- Benefit from convenient features like free cancellation, reserve now-pay later options, and hotel pickup for a seamless and hassle-free kayaking adventure.
- Spot diverse marine life such as dolphins, seals, and whales during scenic kayak tours along the Clifton beaches and Chapmans Peak.
- Enjoy the captivating natural surroundings and forge social connections with fellow participants through the small group sizes offered by many kayak experiences.
Atlantic Outlook Kayak Tour Cape Town
For those seeking to experience the natural beauty of Cape Town from a unique vantage point, the Atlantic Outlook Kayak Tour offers an unforgettable adventure.
With a 4.8 rating from 182 reviews and a 96% recommendation rate, this guided tour is suitable for beginners and experienced kayakers alike.
Launching from Granger Bay Boulevard, the tour takes participants along the Atlantic coastline, providing the chance to spot dolphins, seals, and penguins.
Included in the price are professional guides, kayaking equipment, and refreshments.
While not recommended for those with certain health conditions, this tour is an excellent way to explore Cape Town’s stunning natural landscapes from the water.
Read our full review: Atlantic Outlook Kayak Tour Cape Town Review
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Cape Town: Private Guided Kayak Tour
This private guided kayak tour in Cape Town offers an intimate and immersive experience for those seeking to explore the city’s stunning coastline.
The 1.5-hour tour departs from Clifton 4th Beach, where you’ll paddle through rock pools and kelp forests, taking in breathtaking views of Table Mountain, Lion’s Head, and the Twelve Apostles.
You’ll also have the chance to visit a small seal colony and use diving masks to observe the underwater life.
The tour is priced from $41.46 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
A reserve now and pay later option is available, making it a convenient choice for your Cape Town adventure.
Read our full review: Cape Town: Private Guided Kayak Tour Review
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Kayak Adventure in Cape Town, Table Mountain National Reserve
Set out on a thrilling kayak adventure within the captivating Table Mountain National Reserve in Cape Town. Rated 4.9 with 98% of travelers recommending it, this experience offers the perfect opportunity to explore the serene marine environment.
With a maximum group size of 16, you’ll paddle through the clear waters, spotting seals, dolphins, and penguins along the way. The knowledgeable and friendly guides ensure a safe and enjoyable journey, catering to various fitness levels.
Conveniently located, the tour departs and returns to the Three Anchor Bay Slipway, with parking available nearby. Enjoy the natural beauty of Cape Town’s coastline and create unforgettable memories on this kayak adventure.
Read our full review: Kayak Adventure in Cape Town, Table Mountain National Reserve Review
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Intaka Island Kayak Tour
Located in Century City, the Intaka Island Kayak Tour offers a captivating opportunity to explore the natural wonders of this island sanctuary. Priced from Kč 463 per person, the 30-minute guided adventure is limited to 6 participants, with the chance to spot magnificent birdlife and Table Mountain as a backdrop.
While the tour includes equipment and a knowledgeable guide, food, drinks, and gratuities aren’t provided. Suitable for adventure photographers and beginner paddlers, the experience is weather-dependent and not recommended for children under 8.
With a 1/5 rating based on a single review citing issues with pickup and communication, potential customers should consider this feedback before booking.
Read our full review: Intaka Island Kayak Tour Review
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Kayak to the Penguins in Simons Town
Visitors can paddle their way to witness the captivating African penguins at Boulders Beach in Simons Town, a renowned Cape Town destination.
The 4.7-rated activity, operated by Gravity Micro Adventures, allows up to 16 travelers to embark on a scenic kayak tour to see these unique birds. Priced at SEK 357.88 per person, the tour includes all necessary equipment and a professional guide.
While sightings of penguins, seals, and dolphins are common, the location can change, so specific wildlife encounters aren’t guaranteed. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, but note challenges with kayak control.
Early morning tours are recommended for the best wildlife viewing experience.
Read our full review: Kayak to the Penguins in Simons Town Review
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Cape Town: Guided Kayak Tour of Clifton Beaches & The Coast
Travelers can enjoy a guided kayak tour along Cape Town’s Clifton Beaches and coastline, offering a unique perspective of this picturesque city.
Priced from €31.39 per person, the 1.5-hour tour allows participants to paddle past Clifton Beach, ranked one of the world’s top 10 beaches.
Along the way, kayakers will take in views of Table Mountain, Lion’s Head, and the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range, as well as explore rock pools, kelp forests, and a small seal colony.
An optional diving mask lets guests peek underwater.
The tour includes all necessary equipment and hotel pickup and drop-off, making it an accessible and convenient way to experience Cape Town’s stunning natural beauty.
