Paddling through St. Augustine’s waterways offers an intimate look at Florida’s coastal ecosystem.
Two standout tours focus on the calm Intracoastal Waterway: the practical Deluxe Dolphin-Watching Kayak Tour (2 hours) and the wonderfully remote Old Florida Backwater Kayak Tour (2 hours) through untouched wetlands.
I’m particularly impressed with the sunrise kayak option – it’s a peaceful 1.5-hour journey when wildlife is most active.
For families and nature enthusiasts, the Dolphin and Manatee tours consistently deliver memorable encounters.
Whether by kayak or paddleboard, these 2-hour excursions provide stable vessels and knowledgeable guides.
Let’s look at the top water adventures in St. Augustine:
Key Points
-
The Deluxe Dolphin-Watching Kayak Tour offers a 2-hour excursion with high ratings and opportunities to see dolphins, birds, and manatees along the Intracoastal Waterway.
-
The Old Florida Backwater Kayak Adventure provides a small-group 2-hour tour through estuaries and wetlands, with chances to spot manatees, birds, and other aquatic creatures.
-
The Paddle Board Dolphin Adventure is a 1.5-hour tour on stable stand-up paddleboards, allowing participants to see dolphins and enjoy views of the historic St. Augustine skyline.
-
The Dolphin and Manatee Paddle or Kayak Tour is a 2-hour experience focusing on wildlife such as dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and crabs, with a starting point at Lighthouse Park.
-
The Kayaking Sunrise Tour is a 1.5-hour guided adventure through creeks and inlets, offering the opportunity to see dolphins and manatees during a tranquil early morning outing.
St. Augustine: Deluxe Dolphin-Watching Kayak Tour
After a scenic 15-minute drive from downtown St. Augustine, visitors can embark on the St. Augustine: Deluxe Dolphin-Watching Kayak Tour.
This 2-hour excursion offers a unique opportunity to observe dolphins in their natural habitat from the comfort of a kayak. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars from 38 reviews, the tour takes guests along the scenic Intracoastal Waterway, providing stunning views of the Nights of Lights display.
Participants can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including dolphins, birds, and possibly manatees. The tour is priced at $38 per person and is likely to sell out, so early booking is recommended.
With its small group size and expert guides, the St. Augustine: Deluxe Dolphin-Watching Kayak Tour offers a memorable and intimate experience for those seeking to connect with the natural beauty of the area.
Read our full review: St. Augustine: Deluxe Dolphin-Watching Kayak Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Old Florida Backwater Kayak Adventure Near St. Augustine
For a unique and serene experience exploring the Old Florida backwaters, visitors can embark on the Old Florida Backwater Kayak Adventure near St. Augustine.
This 2-hour small group tour takes paddlers through the peaceful estuaries and wetlands, providing a chance to observe the diverse local wildlife.
The tour, which is ranked 4.5 stars from previous guests, costs $39 per person.
Kayakers will glide past mangrove forests, salt marshes, and inlets, keeping an eye out for birds, manatees, and other aquatic creatures in their natural habitat.
The small group size ensures an intimate and personalized experience.
This activity is a great way to escape the bustling streets of St. Augustine and take in the tranquility of Old Florida.
Visitors looking for a relaxing and nature-focused outing will find the Old Florida Backwater Kayak Adventure to be a compelling option during their time in the historic city.
Read our full review: Old Florida Backwater Kayak Adventure Near St. Augustine Review
Book now: Check availability
St. Augustine: Paddle Board Dolphin Adventure
Visitors to St. Augustine can embark on an unforgettable Paddle Board Dolphin Adventure. This 1.5-hour tour allows participants to explore the coastal waters while observing dolphins in their natural habitat.
The small-group experience, limited to 10 people, provides an intimate and personalized encounter. Guests will paddle aboard stable stand-up paddleboards, gliding along the calm waters while keeping an eye out for the friendly pods of dolphins that frequent the area.
The tour guides are knowledgeable about the local marine life and ecology, sharing interesting facts and insights throughout the adventure.
Along With the dolphin sightings, the tour offers stunning views of the historic St. Augustine skyline. Participants can enjoy the serene and picturesque surroundings as they paddle at a leisurely pace.
This activity is suitable for all skill levels, making it an enjoyable experience for both novice and experienced paddlers. With its high rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, the Paddle Board Dolphin Adventure is a must-try activity for visitors to St. Augustine.
Read our full review: St. Augustine: Paddle Board Dolphin Adventure Review
Book now: Check availability
St. Augustine: Dolphin and Manatee Paddle or Kayak Tour
The Dolphin and Manatee Paddle or Kayak Tour offers visitors to St. Augustine an opportunity to explore the historic city’s waterways and witness its diverse marine life.
Priced from $65 per person, the 2-hour tour allows participants to choose between stand-up paddleboard or kayak experiences. Led by knowledgeable guides, the excursion focuses on spotting dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and crabs, while also providing scenic views of the Anastasia State Park sand dunes.
The tour starts at the Lighthouse Park waterfront, with a photo stop, safety briefing, and a quick water lesson to ensure everyone is comfortable with the equipment.
Positive reviews highlight the guides’ engaging and informative approach, with an overall rating of 4.4/5 based on 76 reviews.
The experience is suitable for all skill levels and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, as well as a reserve now, pay later option.
Read our full review: St. Augustine: Dolphin and Manatee Paddle or Kayak Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
St. Augustine: Kayaking Sunrise Tour
Paddlers can start their day with a serene kayaking experience as the sun rises over the historic city of St. Augustine.
The St. Augustine: Kayaking Sunrise Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the waterways surrounding the city in a small group setting. This 1.5-hour tour (4.9 from 51 reviews, From $79.95 per person) provides a guided adventure, allowing participants to witness the stunning natural beauty of the area as the day begins.
The tour takes kayakers through picturesque creeks and inlets, providing the chance to spot local wildlife such as dolphins, manatees, and a variety of birds.
Participants will paddle at a relaxed pace, allowing them to fully enjoy the tranquility of the moment. The tour is suitable for all skill levels, making it an accessible option for both experienced and novice kayakers.
With its combination of breathtaking scenery and the peacefulness of an early morning outing, the St. Augustine: Kayaking Sunrise Tour is a must-try activity for visitors to the area.
Read our full review: St. Augustine: Kayaking Sunrise Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
St. Augustine offers a variety of exceptional canoe and kayak experiences. From dolphin-watching tours to backwater adventures, visitors can explore the area’s unique natural wonders. Whether you prefer a serene sunrise paddle or an up-close encounter with marine life, there are options to suit every interest and skill level. With its picturesque waterways and abundant wildlife, St. Augustine is an ideal destination for water enthusiasts.