Sea kayaking is a fabulous way to explore the coastlines of small islands and access remote bays. Sea kayaking trips often let you get closer to wildlife than exploring by larger vessels. You will also have fun as you paddle through the waves. There are great sea kayaking adventures to be found around the world, including along mainland coasts and dazzling islands.

You can hire kayaking equipment in many places. If you’re heading to more remote spots, however, you will need to take your own kayaks and gear. Be sure to secure equipment safely to your vehicle with Vault Cargo!

1. Crete, Greece

Crete is a tantalizing Greek island, famed for its stretching coastlines that are lapped by clear blue waters. The southern coast of Crete is the most picturesque are for fantastic sea kayaking adventures. The rugged coastline features a number of atmospheric sea caves. You can stop to rest on pretty pink-sand beaches and tranquil hidden bays. The coast is dotted with charming villages, some of which have active communities.

2. The Exumas, Bahamas

A top Caribbean destination for sea kayaking adventures, the Exumas is an archipelago within easy reach of the nation’s capital of Nassau. There are more than 350 islands and cays to discover in the sparkling turquoise waters.

Each of the three main areas—Great Exuma, Little Exuma and the Exuma Cays—has its own vibe. All offer superb vistas and a chance to uncover the laid-like lifestyle of the Bahamas. Steeped in history, the archipelago was home to British loyalists and their slaves after the American Revolution.

3. The Western Cape, South Africa

Hop into your kayak and explore South Africa’s Western Cape. The chilly waters of the Atlantic are inhabited by diverse wildlife, including seals, whales and dolphins. Kayak around Boulders Beach and watch the cute penguins that live along the coast. Langebaan is ideal for inexperienced sea kayakers, while Cape Point is perfect for those who want more of a challenge.

4. Andaman Coast, Thailand

Kayaking is a popular activity for people vacationing in the southern parts of the Land of Smiles. Phuket is the largest Thai island. It is surrounded by many other small islands and islets. Phang Nga Bay is a top place for sea kayaking, boasting the famous James Bond Island. Krabi province also attracts many keen sea kayakers, with highlights including Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta.

The warm waters along the Andaman Coast feature stunning karst scenery, with greenery-clad limestone islands and pinnacles speckling the emerald-blue waters. Despite the area’s immense popularity, kayaking lets you find quiet lagoons and beaches, far away from the crowds. You can also visit tiny villages and see lots of nature.

5. Lofoten Islands, Norway

Norway’s numerous islands and fjords offer sea kayaking adventures aplenty. The striking Lofoten Islands boast incredible mountain views and small fishing villages. Combine culture and nature on a memorable kayaking trip. Multi-day kayaking expeditions are an ideal way of enjoying highlights such as Reinefjord, Sund Sound, Flakstad Island, Napp Sound, Austvag Island, the Valberg Islands and Vagakallen.

6. The Barrier Reef, Belize

A spectacular Caribbean jewel, the Belize Barrier Reef has 450+ sandy islands to discover. It is the second-biggest barrier reef in the world. The waters are teeming with marine life and the palm-fringed islands tempt kayakers with pristine sandy shores. Hop from one gorgeous island to the next with ease in a kayak.

The magical islands of Fiji. The rugged Shetland Islands off the coast of the UK. Vietnam’s Halong Bay. The Danish territory of Greenland. The USA’s wilderness of Alaska. Off the coast of the Dominican Republic. These are all even more top places around the globe for sea kayaking adventures.