Sea Kayaking Polignano a Mare Sea Caves

Sea kayaking at Polignano a Mare explores the sea caves, natural arches and hidden coves carved into the limestone cliffs of Italy's Adriatic coast in Puglia. Guided tours run by Apulia Kayak Adventures set off from Spiaggia Cala Porto, the small beach beneath the old town, and follow a 5–8 km coastal route that passes grottoes such as the cave below the Grotta Palazzese restaurant and the dramatic Lama Monachile inlet. Calm sections allow swimming and snorkelling stops where the water is clear and turquoise. The activity is designed for beginners and families: no previous paddling experience is required, but participants should be comfortable in open water and have moderate fitness for 2.5–3 hours of intermittent paddling. The operator generally sets a minimum age of around 8 years, with younger children sharing a stable tandem sit-on-top kayak with an adult. Kayaks, paddles, a buoyancy aid and a waterproof bag for valuables are included; participants bring swimwear, a hat, reef-safe sunscreen, water and, ideally, a waterproof phone pouch. Guides are qualified sea-kayak instructors who give a land briefing covering paddle strokes, capsize recovery and group signals before launching, and they carry a first-aid kit and means of communication. Tours stay close to the coast so paddlers can reach shore quickly or be towed if the wind freshens. The best season runs from May to September, when the sea is warmest and the morning air is calmest; departures are often scheduled early because afternoon sea breezes and any northerly swell can make the caves unsafe to enter. Prices are typically around €40–55 (~$43–59) per person. The clear morning light makes the cliffs and caves especially photogenic, and the route pairs naturally with a stroll through Polignano's whitewashed old town on the headland above Cala Porto.