Kayaking Around Ibiza: Everything You Need to Know

Paddling around Ibiza is one of the best things you can do in the Mediterranean. It's a great way to see the island from its most natural side: cliffs, hidden coves, sea caves and unspoiled beaches, all at the rhythm of the sea.

At Kayak Ibiza, we've spent years exploring the island's coastline. We know the winds well, the places to take shelter and the best times to paddle without trouble. That's why we know that this adventure takes more than just enthusiasm: it takes a good plan and someone who knows the area. 

It's a good idea to have some experience so the journey is more manageable. But if that's not your case, don't worry, plenty of adventurers manage to complete the trip. 

How many kilometres is the trip around Ibiza by kayak?

The island has about 210 km of coastline, but the final distance depends on the route you choose:

• Direct coastal route: 180–190 km
• Full route, hugging the entire coast: 200–210 km
• Route exploring every corner (coves and caves): more than 210 km

In a kayak, you rack up kilometres every day, even if it doesn't always feel like it.

How much time do you need to go around the island of Ibiza?

It's best to take several days to go around Ibiza by kayak without rushing. The most recommended option is to do it in 7 days. That length gives you time to visit caves and points of interest. 

If you have sea kayaking experience, paddle in straight lines and don't explore as much, it can take you 5 days. 

On the other hand, if you want to take it easy, don't have much experience and want to allow for bad-weather days, 8/9 days is the most you'll need.At Kayak Ibiza, we follow the rhythm of the sun: We start the day early at sunrise and try to take a break at midday, when the sun is strongest.
Then we set off again in the afternoon, reaching the beach at least an hour before sunset, so we have time to set up the base for the night.

How do you choose the right touring kayak?

For an adventure like this, you need a sea kayak designed for touring, specifically for navigating open waters. Not just any kayak is suitable for going around Ibiza.

It should be a closed model (sea kayak), with watertight compartments that keep your belongings dry throughout the route.

Another aspect to consider for a long expedition like the trip around Ibiza is the kayak's load capacity. You must have enough space for water, food, warm clothing, lightweight overnight gear and all the mandatory safety equipment.

Don't forget to bring safety equipment: these are items that can save your life in an emergency

• approved life jacket
• whistle
• bilge pump
• spray skirt 
• phone with battery in a waterproof case
• tow line
• double paddle (spare)
• first aid kit
• repair kit 

Kayaking around Ibiza: planning and safety

Daily planning is essential for a safe expedition around Ibiza. Every morning, before putting the kayak in the water, you should check the weather conditions: wind, sea state and the forecast for the coming hours. 

You should also take these aspects into account: 

• Always have a plan B. Routes should be flexible and adapt to the real conditions of the day. 
• Know the escape points. Study in advance where you can land in an emergency: accessible beaches, small harbours or sheltered coves. 
• Contact with land should never be lost. Tell someone you trust about your daily route, approximate timings and check points.

Ibiza is small, but the sea can change very quickly. Knowing when not to set out is just as important as knowing how to paddle well. Experience teaches you to read the signs: clouds forming rapidly, changes in the colour of the water or that feeling that something isn't quite right.

At Kayak Ibiza we advise on planning and safety, both for those who rent equipment from us and for other people who come to the island and ask us for advice.

We even stay in touch every day the trip lasts, to know where they are and make sure everything is fine. We also pass on information about the weather report and our recommendations on what to do that day.

We do this with everyone who comes to us for advice, and especially with those who rent equipment from us; in that case we do it without fail, for safety. 

What to take on a kayak expedition?

The gear you need for a kayak expedition must follow a golden rule: every item you bring has to justify its weight and space. On a multi-day trip, every gram counts, and overloading the kayak can ruin the experience.

The essentials:

• Life jacket
• Phone in a waterproof bag
• Sun protection, long-sleeved rash guard and cap
• Water and energy-giving food
• Suitable clothing for the weather, both for paddling and for being on land
• Small first aid kit
• GPS or maps you can use without internet (there are spots with no call/internet coverage)

As for organising your luggage: You need to stow the kayak well. Balance the weight on both sides. It's always better to carry more weight around you, in the centre and towards the stern at the back. The bow (front) should carry less weight. 

A well-organised kayak handles better, responds faster to your movements and lets you paddle for hours without discomfort.

Is it for everyone?

If you're active and adventurous you can complete it, but it's best to have some previous experience, so the experience is more manageable. 

If you don't yet have enough experience, you can prepare gradually with our shorter tours such as kayak and snorkelling or our sea kayak lessons tailored to different levels. 

Enjoy the Experience with Kayak Ibiza

At Kayak Ibiza we've been navigating these waters for years and we know the best hours to paddle, where to take shelter when the wind changes and the secret coves that can only be seen from the sea.

That's why our guided tour Around Ibiza by Kayak guides you through every stage. 

We also have shorter 2 or 4-day expeditions, perfect for living the experience without as much commitment. 

We'll be delighted to take you to discover Ibiza from its most authentic side, always safely and enjoying every moment.