Mangrove Tunnel & Manatee Kayak Eco-Tour

Duration2h

Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before

Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away

TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted

LanguagesEnglish

Group sizeUp to 38 travelers

Overview

Paddle into one of Lido Key’s most unique eco-adventures: the mangrove tunnels. This guided kayak tour takes you through calm, winding waterways where mangrove branches create shaded “tunnels” overhead—quiet, beautiful, and full of life. Along the way, our friendly local guides share fun, easy-to-understand info about the mangrove ecosystem and help you spot wildlife like coastal birds, fish, rays, and—when they’re around—manatees and dolphins.
Booking is simple: reserve by the number of guests in your group, and the type of watercraft you prefer (single kayaks, tandem kayaks or stand up paddleboards). Our goal is to keep everyone comfortable and having a great time on the water.

What sets us apart: We're Hawaii transplants who brought our love for the ocean to Sarasota. We're the only outfitter offering kids' programs and maintain a 5-star TripAdvisor rating. Note: Guides may make changes to routes and equipment based on conditions and safety.

Options

Tandem-Must Select Two People

Tandem Kayak: This option can only be selected if you have two or more people for the booking.

Single Kayak

Single Kayak : Choose this option if you want a single kayak. Kayaks and paddleboards can be combined.

Stand Up Paddleboard

Stand Up Paddleboard: Choose this option if you want to use a stand up paddleboard. Kayaks and paddleboards can be combined on tours.

What's included

Paddles
Safety Equipment (Life Jackets, Leashes)
Government Fees
Single or tandem kayaks or stand up paddleboards (chosen at time of booking)

(optional, but appreciated--cash or Venmo accepted at the end of the tour.
Please bring your own water. We do not provide it.

What to expect

Paddle through the unique mangrove tunnel network around Lido Key in Sarasota Bay — a natural maze of winding waterways shaded by mangrove forests and rich in wildlife. Our guides lead you on an engaging and safe 2-hour experience that’s perfect for families, beginners, and nature lovers alike. Along the way, you’ll see shorebirds, fish, crabs, and in many seasons you may spot manatees or dolphins in the bay.

This is a great tour for kids. However, we do not offer a youth rate. Children under 5 can ride along with two adults in a tandem kayak. We do not charge for the ride-along child. Kids under 10 should be in a tandem kayak with an adult.

Sarasota

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

ARRIVE 15 MINUTES BEFORE YOUR BOOKING TIME. The time on your booking is your launch time — when we push off from the beach. Check-in, gear fitting, and your safety briefing all happen before that.

We are the company parked directly across from the bathroom building. Check in with SURFIT.

End point

ARRIVE 15 MINUTES BEFORE YOUR BOOKING TIME. The time on your booking is your launch time — when we push off from the beach. Check-in, gear fitting, and your safety briefing all happen before that.

We are the company parked directly across from the bathroom building. Check in with SURFIT.

Additional information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
ARRIVE 15 MINUTES BEFORE YOUR BOOKING TIME. The time on your booking is your launch time — when we push off from the beach. Check-in, gear fitting, and your safety briefing all happen before that. If you arrive at your booking time, the tour is already starting.
Bring water. We do not provide water or snacks. Florida heat is no joke — bring at least 16 oz per person, more in summer.
Wear clothes and shoes you are comfortable getting wet. Water shoes or flip flops work.
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses with a strap.
We provide a small dry bag for your phone and keys. All other items (towels, change of clothes) should be left in your car.
Parking is available. However, give yourself extra time during weekends or holiday time periods (i.e. spring break).

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

4.9 (1,152)