Shell Key Clear Kayak Sunset & Glow Tours
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Sunset Tour: Enjoy a picturesque sunset before darkness falls &
Watch the sunset from the beautiful beach on Shell Key. As night falls, your LED lights will illuminate more of the water around you, the stars will come out, and the experience will be transformed into a nighttime kayaking adventure. Fish become quite active at dusk and start jumping out of the water.
Glow Tour: Adventure into the mangroves. Light up the water below your 100% clear kayak as you paddle at night into the hidden mangrove tunnel, where you will experience the ambiance created by the soft color of the LED glow lights on the incredible overhead formation of the mangroves. You’ll hear fish jumping around you, see some sea grass below, and feel the relaxing ocean air while paddling through the preserve.
This tour is for people who are adventurous! Due to the night time nature of the tour, there may be some surprise visits from wildlife.
Available options
Glow Tour - Paddle at night
Stops in the mangrove tunnel: Adventure into the darkness! Light up the water below your 100% clear kayak as you paddle at night into the mangrove tunnel.
Sunset Tour
Stops at the beach : Enjoy a picturesque sunset from the beautiful beach on Shell Key before darkness falls, then paddle at dusk.
What's included
Paddles and Seats
Lifejackets with whistles
Clear Kayaks with LED lights
Dry Bags to store your phone or keys
Detailed itinerary
1
Kayak at night on a glow tour and illuminate the water below! Enjoy a unique nighttime tour while your color-changing, waterproof LED lights illuminate the waters below your clear kayak.
Explore the waters of Shell Key Preserve while looking for wildlife, taking in the stars, and lighting up the water beneath you. Depending on the departure time, you may witness an incredible sunset. As dusk falls, you’ll turn on your lights to illuminate the water below. Your tour guide will lead the way on a true adventure through the waters and around the mangrove islands of Shell Key Preserve. Along the way, be on the lookout for crustaceans, fish, sharks, birds, and more with the LED lights igniting the water as you paddle.
This tour is for people who are adventurous! Due to the night time nature of the tour, there may be some surprise visits from wildlife. Plan on wearing long sleeves and/or long pants, with bug spray underneath your clothing to deter mosquitos.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
15 reviews
5★
13
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
496 reviews
5★
487
4★
5
3★
2
2★
1
1★
1
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
For our nighttime glow tours, we only allow teens ages 12 and older.
We require one adult per each child under age 18.
Must have upper body mobility and ability to climb stairs to get in and out of kayaks
The weight limit is 250 pounds per person AND no more than 425 pounds combined per tandem kayak.
Meeting point
We launch from Billy's Stone Crab Restaurant. Please park towards the back of Billy's parking lot and walk towards the restaurant entrance. Follow the restaurant entrance wooden ramp to the docks behind the restaurant, where you will meet your tour guide!
About St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg, Florida, is a vibrant city known for its sunny weather, beautiful waterfront, and rich cultural scene. With over 361 days of sunshine per year, it's a perfect destination for outdoor activities, arts, and relaxation.
Top Attractions
The Dalí Museum
The Dalí Museum houses the largest collection of Salvador Dalí's works outside of Europe. It's a must-visit for art lovers and those interested in surrealism.
Museum
2-3 hours
$25
St. Petersburg Pier
The St. Petersburg Pier offers stunning views of Tampa Bay, dining options, and recreational activities. It's a great spot for a leisurely stroll or a family outing.
Waterfront/Entertainment
1-2 hours
Free (attractions may have separate fees)
Fort De Soto Park
Fort De Soto Park is a beautiful beach park with historical significance. It offers pristine beaches, nature trails, and a historic fort to explore.
Nature/Beach
Half day
Free (parking fees apply)
Savage Gardens
Savage Gardens is a unique botanical garden featuring carnivorous plants, tropical plants, and a beautiful butterfly exhibit.
Nature/Botanical Garden
1-2 hours
$10
Sunken Gardens
Sunken Gardens is a historic botanical garden with a diverse collection of plants, including tropical and exotic species. It's a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
Nature/Botanical Garden
1-2 hours
$10
Must-Try Local Dishes
Grouper Sandwich
A delicious sandwich featuring fresh grouper, often served with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce on a toasted bun.
Lunch
Contains fish and gluten (unless served on a gluten-free bun)
Key Lime Pie
A classic Florida dessert made with key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and a graham cracker crust.
Dessert
Contains dairy and gluten (unless served in a gluten-free crust)
Stone Crab
A Florida delicacy featuring sweet and tender stone crab meat, often served with mustard sauce.
Dinner
Contains shellfish and gluten (in the mustard sauce)
Popular Activities
Kayaking
Paddleboarding
Biking
Hiking
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Yoga
Meditation
Best Time to Visit
November to April
This is the most popular time to visit St. Petersburg due to the pleasant weather and various festivals and events. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions.
15-27°C
60-80°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Eastern Standard Time (EST) (GMT-5) / Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) (GMT-4) during daylight saving time
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
St. Petersburg is generally a safe city for visitors, with a low crime rate. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis or rideshare services
Getting there
By air
- St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport • 15 miles (24 km)
- Tampa International Airport • 20 miles (32 km)
By bus
Greyhound Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is affordable and convenient, with numerous routes connecting major attractions and neighborhoods.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown St. Petersburg
Tropicana Field
Grand Central District
Historic Kenwood
Day trips
Clearwater Beach
20 miles (32 km) • Half day to full day
Clearwater Beach is a beautiful beach destination with white sand, clear water, and a variety of water sports and activities.
Tarpon Springs
30 miles (48 km) • Full day
Tarpon Springs is a charming Greek town with a rich history and a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
25 miles (40 km) • Full day
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is a popular theme park with thrilling rides, animal encounters, and live entertainment.
Festivals
St. Petersburg Pride • June
Tampa Bay Margarita Festival • October
St. Pete Food Truck Festival • March
Pro tips
- Visit the St. Petersburg Pier for stunning views of Tampa Bay and the city skyline
- Explore the city's vibrant arts and culture scene by visiting museums, galleries, and theaters
- Enjoy the city's beautiful waterfront by taking a sunset sail or renting a kayak or paddleboard
- Sample the city's diverse culinary scene by trying local specialties, such as grouper sandwiches and key lime pie
- Take a day trip to nearby Clearwater Beach or Tarpon Springs for a change of pace and additional attractions
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
