Naples’ waterways offer some of the best paddling experiences in Southwest Florida, with well-organized tours that get you close to local wildlife.
The standout options include guided kayak excursions through quiet backwaters where manatees and dolphins frequently surface. I’m particularly fond of the Marco Island mangrove tours – they’re intimate, educational, and perfect for spotting local birds and marine life.
The Rookery Bay Reserve tours earn my recommendation for their expert naturalist guides and pristine environment.
These smaller group experiences allow you to truly appreciate the unspoiled mangrove ecosystem without the crowds.
Let’s explore the top kayak and canoe tours worth your time in Naples.
Key Points
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Guided paddleboard and kayak tours in Naples provide opportunities to spot diverse wildlife like manatees, dolphins, and bald eagles along the Gulf Coast.
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Small-group mangrove maze kayak tours in Marco Island offer intimate experiences with close encounters of ospreys, pelicans, and dolphins.
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Kayak ecotours in Rookery Bay Reserve allow paddlers to navigate through pristine mangrove forests and observe over 150 bird species.
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Marco Island mangroves kayak or paddle tours provide serene experiences exploring mangrove tunnels with chances to witness dolphins and manatees.
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Guided tours in Naples and Marco Island cater to varying fitness levels and offer knowledgeable guides, comfortable equipment, and high customer satisfaction.
Naples, FL: Guided Standup Paddleboard or Kayak Tour
Nestled along the picturesque Gulf coast, Naples, Florida offers visitors a chance to explore the region’s natural wonders through a guided standup paddleboard (SUP) or kayak tour. Priced from $65 per person, the 2-hour experience allows participants to spot a variety of wildlife, including manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, bald eagles, pelicans, and osprey.
Paddlers can watch West Indian manatees in the warm, clear waters and take in the natural scenery around Marco Island and Naples.
The tour includes all necessary equipment, such as paddleboards or kayaks, paddles, and life vests, as well as a knowledgeable guide to lead the way. Participants should bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen.
Although the tour has an overall rating of 3.8/5 based on 10 reviews, some customers have noted potential safety concerns regarding boat traffic and guide interactions.
The tour operator offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
Read our full review: Naples, FL: Guided Standup Paddleboard or Kayak Tour Review
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Marco Island: Mangrove Maze Kayak Tour (2hrs)
Explore the mangrove tunnels of Marco Island and Naples, Florida on a 2-hour Mangrove Maze Kayak Tour. This small-group experience, limited to 8 participants, provides an up-close look at the area’s diverse wildlife, including ospreys, pelicans, mullet fish, and even dolphins.
Comfortable single and tandem kayaks make the journey comfortable, while knowledgeable guides ensure a personalized and informative experience.
The tour costs from $70 per person and includes snacks, water, dry bags for personal items, and a $10 parking ticket plus $5 per boat fee. Participants are encouraged to bring a change of clothes, sunscreen, and water shoes.
While the tour isn’t suitable for those with certain medical conditions, it offers a safe environment, as there are no alligators present.
Reviews of the Mangrove Maze Kayak Tour are overwhelmingly positive, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 5 customer reviews. Guests praise the friendly staff, knowledgeable guides, and the enjoyment of exploring the serene mangrove tunnels.
Read our full review: Marco Island: Mangrove Maze Kayak Tour (2hrs) Review
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Marco Island: Kayak Mangrove Ecotour in Rookery Bay Reserve
Marco Island visitors can embark on the Kayak Mangrove Ecotour in the nearby Rookery Bay Reserve. This 2-hour tour costs $85 per person and explores the most pristine mangrove forest in North America.
Guides, who are biologists and Florida naturalists, lead small groups of up to 10 participants. They’ll point out over 150 species of birds, as well as manatees and dolphins. Paddlers will glide over oyster reefs, mudflats, and hidden bays, searching for shells like horse conches and lightning whelks.
The tour includes kayaking gear, life vests, and dry bags. Customers rave about the fun and informative nature of the experience. With a 4.5/5 rating based on 20 reviews, the Kayak Mangrove Ecotour is a popular option for those seeking an immersive encounter with Florida’s diverse coastal ecosystem.
A reserve now and pay later option is available, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Marco Island: Kayak Mangrove Ecotour in Rookery Bay Reserve Review
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From Naples, FL: Marco Island Mangroves Kayak or Paddle Tour
Visitors to Naples, Florida can embark on a captivating kayak or paddleboard tour to explore the serene mangrove tunnels of Marco Island. This 2-hour tour, priced at $59.99 per person, offers the chance to witness dolphins, manatees, and seabirds in their natural habitat.
The tour is available in English and Spanish, with small group options for an intimate experience. The tour includes a professional guide who provides a briefing on the local ecosystems and wildlife.
Participants should have moderate physical fitness, as the tour involves navigating through intricate tunnels and hidden coves. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back or heart problems, or wheelchair users.
Equipment, including kayaks or paddleboards and life jackets, is provided, and the tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
Based on 51 reviews, the tour has an overall rating of 4.9/5, with highlights including knowledgeable and entertaining guides, and the opportunity to take in the serene mangrove environment.
Read our full review: From Naples, FL: Marco Island Mangroves Kayak or Paddle Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
Naples, Florida offers a variety of exceptional canoe and kayak experiences that allow visitors to explore the area’s stunning natural landscapes. From guided standup paddleboard tours to mangrove maze kayak adventures, there’s something for all to enjoy. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, these excursions provide a unique opportunity to learn about the region’s diverse ecosystems and create lasting memories.