If you’re heading to Tenerife and want to swap the beach towel for something a little more adventurous (but still super relaxing), we’ve got the perfect activity for you!
On July 3rd we spent the morning out on the ocean with BreathingWater Tenerife, kayaking along the island’s volcanic coast and snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, and honestly? It was amazing!
A peaceful start in authentic Alcalá
We met our guide, Mehran, in the quiet harbour of Alcalá. Unlike the busier tourist hubs, Alcalá still feels local, raw, and real. The perfect place to begin a mindful experience like this one.
Before getting into the kayaks, Mehran gave us a short but thorough safety and theory briefing. His calm energy and clear instructions made us feel totally at ease, even those of us who had never been in a kayak before. Professional and kind, he was the kind of guide you hope for: experienced but never pushy, respectful of both the ocean and the people in it.
Paddling along the volcanic coastline
Once we hit the water, everything else kind of faded away. The coastline around Alcalá is simply breathtaking, with lots of volcanic rock formations, hidden sea caves, and deep-blue water stretching out in every direction.
We paddled in 3 single-kayaks, and 1 double-kayak, which both proved to be easy to manage and surprisingly fun. The route we followed changed slightly based on the weather and our group’s experience level, which made everything feel more personal and natural, not like a pre-packaged tour.
For those feeling adventurous, there were chances to climb onto coastal rocks or explore narrow caverns. But there was never any pressure, just encouragement to connect with the surroundings in whatever way felt right.
A window into Tenerife’s underwater world
After kayaking, it was time to snorkel! We dropped anchor near some rocky shallows for a snorkelling session. The visibility underwater was perfect: we spotted loads of colourful fish, sea urchins, and even the sea turtle, which had resurfaced on the surface of the water to breathe.
There’s also a chance to swim around underwater pinnacles and, if you’re lucky, you might spot a barracuda or even a stingray. It’s not a zoo, so nothing’s guaranteed, but that’s part of the magic: you’re in their world now.
But because the groups are so small (max 6 people), the whole experience felt quiet and respectful, both for us and for the ocean.
More than just a tour: a real connection
What stood out the most was how intimate and sustainable the whole experience felt. Breathing Water Tenerife keeps their groups small on purpose, to reduce impact on nature and make space for genuine connection, not just with the sea, but with each other. This is not about adrenaline or flashy equipment. It’s about slowing down, paying attention, and feeling part of something bigger.
If you’re visiting Tenerife and looking for something that’s eco-friendly, personal, and unforgettable, this is it. Kayaking with Breathing Water was more than an activity, it was a chance to reconnect with nature and ourselves.
Want to try it yourself?
Breathing Water Tenerife offers several tour options:
- Half Day (3h): Kayaking and snorkelling along the coast
- Full Day (5h): A deeper experience with more exploring
- Sunset Tour (2h): Kayaking under the golden light of the setting sun
- Private Tours: A custom experience, just for you or your group
All trips depart from Alcalá, Tenerife, and all equipment is provided.
Booking is super easy, just message them on WhatsApp at +34 604 34 77 52 or email info@breathingwater.eu with your preferred date, group size, and type of tour!
A final big thank you to our guide Mehran, who was incredibly friendly and chill, we’ll see each other soon!
Canary Green’s tips to enjoying sustainable tourism in Canary Islands
Visiting Canary Islands on holiday doesn’t give you free rein to leave your values and principles at home. We encourage travellers to seek out sustainable options and keep up with environmental practices while travelling. Our top tips for a relaxed and wholesome stay include:
- Consider green transport options. Are you able to take a ferry to the island instead of flying? While you are here is a car necessary? Investigate public transport links or choose green options such as electric cars, green-hydrogen cars or e-bikes.
- Choose destinations that value sustainability and choose green alternatives such as solar power, recycling and energy-efficient architecture. This extends to places that value workers’ rights and the impact on the local community.
- Bring your own water bottle with you and refill it instead of buying single-use plastic bottles.
- Make use of the recycling when out and about and don’t just throw your rubbish in the nearest bin.
- Take advantage of local knowledge and immerse yourself in the culture through campaigns such as #Ilovecanarias and #meatfreemondaycanarias.
- Most of all, have fun and enjoy your time in the Canary Islands.
Thank you
Thank you to everyone involved in this Canary Green project where our aim is to help promote sustainable tourism in the Canary Islands.
Do you want us to find you more sustainable choices? Please support us and donate today!
- John Beckley; Founder of Canary Green non profit
- Canary Green non profit:
- Photographers & Videomakers:
Karolína Lišková, Barbora Kučerová, Nataliia Tataurova, Luca Buiatti,
- Environmental chemist & Sustainable Tourism Consultant: Luca Buiatti
- Social Media Coordinator: Nataliia Tataurova
- Account Manager: Barbora Kučerová
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