Naples, Florida stands out for practical, water-based exploring by canoe and kayak. The surrounding waters offer intimate access to Florida’s natural beauty without the tourist crowds.
The guided mangrove tours on Marco Island are worth every penny – skilled naturalists help spot wildlife like dolphins and manatees while sharing local ecological insights.
I especially love the 2-hour Mangrove Maze tour through Rookery Bay Reserve for its perfect mix of adventure and education. The small-group paddleboard and kayak excursions deserve special mention, consistently delivering close encounters with sea turtles and bald eagles.
Let’s explore our favorite guided water tours in Naples.
Key Points
-
The Marco Island Mangroves Kayak or Paddle Tour offers a 2-hour small-group excursion with wildlife spotting opportunities and a choice between kayak or paddleboard.
-
The Marco Island Kayak Mangrove Ecotour is a 2-hour tour led by biologist and naturalist guides, with the opportunity to see over 150 bird species, manatees, and dolphins.
-
The Mangrove Maze Kayak Tour provides a 2-hour tour through the Rookery Bay Reserve, with a limited group size of 8 for a personalized experience.
-
The Guided Standup Paddleboard or Kayak Tour is a 2-hour experience in Marco Island and Naples, starting from $65 per person, with opportunities to spot manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, and bald eagles.
-
The Marco Island and Naples area offers a variety of highly-rated, guided canoe and kayak experiences, with options for small group sizes, knowledgeable guides, and diverse wildlife viewing opportunities.
From Naples, FL: Marco Island Mangroves Kayak or Paddle Tour
From the coastal city of Naples, Florida, visitors can embark on a captivating two-hour Marco Island Mangroves Kayak or Paddle Tour. This small-group excursion explores the diverse mangrove tunnels and coastal habitat of the region, with the opportunity to spot dolphins, manatees, and seabirds.
Guests can choose between a kayak or paddleboard and will be guided by knowledgeable tour leaders who share insights into the local ecosystem and wildlife. The tour departs from and returns to Capri Paddlecraft Park, where participants receive a brief safety briefing before setting off.
Along the way, they’ll have the chance to stop for photographs and explore hidden coves. The experience is designed to be relaxed and safe, with no alligators present. While a moderate fitness level is required, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back or heart problems, or wheelchair users.
Cancellations due to poor weather are possible, but options for rescheduling or a full refund are available. With overwhelmingly positive reviews, this tour offers a unique and immersive way to experience the natural beauty of Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Read our full review: From Naples, FL: Marco Island Mangroves Kayak or Paddle Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Marco Island: Kayak Mangrove Ecotour in Rookery Bay Reserve
Kayakers seeking a truly immersive experience in Florida’s pristine Rookery Bay Reserve can embark on the Marco Island Kayak Mangrove Ecotour.
Priced at $85 per person, this 2-hour small-group tour is led by biologist and naturalist guides, allowing participants to explore the area’s most unspoiled mangrove forests.
Paddling through a maze of mangroves, oyster reefs, and hidden bays, guests have the chance to spot over 150 bird species, manatees, dolphins, and smaller creatures like mangrove tree crabs.
The tour also includes the opportunity to find shells, sea stars, and urchins.
With a maximum of 10 participants, the experience offers exceptional value at 4.6/5 based on customer reviews.
All necessary gear, including well-maintained kayaks, life vests, and dry bags, is provided, along with a safety briefing and entry fees for the reserve.
Whether traveling solo, with friends, or as a couple, this eco-tour promises an immersive and memorable adventure in Florida’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Marco Island: Kayak Mangrove Ecotour in Rookery Bay Reserve Review
Book now: Check availability
Marco Island: Mangrove Maze Kayak Tour (2hrs)
Adventurers can explore the serene mangrove tunnels of Marco Island’s Rookery Bay Reserve on the Mangrove Maze Kayak Tour. This 2-hour activity takes guests through a maze of lush mangroves, offering opportunities to observe diverse wildlife like ospreys, pelicans, mullet fish, and even dolphins.
The tour is limited to 8 participants, providing a personalized experience led by a knowledgeable guide. Participants can choose between single or double kayaks, all equipped with thin back jackets for comfort.
The tour includes snacks, water, and dry bags for personal items, though guests should bring a change of clothes, sunscreen, and water shoes. Parking is available for a fee.
While the tour isn’t suitable for those with certain health conditions, it’s an ideal way for visitors to experience the Everglades’ unique mangrove ecosystem without the risk of alligators.
With an overall rating of 4.8/5 from previous guests, the Mangrove Maze Kayak Tour is a must-try for those seeking a peaceful and informative adventure in Naples, Florida.
Read our full review: Marco Island: Mangrove Maze Kayak Tour (2hrs) Review
Book now: Check availability
Naples, FL: Guided Standup Paddleboard or Kayak Tour
Visitors to Naples, Florida can choose between a guided standup paddleboard (SUP) or kayak tour to explore the area’s stunning natural scenery and abundant wildlife.
The 2-hour experience takes place in Marco Island and Naples, with prices starting from $65 per person. During the tour, participants may spot a variety of wildlife, including West Indian manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, bald eagles, pelicans, and osprey. Scenic views of the beautiful offshore environment are also a highlight.
The tour includes all necessary equipment, such as paddleboards or kayaks, paddles, and life vests, as well as live guidance from a knowledgeable tour guide throughout the experience.
While the overall rating is 3.8 out of 5 based on 10 reviews, some travelers have reported safety concerns related to boat traffic and guide behavior.
Reservations can be made easily with no upfront payment required, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Naples, FL: Guided Standup Paddleboard or Kayak Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Naples, Florida offers an array of fantastic canoe and kayak experiences. Paddlers can explore the serene mangrove estuaries of Marco Island, navigating through lush, winding waterways teeming with diverse wildlife. For a unique perspective, visitors can opt for a guided standup paddleboard or kayak tour along the picturesque coastline. With a range of tour options, there’s something to suit every level of adventurer in this outdoor-lover’s paradise.