Southwest Florida’s Naples region delivers three standout paddling experiences worth your time and money.
The well-organized Big Hickory Island operation impresses with top-notch equipment and peaceful mangrove passages – perfect for spotting herons and osprey along the shoreline.
I’m particularly fond of the daily two-hour guided mangrove tour in Naples proper; the naturalist guides really know their stuff and the bird-watching opportunities are exceptional.
For something special, try the clear-bottom kayak tours in Bonita Springs, where you’ll often spot dolphins and manatees swimming right beneath your boat.
Each tour accommodates both beginners and experienced paddlers, with convenient launch points and thorough safety briefings.
Let’s explore our favorite kayaking tours in detail…
Key Points
- Explore mangrove-lined waterways and the Gulf of Mexico with 5-star rated kayak and SUP rentals on Big Hickory Island.
- Experience a guided 2-hour Naples FL Kayak Mangrove Forest Tour with observations of diverse bird life and lush vegetation.
- Set out on a captivating CLEAR Kayak Sunset & Light Tour in Bonita Springs/Ft Myers Beach to encounter marine life like dolphins and manatees.
- Enjoy a relaxing experience with wildlife sightings and shell collecting while taking advantage of free cancellation and “reserve now, pay later” options.
- Suitable for moderate fitness levels, including children aged 3 and up, with essential gear provided and safety rules enforced.
Kayak and SUP Rentals – Big Hickory Island – Fort Myers Beach, FL
One of the top kayak and stand-up paddleboard (SUP) rental experiences in the Fort Myers Beach area is located on Big Hickory Island. This 5-star rated activity offers visitors an opportunity to explore the serene mangrove-lined waterways and reach the Gulf of Mexico.
The meeting point is easily accessible via map apps, and the rental company provides essential gear like personal flotation devices and dry bags.
The experience is suitable for a moderate fitness level, including children aged 3 and up, but not recommended for those with serious medical conditions. Customers often utilize Uber for transportation to the site.
With a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the event and a “reserve now, pay later” option, this rental is a convenient and enjoyable way to experience the natural beauty of the area.
Previous guests have praised the relaxing and unique experience, highlighting the wildlife sightings and the ability to collect shells on secluded islands.
Read our full review: Kayak and SUP Rentals – Big Hickory Island – Fort Myers Beach, FL Review
Book now: Check availability
Naples FL, Kayak Mangrove Forest Tour
The Naples FL Kayak Mangrove Forest Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the serene backwaters and picturesque coastlines of the region. This 2-hour guided tour departs from the city center at 9:00 AM, with participants meeting at 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd, Naples, FL 34102.
Throughout the tour, travelers will observe diverse bird life and vegetation while paddling through lush mangrove forests. The routes vary based on conditions, ensuring an engaging and dynamic experience.
The tour includes all necessary equipment, such as kayaks, life vests, and safety gear, and kayaking instruction is available for all experience levels. However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and children under 12 must kayak with an adult.
Strict safety rules are in place, prohibiting alcohol and requiring participants to follow the guide’s instructions and remain in their kayaks until it’s safe to exit.
Participants are encouraged to bring a sense of adventure, as well as recommended items like hats, light shirts, water, snacks, and waterproof cameras.
The tour can be canceled due to unacceptable behavior, and it’s essential to respect the wildlife and environment by not touching or disturbing the natural surroundings.
Read our full review: Naples FL, Kayak Mangrove Forest Tour Review
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CLEAR Kayak Sunset & Light Tour – Bonita Springs / Ft Myers Beach
Paddle Naples offers a captivating CLEAR Kayak Sunset & Light Tour in the Bonita Springs and Ft Myers Beach area. Priced from $79 per person, this tour is highly recommended, with a 5.0 rating from 16 reviews.
Travelers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including dolphins, manatees, and flying fish, during the tour.
The tour departs from the meeting point at 948V+MF in Bonita Springs, with easy navigation using the provided coordinates. The experience lasts until the tour returns to the starting point.
Participants will receive complimentary photos airdropped at the end of the tour, which has a maximum of 16 travelers. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour, and a Reserve Now and Pay Later option is available.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, service animals are allowed. Participants should have a moderate level of physical fitness and shouldn’t have any heart problems or serious medical conditions.
Read our full review: CLEAR Kayak Sunset & Light Tour – Bonita Springs / Ft Myers Beach Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Naples and the surrounding areas offer a variety of exciting canoe and kayak experiences. Visitors can explore the mangrove forests, paddle through the calm waters, and witness stunning sunsets. Whether it’s renting a kayak or SUP, taking a guided tour, or embarking on a clear kayak adventure, there are plenty of options to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.