KAYAKING

Paddle. Explore. Discover. Repeat.

Discover the Lizard Peninsula from the water with MAKAI’s unforgettable sea kayaking experiences. Inspired by the success of the much-loved Lizard Adventure, our guided kayak sessions explore one of Cornwall’s most dramatic and unspoilt coastlines from a truly unique perspective.

Paddle across clear, open water beneath towering cliffs, weave into hidden coves, and explore sea caves and quiet inlets that are inaccessible by land. Each journey is a perfect balance of exploration and excitement, offering a deeper connection to the wild beauty of the Cornish coast.

Our experienced, fully qualified instructors lead every session with care and confidence, tailoring the route, tempo, and level of challenge to match your group’s ability and ambitions. Safety underpins everything we do, giving you the freedom to switch off and soak up the experience — whether you’re stepping into a kayak for the very first time or seeking a more dynamic coastal adventure. With our expert team handling the details, you can simply enjoy the journey, take in the surroundings, and head home with stories that stay with you long after you’re back ahore!

Why choose MAKAI for kayaking?

Over 650 5* Reviews on Google and Tripadvisor

Choice of Single or Double Kayak

AALA Licensed Provider

Expert Local Knowledge

Group Tour

Our most popular kayak tour. Open sessions for friends, families, or explorers looking to join others.

£55 per person

Private Tour

A fully private session adapted to your group’s abilities, pace, and explorer preferences.

Prices start at £220 (minimum 2 people)

Family Tour

Specially designed for families wanting a private explore together. Emphasis on fun and safety.

Prices start at £220 (minimum 2 people)

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 262 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Paul Rush 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Kids didn’t stop talking about it they loved it. Riuri was very helpful and calm even when it is quite intimidating. Brilliant experience they can’t wait to try again
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Debbie Badger 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Our family of five (middle aged parents, two 21 year olds and a 16 year old) had a fantastic private coasteering session this Easter. Our guide Ruairi was very knowledgeable and took us on a fabulous route round to Hotpoint, with plenty of exciting jumps and fun tidal channels for everyone. We were lucky to have perfect conditions this year and the views of the coastline were absolutely stunning. We even saw seals! We have been coasteering a few times before but this was the best session we have done, and we would definitely return for another private session with Makai. Thank you.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   David Edwards 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a few family lessons at Gwithian Surf School. Well worth it! They are all lovely people but a particular thank you to our coach Ian, who has a great taste in music as well as outstanding coaching skills.

We hope to be back before too long.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Jess 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a surf lesson with Steph on Wednesday earlier this week and she was brilliant! The lesson was very informative and she really helped me improve my confidence and make quick progress from my one lesson I had previously at another surf school. I will definitely be returning and asking for Steph as she made me feel at ease and enjoy the session!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Glenn Oxborough 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Steph is a fantastic instructor. When teaching children she manages to focus on every single one with great motivation and instruction!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Tom 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing surf school, my daughter has really enjoyed every session so far and as a nervous swimmer lacking little confidence Steph (one of the excellent surf coaches) took the extra time out to help build up her confidence. Thanks
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Matthew Stopp 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had a lesson with Finn, and what an excellent coach. We were lucky as there was only 2 of us on the lesson so we got excellent one on one coaching, helping us progress massively. He took time explaining how to read waves and what will be good or bad. Extra credit due as the weather was torrential rain and he came back down the stairs to help with carrying the buggy back up the flooded steps for our spectating family. Top lad.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Bekka Rist 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Thank you for the great surflession for US and our children, we had a fanatastic time!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Dom Ventimiglia 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Gwithian Surf School Rocks!!!!! Lovely people and extremely good coaches, we’ve used several surf schools in Cornwall but this is by far best, Steph and her team are super attentive and very well organised.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Greg Wright 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a fantastic surfing lesson with Jamie. He was upbeat, knowledgeable, really friendly and took great care of our youngest son Lucas (9) who hasn’t stopped talking about surfing since! Gwithian (3 mile beach) is also heartbreakingly beautiful. 10/10 recommend ❤️
  
 
  
  
 
     Verified by Trustindex  Trustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more

Frequently Asked Questions

Where will we be kayaking?

