Adventure seekers will find excellent paddling opportunities in Destin and Fort Walton Beach. The area’s crystal-clear waters provide perfect conditions for both canoe and kayak excursions, with options ranging from guided eco-tours to nighttime bioluminescent experiences.
I’m particularly fond of the sunset tours along the harbor – they offer spectacular views and often include wildlife sightings. The guided eco-tours through the backwaters are another standout, combining education with exploration as you paddle past diverse coastal habitats.
Let’s examine the top kayak and canoe tours worth your time in Destin.
Key Points
- The Clear Kayak Ecotour in Destin offers a highly recommended 2-hour tour with a 95% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence.
- Paddle Board Rentals in Fort Walton Beach provide an affordable and flexible experience to explore the private islands in Gulf Islands National Seashore.
- Sunset Clear Kayak Tours in the area focus on tranquil waterways and stunning sunsets, with a personalized experience for up to 10 travelers.
- Glow Kayaking in Panama City, FL creates a captivating nighttime experience with illuminated kayaks, but has mixed feedback on the quality of the tour.
- The Clear Kayaking Eco Adventure Tour in Marianna, Florida, features unique underwater caves and limestone bluffs, with opportunities to spot local wildlife.
Clear Kayaking Eco Adventure Tour in Marianna
The Clear Kayaking Eco Adventure Tour in Marianna, Florida, offers a captivating exploration of the region’s natural wonders.
Travelers can paddle through underwater caves, alongside limestone bluffs, and spot diverse wildlife like turtles, fish, and birds. The small-group tour, limited to a maximum of 10 people, provides a personalized experience led by knowledgeable guides.
Participants can enjoy swimming in the caves and explore the Florida Caverns State Park and Blue Springs Recreational Park.
With high-quality equipment, including kayaks, life jackets, and dry bags, the tour caters to both novice and experienced adventurers.
Priced from $68 per person, this eco-friendly excursion has received excellent reviews for its stunning scenery and memorable experiences.
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Fort Walton Beach: Paddle Board Rental
In the coastal town of Fort Walton Beach, visitors can embark on a serene paddle board adventure. Paddle board rentals start at $35 per person, with durations ranging from 1 to 2 hours.
Adventurers can explore private islands in the Gulf Islands National Seashore, with calm waters ideal for relaxation and wildlife observation. The experience is suitable for all skill levels, with no prior experience required.
Rental packages include a stand-up paddle board, paddle, life jackets, and waterproof storage for personal items.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this activity offers a flexible and convenient way to enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
Read our full review: Fort Walton Beach: Paddle Board Rental Review
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Sunset Clear Kayak Tour Destin Ft. Walton Beach
Sunset Clear Kayak Tour offers visitors to Destin and Fort Walton Beach an enchanting opportunity to explore the area’s tranquil waterways.
The tour takes guests on a 2-hour journey in clear kayaks, allowing them to admire the stunning sunset views and abundant wildlife.
With a maximum capacity of 10 travelers, the tour provides a personalized experience.
While the majority of reviewers enjoyed the tour, some noted concerns about the guide’s level of engagement and safety during the return trip in the dark.
The tour remains a popular choice for those seeking a unique way to experience the natural beauty of the region.
Read our full review: Sunset Clear Kayak Tour Destin Ft. Walton Beach Review
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Fort Walton Beach: Tandem Kayak Rental
Tandem kayak rentals in Fort Walton Beach offer visitors a chance to explore the Emerald Coast’s crystal-clear waters and lush, secluded landscapes.
Priced at $35 per group of up to 2 people, these 1-2 hour excursions provide an opportunity to discover the area’s natural beauty. Paddlers can spot dolphins, seabirds, and other wildlife while navigating the Gulf Island National Seashore.
The rental includes a tandem kayak, paddles, safety equipment, and free parking. Experienced staff offer safety briefings and tips to ensure a safe and memorable adventure.
Participants must be at least 18 years old, and children must be accompanied by an adult. With a 5/5 rating, this is an excellent way to experience the Emerald Coast.
