Portugal · TOURS IN SETÚBAL
Good tours in Setúbal fill up weeks ahead and the great ones go first. Below: the 10 to book early, what each includes and how they differ.
Set sail from Setúbal for a two-hour dolphin search aboard a spacious catamaran. Marine biologists guide you in Portuguese and English, explain the resident dolphins and Arrábida coast, and pause for a swim. A Moscatel welcome drink, underwater viewing rooms, toilets, and drinks for purchase add comfort.
“I loved that it was suitable for all ages, reasonably priced, knowledgeable and respectful of the season and it's creatures.”
From Sesimbra, paddle a double kayak along Arrábida Natural Park with guides such as Tomás, André, or Ruben. Expect calm coves, narrow sea caves, a 40-minute stop at Ribeiro do Cavalo Beach, local sweets, and a swim. The 3-hour trip covers about 7 kilometers and suits first-timers with reasonable fitness.
“Amazing! It was not too crowded and the water was crystal clear. Would 100% recommend.”
Leave Lisbon Zoo by van for a seven-hour coastal adventure in Arrábida Natural Park. Paddle clear water, enter limestone caves, snorkel near Anicha Rock, and take optional cliff jumps. Guides António and Miguel add local history, safety help, photos, and a cheerful soundtrack. Wetsuits, kayaks, masks, flippers, tea, coffee, and cookies are included.
“this was SO FUN !! antonio was our guide and he was so knowledgeable. it was a nice mix of portuguese history and outdoor activities !!”
Join a two-hour speedboat trip from Setúbal Bay to look for wild bottlenose dolphins near Arrábida Natural Park. Guides speak English, Portuguese, and Spanish, and guides such as Rafa and Alex explain the local dolphin family and coastline. The boat offers open viewing, with swimming possible on some departures.
“Excellent. It was a very calm day but a jumper / coat was still needed. We saw an excellent display from the dolphins, the staff were great and booking was very easy. Highly recommended.”
You paddle from Sesimbra with an English- or Portuguese-speaking guide, pass through sea tunnels and Frade’s Cave, stop at a quiet beach, and swim at Ribeira do Cavalo. Guides such as Tomas, João, and Eduardo are praised for patient instruction. The three-hour trip is easiest in the morning, when wind is usually lighter.
“the kayaking was very fun, the place is stunning and the guide was so friendly. Highly recommend if you're looking for a fun, unique experience and an up close look at the beautiful natural caves.”
Cruise from Setúbal along the Sado estuary and Arrábida coast in a fast, open boat. Look for bottlenose and common dolphins, pass turquoise beaches, cliffs, caves, and small islands, and hear about the area from an English, Portuguese, or Spanish-speaking crew. Summer swims may be possible.
“They did an amazing job... they did not give up until we found the dolphins! It was an amazing experience! Thank you”
Leave Sesimbra with a marine biologist and STCW-certified crew for three hours among the coves and waters of Arrábida Natural Park. Catarina and her team explain dolphin behavior, seabirds and conservation while you search for wildlife, then visit Praia da Mijona and Ribeiro do Cavalo Beach, with time for swimming and snorkeling when conditions allow.
“Super chill guide and boat. We saw lots of dolphins, 2 different kinds. Great trip”
From Sesimbra, cruise through Arrábida Natural Park toward Cabo Espichel, stopping at Ribeiro do Cavalo, Mijona, Inferno, and Baleeira beaches. You’ll swim and snorkel in clear Atlantic water, hear stories about local fishermen, explore sea caves, and taste a typical Setúbal-region drink. Guides may speak English, Portuguese, Spanish, or French.
“This activity was amazing- our tour guide Catarina ensured before arrival that we find the meeting point and was helpful at all times. She provided lots of interesting information about the area of Sesimbra and beaches around. It’s a great mixture of fun, swimming and infos. We even were lucky and saw dolphins. We would recommend the tour and do it again once we are back. :)”
Paddle a sit-on-top canoe through the Luís Saldanha Marine Park with guides such as David, Diogo, or Santiago. Expect limestone cliffs, sea caves, coves, a beach break with a Portuguese pastry, and three hours on the water. Lisbon transfer is available, but the full outing can take up to five hours.
“The guide, David, was super, more than you'd expect for the price. He not only showed us hidden corners, but also added some action to the tour. He even drove over and between rocks if we wanted, which was quite adventurous. We had a private tour with him, which was much better than being in a large group. Three hours of kayaking with short breaks that we could call ourselves, and a quick stop at the beach. All that for 35 euros is a dream. You cant get a better guide. Thank you for that unforgettable Tour.”
Ride from the pine forest to Melides beach, with dunes, ocean views, and a stop near the freshwater lagoon for birdwatching. The pace is mostly walking, with a possible trot or gallop for experienced riders if the guide approves. Guides including Magdalena, Luis, and Filipa help beginners feel at ease. Helmets are included.
“This was my most favorite part of our vacation. the staff was very kind, knowledgable, and tons of fun. The horses are so good and know every step of the trail with their eyes closed. Our guide, Magdelena, was so much fun and made the hour Read more”
Pick a coastline, a cellar or a trail.