When you book a paddlesport experience with MAKAI (kayaking or paddleboarding), your session will take place at one of two launch locations on the Lizard Peninsula: Mullion Harbour or Cadgwith.

The exact location is chosen by our team based on the safest and most suitable conditions on the day, including wind, swell, and sea state. For this reason, customers are not able to select a specific location at the time of booking.

We will confirm your session location the day before your booking via SMS and email, including full directions, where to meet, and what to bring—so you can arrive fully prepared and enjoy the best possible experience on the water.

Who are our kayak tours suitable for?

Our kayak tours are designed to suit a wide range of abilities and adventure levels. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, routes can include longer open-water paddles, exploring headlands and sea caves, and developing technical paddling skills. For those who prefer a more relaxed outing, we offer gentle coastal journeys at an easy pace, with plenty of time to explore sheltered coves, enjoy the scenery, and build confidence on the water. Every session is tailored to the group and the conditions on the day, ensuring an enjoyable and accessible experience for everyone.

Do you offer single and double kayaks?

When you book a kayak tour with MAKAI, we provide a choice of single and double sit-on-top kayaks. Single kayaks are ideal for those who want full control and a more independent paddling experience, while double kayaks are perfect for sharing the journey, building confidence, or paddling together as a pair. Our team will help select the most suitable option for you on the day, ensuring everyone is comfortable, safe, and ready to enjoy the tour.

What is the minimum age to participate?

Group Tour – The minimum age for participation is 5 years old. The minimum age to use a single kayak is 14 years old, unless the participant is younger and can prove they have prior competency at paddling a single kayak. Otherwise, any child aged between 5 and 14 years must be in a double kayak with a capable adult aged 18 years or above.

Private Tour – The minimum age for participation is 5 years old. However, the minimum age to use a single kayak is 14 years old, unless the participant is younger and can prove they have prior competency at paddling a single kayak. Otherwise, any child aged up to 14 years must be in a double kayak with a capable adult aged 18 years or above.

Do I need to need to be able to swim?

All participants must be able to swim in order to take part in an open-ocean kayak tour. While buoyancy aids are worn at all times, kayaking takes place in open water and participants should be comfortable being in the sea to ensure a safe, confident, and enjoyable experience throughout the tour.

What if it is raining, and/or windy on the day of my booking?

The safety of our customers and guides is always our top priority. If weather or sea conditions are deemed unsafe for kayaking—such as strong or gusty winds, large or unpredictable swell, poor visibility, or other hazardous open-water conditions—we will cancel the session and contact you as soon as possible to arrange a suitable alternative date or time.

Please note that kayak tours are not cancelled due to light rain or typical Cornish weather. Sessions will only be cancelled when conditions fall outside safe operating limits for open-ocean kayaking, allowing us to run tours whenever it is safe to do so while always putting safety first.

What if need to cancel our booking?

For full details of our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms and Conditions. Wherever possible, we always aim to be flexible and will do our best to rearrange any sessions you are unable to attend, provided sufficient notice is given.

Please note that sessions cancelled at very short notice, or where participants do not attend their booked session (no-shows), cannot be refunded. This is due to the advance planning required, including staff allocation, equipment preparation, and venue logistics.

What do I need to bring for a kayak tour?

For a kayak tour, it’s important to bring suitable clothing and footwear to keep you comfortable and safe on the water. All participants must wear appropriate footwear—bare feet are not permitted. This can include trainers, water shoes, or wetsuit boots that can get wet and provide grip when launching and landing. Flip-flops, sandals, or other loose footwear are not suitable.

Please bring swimwear to wear under your wetsuit, along with sunglasses and sunscreen for protection while out on the water. If you have your own wetsuit, either a shorty or full-length, you’re welcome to use it. If not, we will provide a wetsuit for you. Kayaks, paddles, and buoyancy aids are all supplied and must be worn during the session.

Please note: failure to bring suitable footwear may result in being unable to take part in the tour, and no refund will be given.

How long does a kayak tour last?

Each session lasts approximately 3 hours, including changing time. However, this can vary depending on group ability and conditions.

Kayaking not for you? Try our other Activities

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