Read our full review: Fort Walton Beach: Tandem Kayak Rental Review
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Clear Kayak Ecotour Destin Ft. Walton Beach
The Clear Kayak Ecotour in Destin, Ft. Walton Beach offers a unique opportunity to explore the local waterways.
With 95% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour provides a peaceful and educational experience.
The €62.50 per person tour includes a tandem kayak, personal flotation device, and paddles.
Guests can expect to see stingrays, jellyfish, and various bird species, while knowledgeable guides share insights about the local ecosystem.
While some guests have noted challenges due to weather conditions, the overall feedback highlights the tour’s friendly staff, ability to accommodate different skill levels, and the chance to immerse in the natural beauty of the area.
Read our full review: Clear Kayak Ecotour Destin Ft. Walton Beach Review
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Clear Kayak Adventure in Fort Walton Beach
For an evening of tranquil paddling and rare wildlife sightings, the Clear Kayak Adventure in Fort Walton Beach offers a unique opportunity to explore the local waterways.
Suitable for all ages, the adventure includes life jackets and paddles, allowing participants to glide through the illuminated waters in search of fish and other marine life.
While the experience has received mixed reviews, with some praising the fun and affordability, others have noted a lack of guidance and poor service.
Travelers are advised to carefully consider the timing, confirm their booking, and exercise caution, especially for first-time kayakers.
Read our full review: Clear Kayak Adventure in Fort Walton Beach Review
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Clear Kayak Glow Tour Destin Ft. Walton Beach
Exploring the local waterways in Destin and Fort Walton Beach takes on a magical glow during the Clear Kayak Glow Tour. For $72.95 per person, adventurers can embark on a unique experience in a clear tandem kayak, with a maximum group size of 10.
The tour includes essential equipment like paddles and life jackets, and guests are advised to bring their reusable water bottles. While the meeting point is currently under construction, the launch site offers convenient parking.
Although not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, the tour promises sightings of local wildlife and a peaceful atmosphere, based on positive customer reviews.
Some guests have reported minor issues, but the company aims to resolve any concerns.
Read our full review: Clear Kayak Glow Tour Destin Ft. Walton Beach Review
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Kayak Adventure in Destin and Fort Walton Beach
Embarking on a Kayak Adventure in Destin and Fort Walton Beach allows visitors to enjoy the region’s serene waterways.
Offered as single or tandem options, the excursion provides all necessary equipment, including paddles, life jackets, and waterproof storage.
With a price starting from $35 per group, the activity caters to a maximum of two people per kayak, including children.
The meeting point is at Destiny Water Adventures, with free parking and check-in located behind the Quality Inn and Suites.
The tour ends back at the starting point, offering a convenient round-trip experience.
Boasting an impressive 5.0-star rating, this kayak adventure promises an unforgettable connection with Destin and Fort Walton Beach’s natural beauty.
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Glow Kayaking Panama City, FL
Glowing kayaks illuminate the waters of Panama City, Florida, providing a captivating nighttime experience for adventurous paddlers.
Located on the Emerald Coast, the Glow Kayaking tour offers a 3.8-rated activity with a maximum of 14 participants. Paddlers will receive a crystal clear, illuminated kayak that seats two, along with a life jacket and paddles.
The experience starts and ends at the meeting point of 111 W Beach Dr, where the big pink Glow Paddle truck is located.
While the overall experience is rated 3 out of 5, customers praise the team’s helpfulness and the quality of the kayaks. However, some have reported a lack of sea life sightings during the tour.
Read our full review: Glow Kayaking Panama City, FL Review
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Recap
The Destin and Fort Walton Beach area offers a variety of exhilarating water activities for adventurous visitors. From clear kayaking eco-tours to tandem kayak rentals and glow kayaking experiences, there’s something to suit every preference. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil sunset paddle or an immersive exploration of the region’s natural beauty, these top-rated water excursions provide unforgettable memories and a chance to connect with the local environment.