Every day we deliver kayaks to the beach and see everything: people arriving perfectly prepared — and those who forget water under the August sun. After hundreds of rentals, here is the definitive list of what to bring for a perfect kayak day in Sardinia.
1. Safety — Non-negotiable Essentials
Before fun comes safety. These items are mandatory, no exceptions:
Safety Kit
2. Hydration and Food
Kayaking makes you sweat far more than you'd expect, especially in summer with the sun reflecting off the water. Golden rule: bring double the water you think you need.
Food & Drink
3. Sun Protection
Kayaking exposes you to direct sun and water reflection, which amplifies UV rays by 25–30%. It's very easy to burn in just 2 hours on the water.
UV Protection
4. Snorkelling and Underwater Exploration
A kayak is perfect for reaching coves that are inaccessible from land — and then jumping in. Make sure to bring:
Snorkel Gear
5. Gadgets and Comfort
Extras
What NOT to Bring
Knowing what to leave at home is just as important:
- Heavy backpack — cumbersome and destabilising; use flat bags strapped under the kayak cords
- Glass or tin containers — dangerous if they break; use plastic or silicone
- Unprotected valuables — leave expensive jewellery, loose sunglasses and open wallets behind
Pre-Excursion Check — 15 Minutes Before Launch
Having everything packed is not enough. Here is the quick check we run every morning before delivering kayaks:
Weather — the Most Important Check
Check wind forecasts on Windy.com the evening before. Look at wind speed at 10 metres and direction. Beyond 10–12 knots from the NW (maestrale) on the exposed coasts of Olbia and Golfo Aranci, the excursion becomes tiring and potentially risky for inexperienced paddlers.
Departure Time
The best weather window is the morning: 08:00 to 12:00 the sea is almost always flat, even in peak summer. After 14:00 the maestrale regularly picks up. Leaving at 09:00 means 3–4 hours of optimal paddling conditions.
Choosing the Right Route
Having the right gear and leaving at the right time matters — but you also need to choose a route suited to your level. Check our guide to the 5 best kayak routes around Olbia with precise distances, times and difficulty ratings, or our guide to the hidden coves of Golfo Aranci if you want to explore the caves at Capo Figari. For beginners or families with children, the San Teodoro to Cala Brandinchi route is the perfect choice.
Ready to explore Sardinia by kayak?
Book your kayak with beach delivery in Olbia, Golfo Aranci or San Teodoro. All safety equipment included. Prices from €40.
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