Read our full review: Cape Town: Guided Kayak Tour of Clifton Beaches & The Coast Review
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Paddle With the Penguins
Paddling alongside Africa’s only native penguin species is a bucket-list experience for many visitors to Cape Town.
Aptly named “Paddle with the Penguins,” this highly-rated activity allows adventurers to kayak alongside the adorable African penguins in their natural habitat. Based in Simons Town, the tour provides all necessary equipment, from sea kayaks and safety gear to water and sunscreen.
Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides who offer an informative and safe experience, even for those with limited fitness. With a maximum group size of 15, this tour promises an intimate encounter with the playful penguins along the picturesque Cape Town coastline.
Read our full review: Paddle With the Penguins Review
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Cape Town: Day or Night Guided Kayak Tour in Battery Park
Embarking on a guided kayak tour in Cape Town’s Battery Park offers visitors a unique opportunity to discover the city’s waterfront landscapes.
The tour, available in both daytime and nighttime options, provides a 1-hour experience for up to 10 participants. Equipped with state-of-the-art double kayaks and essential safety gear, guests can paddle through the park’s picturesque canals and enjoy breathtaking views.
The family-friendly activity is led by knowledgeable guides who provide a short safety briefing.
With an overall rating of 4.7/5 from 15 reviews, the tour is praised for its exceptional guides, engaging experiences, and excellent value.
Travelers express a high intent to return for future daytime trips after enjoying the nighttime outings.
Read our full review: Cape Town: Day or Night Guided Kayak Tour in Battery Park Review
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Guided Kayaking in Hout Bay
Hout Bay’s tranquil waters beckon adventure-seekers to take part in a guided kayaking excursion.
With 10 glowing reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this activity is a must-try for visitors to Cape Town.
The tour includes all necessary equipment, including a waterproof cellphone casing, and accommodates up to 24 travelers.
Priced at €24.17 per person, the experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s conveniently located near public transportation.
Guests should have a moderate fitness level, as the activity isn’t recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions.
Read our full review: Guided Kayaking in Hout Bay Review
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Cape Town: Marine Life Kayak Tour From the V&A Waterfront
Nestled along the picturesque V&A Waterfront lies the activity provider’s office, serving as the starting point for the captivating Marine Life Kayak Tour.
Lasting two hours, this excursion offers the chance to encounter fascinating marine life, including dolphins, whales, seals, and penguins, all while enjoying stunning vistas of Table Mountain, Lions Head, and the Twelve Apostles.
No prior kayaking experience is necessary, as the stable kayaks are suitable for beginners. Qualified guides share their extensive ocean knowledge, ensuring a safe and enjoyable adventure.
With a group size limited to 10 participants and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a flexible and memorable way to explore Cape Town’s captivating coastline.
Read our full review: Cape Town: Marine Life Kayak Tour From the V&A Waterfront Review
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Cape Town Sea Kayaking Adventure Launching From V&A Waterfront
The Cape Town Sea Kayaking Adventure from the V&A Waterfront provides an exhilarating opportunity to explore the city’s picturesque coastline.
Located opposite the Jolly Roger Pirate Boat and Tigresses catamaran, the tour meets at the Waterfront Kayak shop and ends at the Oceana Power Boat Club.
With a maximum of 8 travelers, the activity is suitable for most and includes provided lifejackets and paddles.
Reviewers praise the convenient location and stable boats, making it ideal for beginners. However, those with back problems may want to consider other options.
At $28.40 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for flexibility in planning.
Read our full review: Cape Town Sea Kayaking Adventure Launching From V&A Waterfront Review
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Kayak Chapmans Peak and Karbonkelberg in Hout Bay
Situated within the picturesque Hout Bay, the Kayak Chapmans Peak and Karbonkelberg adventure offers paddlers a chance to explore the dramatic coastline and surrounding peaks.
Operated by Gravity Micro Adventures, this activity is priced from $53.95 per person and can accommodate up to 12 travelers. The experience includes the use of kayaking equipment and personal gear.
Participants will meet at the Hout Bay Boatyard before embarking on their journey, returning to the same location at the end. With a moderate physical fitness level required, this activity isn’t wheelchair accessible but is near public transportation.
Boasting an impressive 5.0 rating based on 7 reviews, this kayaking excursion provides an excellent way to experience the natural beauty of the Cape Town region.
Read our full review: Kayak Chapmans Peak and Karbonkelberg in Hout Bay Review
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Recap
Cape Town offers a variety of exceptional canoeing and kayaking experiences. From guided tours showcasing the city’s stunning natural landscapes to self-guided adventures, there’s something for every skill level. Whether you’re spotting marine life, paddling past penguins, or exploring hidden bays, these water-based activities provide an unparalleled way to discover the beauty of the Mother City.