Florida’s Sarasota area stands out for its diverse paddling opportunities, with mangrove-lined waterways and crystal-clear coastal zones perfect for kayaking and canoeing.
The standout experiences include guided tours of Upper Manatee River, where quiet waters make ideal conditions for beginners and naturalists alike. I especially love the nighttime LED glass-bottom kayak tours at Siesta Key – they offer a unique perspective of marine life you won’t find elsewhere in Florida.
The mangrove tunnel tours, particularly in Bradenton and through local sandbars, provide intimate encounters with Florida’s coastal ecosystem.
Wildlife spotting around Osprey is reliably good, with regular sightings of manatees and dolphins.
Let’s explore the top kayak and canoe tours worth your time in Sarasota:
Key Points
- The Glass Bottom Kayak Mangrove Tunnel & Sandbar Adventure in Sarasota offers a scenic exploration of mangrove tunnels and sandbars with glass-bottom kayaks.
- The Guided Pedal Kayak Tour in Bradenton provides a serene mangrove tunnel experience led by an ACA-certified guide, with a 5/5 rating based on reviews.
- The Guided Dolphin and Manatee SUP or Kayaking Tour in Osprey offers the opportunity to spot wildlife like manatees, dolphins, and sea turtles during a 2-hour tour.
- The Clear Kayak LED Night Glass Bottom Tour in Siesta Key provides a unique nighttime adventure with clear kayaks and LED lights for underwater viewing.
- The Guided Stand-Up Paddle Board Tour on the Upper Manatee River in Rye Preserve offers a personalized experience for first-time paddleboarders, with a 5.0 rating based on a single review.
2 Hour Guided Stand up Paddle Board Tour Along Upper Manatee River
The 2-hour guided stand-up paddle board tour along the Upper Manatee River offers an immersive experience for adventurous travelers. Priced at $65 per person, the tour takes participants to the Rye Preserve kayak/canoe launch, where they’ll meet their guide, Justin, at 9:30 AM.
The tour is limited to a maximum of 6 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. Participants will receive a stand-up paddle board, leash, and paddle, as well as bottled water.
Justin, known for his patience and confidence, is praised for helping first-time paddleboarders feel comfortable and secure. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate.
Booking confirmation is provided, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Travelers can also opt for the reserve now, pay later option.
With an impressive 5.0 rating based on a single review, this stand-up paddle board tour promises an unforgettable adventure along the Upper Manatee River.
Read our full review: 2 Hour Guided Stand up Paddle Board Tour Along Upper Manatee River Review
Book now: Check availability
Clear Kayak LED Night Glass Bottom Tour – Siesta Key, FL
Offering a unique nighttime adventure, the Clear Kayak LED Night Glass Bottom Tour in Siesta Key, FL, invites adventurers to explore the area’s scenic waterways.
Operated by Fun Florida Tours, the 65-dollar per person experience provides clear kayaks, life vests, and paddles, allowing guests to witness the underwater world illuminated by LED lights.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it welcomes service animals and is conveniently located near public transportation.
Guests can expect a private tour with their group, and tour times may change due to weather.
With an impressive 4.5-star rating from 79 reviews, the tour receives praise for its knowledgeable guides, family-friendly atmosphere, and opportunities to see diverse marine life.
However, some guests have reported mixed experiences with visibility and cancellations due to weather.
The Clear Kayak LED Night Glass Bottom Tour remains a popular choice for those seeking a memorable and unique kayaking adventure in Siesta Key.
Read our full review: Clear Kayak LED Night Glass Bottom Tour – Siesta Key, FL Review
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Glass Bottom Kayak Mangrove Tunnel & Sandbar Adventure Sarasota
Adventurers can embark on a captivating Glass Bottom Kayak Mangrove Tunnel & Sandbar Adventure in Sarasota, operated by Sharkeys Glass Bottom Tours. Priced from $62.00 per person, this experience invites participants to explore the scenic mangrove tunnels and a nearby sandbar in glass-bottom kayaks.
The tour includes double or single-seated kayaks, beach chairs, snorkeling equipment, and bottled water. The meeting point is the Ken Thompson Boat Ramp, with parking available in the grass lot nearby. The activity lasts approximately the duration of the tour, ending back at the starting point.
Confirmation is provided at booking, and most travelers can participate, though infants must sit on laps and those with serious medical conditions may be excluded. Reservations are recommended, as the tour is likely to sell out, and a lowest price guarantee is offered.
Flexibility is provided, as customers can reserve now and pay later.
Read our full review: Glass Bottom Kayak Mangrove Tunnel & Sandbar Adventure Sarasota Review
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Bradenton: Guided Pedal Kayak Tour
Embarking on a guided pedal kayak tour, adventurers can explore the serene mangrove tunnels near Anna Maria or Bradenton, Florida.
The 2-3 hour activity, led by an ACA-certified local guide, offers opportunities to see dolphins, manatees, and other marine life. The tour is limited to 7 participants, ensuring an intimate experience as the group navigates the waterways.
Priced from €948.67 per person, the tour includes pedal kayaks, kayaking gear, personal flotation devices, and emergency whistles. Guests can also enjoy snorkeling in shallow areas, weather permitting.
The tour starts and ends at AMI Paddleboard & Kayak Adventures, with no upfront payment required to reserve the experience. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.
Adventurers are encouraged to bring sunscreen, water, and water shoes.
With an overall 5/5 rating based on 2 reviews, the guided pedal kayak tour promises an immersive and wildlife-rich exploration of Florida’s coastal ecosystems.
Read our full review: Bradenton: Guided Pedal Kayak Tour Review
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Osprey: Guided Dolphin and Manatee SUP or Kayaking Tour
Visitors to Osprey can join a guided dolphin and manatee SUP or kayaking tour that lasts for 2 hours and is priced from $65.00 per person.
The tour explores Florida’s waterways and allows participants to see wildlife like manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, pelicans, and pink spoonbills. Guides provide an introduction to standup paddleboarding with practice on land before entering the water.
The tour includes all necessary equipment, such as paddleboards or kayaks, paddles, and life vests, as well as a guided experience with a live tour guide.
Participants are advised to bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and water. The tour is likely to sell out, and customers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
While the overall rating of the tour is 3.7/5, some customers have expressed dissatisfaction with the transportation and value for money.
Read our full review: Osprey: Guided Dolphin and Manatee SUP or Kayaking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Sarasota offers a variety of unique and exciting water-based experiences for both novice and experienced paddlers. From guided stand-up paddle board tours to glass-bottom kayak adventures, there’s something to suit every interest and skill level. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil glide through mangrove tunnels or an up-close encounter with local wildlife, Sarasota’s waterways provide an unparalleled opportunity to explore the region’s natural beauty.