The protected waters around Merritt Island provide excellent opportunities for paddling adventures.
Two standout experiences deserve special attention: First, the manatee watching tours let you get close to these fascinating creatures during a sensible 2-hour guided excursion.
Second, the Banana River Lagoon Nature Preserve tours offer fantastic wildlife viewing, with reliable sightings of spoonbills and dolphins.
We especially love the manatee tours for their expert naturalist guides and the intimate wildlife encounters they provide.
The Banana River tours earn our recommendation for combining easy paddling with excellent bird-watching opportunities in a pristine setting.
Let’s look at our favorite paddle tours in detail…
Key Points
- Guided kayaking and SUP tours along the Banana River Lagoon Nature Preserve offer opportunities to spot diverse wildlife, including manatees, dolphins, and pink spoonbills.
- The Merritt Island Manatee Watching Tour provides a unique chance to observe the West Indian manatee in its natural habitat during a 2-hour guided adventure.
- These nature-focused tours cater to both beginners and experienced paddlers, with tutorials and equipment provided to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
- High guest ratings, knowledgeable guides, and the inclusion of photos to capture memorable moments make these tours ideal for nature enthusiasts seeking an informative and immersive adventure.
- The tours offer flexible scheduling, convenient departure locations, and budget-friendly pricing options, ensuring accessibility and convenience for participants.
Merritt Island: Manatee Watching Paddle or Kayak Tour
Explore the serene waterways of Merritt Island on a guided kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) tour. This 2-hour adventure offers an up-close look at the area’s diverse wildlife, including dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and more. Merritt Island is one of the few places globally where you can spot the elusive West Indian manatee, making this a must-do experience.
The tour departs from a convenient location at C74J+6C9, with prices starting at $65 per person. No upfront payment is required – you can reserve your spot and pay later. Plus, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance if plans change.
As you paddle through the pristine waters, your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating facts about the local flora and fauna, as well as the history of Florida and Cocoa Beach.
Keep your eyes peeled for areas known for excellent wildlife sightings, like dolphins and manatees. With an overall 5/5 rating from past guests, this is an enjoyable and informative experience for nature lovers.
Read our full review: Merritt Island: Manatee Watching Paddle or Kayak Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Merritt Island: Guided Kayak or SUP Tour Along Banana River
Along the serene waterways of Merritt Island’s Banana River Lagoon Nature Preserve, travelers can embark on a guided kayak or standup paddleboard (SUP) tour.
The 2-hour experience allows visitors to spot diverse wildlife like pink spoonbills, manatees, and dolphins while learning about the ecosystem from a knowledgeable guide. Suitable for all levels, the tour includes a paddling tutorial for beginners, ensuring everyone leaves with improved kayaking or paddleboarding skills.
Priced from $84.75 per person, the tour departs from the Brevard Veterans Memorial Center and provides all necessary equipment, including the kayak or SUP, and even photos to capture the memorable outing.
While the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, small children up to 5 years old can ride with their parents for free.
With a 4/5 rating based on verified bookings, this guided adventure offers nature lovers a chance to discover the beauty of the Banana River Lagoon in Merritt Island.
Read our full review: Merritt Island: Guided Kayak or SUP Tour Along Banana River Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
Merritt Island offers two excellent water-based experiences for nature enthusiasts. The Manatee Watching Paddle or Kayak Tour allows you to spot these gentle giants, while the Guided Kayak or SUP Tour along the Banana River provides a serene journey through the tranquil waters. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, these tours promise unforgettable memories amidst the island’s stunning natural beauty.