What to wear (and bring) kayaking on the Algarve coast

You don't need much for a half-day on the water, but the right few things make all the difference.

Wear: quick-dry shorts and a rash top or t-shirt, a hat with a strap, and sandals or water shoes you can swim in. Swimwear underneath — you'll want to jump in.

Bring: reef-safe sunscreen (the sun bounces off the water and burns faster than you expect), a dry bag for your phone and keys, and a bottle of water. A GoPro on a floating strap is ideal; a phone on a lanyard works too.

Leave behind: anything you'd be sad to lose to the sea, and loose hats. Everything else — kayak, paddle, life jacket — comes with your booking.