Mangroves, Manatees, and a Hidden Beach: Kayak Tour
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
We've been guiding tours from Turtle Beach for 13 years—longer than anyone else in the area.
While most tourists crowd the main Siesta Key beach, we launch from quiet Turtle Beach, just a short trolley ride from downtown Sarasota.
Our route takes you through protected mangrove tunnels, past bird rookeries, and around mangrove islands where dolphins and manatees feed daily. We know exactly where to find wildlife and which routes are safest.
The highlight? Last year's hurricanes naturally reopened Midnight Pass, creating some of the clearest water on Florida's Gulf Coast. We stop at either a boat-access-only beach or a stunning sandbar—both with water so clear you'll think you're in the Bahamas.
What sets us apart: We're Hawaii watermen who brought deep safety expertise to Florida. We're the only outfitter offering kids' programs and maintain a 5-star TripAdvisor rating. Our guides know these waters and create experiences you'll remember.
Available options
Kayak
Kayak : Select this option if you want to use a single kayak on the tour. Kayaks can be combined with paddleboards on a tour.
Stand Up Paddleboard
Chose this option if you want to use a Stand Up Paddleboard on the tour. Kayaks and Paddleboards can be combined in a tour.
Tandem Kayak
Tandem (Double Kayak): Chose this option if you want to paddle in a double kayak. Kayaks and Stand Up Paddleboards can be combined in a tour.
What's included
Paddles
Safety Equipment (Life Jackets, Leashes)
Government Fees
Single kayaks, tandem kayaks
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
277 reviews
5★
247
4★
22
3★
5
2★
1
1★
2
Tripadvisor
4.9
621 reviews
5★
593
4★
18
3★
3
2★
2
1★
5
Important 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
Meeting point
Once you enter Turtle Beach park, go straight until the stop sign. Turn left. The public boat launch will be on your left. Find parking anywhere inside Turtle Beach Park.
Important notes
When you arrive, check in with SURFIT USA. If you have any questions, please text 941-952-8245.
About Sarasota
Sarasota, known as The Cultural Coast, is a vibrant city on Florida's Gulf Coast. It offers a unique blend of beautiful beaches, world-class performing arts, and a rich history, making it a diverse and appealing destination for all types of travelers.
Top Attractions
Siesta Key Beach
Siesta Key Beach is consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in the United States. It offers powdery white sand, clear turquoise waters, and a variety of amenities.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
The Ringling Museum
The Ringling Museum is a comprehensive art and history museum complex featuring the works of John and Mable Ringling, the circus magnate and his wife. The museum includes a circus museum, an art museum, a historic house, and beautiful gardens.
Museum
2-3 hours
$25 for adults, discounts for seniors and children
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is a 15-acre botanical garden and research facility specializing in epiphytic plants, particularly orchids and bromeliads. The gardens feature a variety of themed areas, including a rose garden, a palm garden, and a children's garden.
Nature
1-2 hours
$20 for adults, discounts for seniors and children
Sarasota Jungle Gardens
Sarasota Jungle Gardens is a 20-acre botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary featuring a variety of exotic plants, birds, and animals. The gardens offer a unique opportunity to see wildlife up close, including flamingos, lemurs, and alligators.
Nature
1-2 hours
$20 for adults, discounts for seniors and children
Sarasota Opera House
The Sarasota Opera House is a historic theater and the home of the Sarasota Opera. The theater hosts a variety of performances, including opera, concerts, and special events. The building itself is a beautiful example of Art Deco architecture.
Cultural
2-3 hours for a performance
Varies by performance, typically $25-$150
Must-Try Local Dishes
Grouper Sandwich
A local favorite featuring fresh grouper, a type of fish commonly found in the Gulf of Mexico, served on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce.
Lunch
Gluten-free options available
Key Lime Pie
A classic Florida dessert made with key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and a graham cracker crust.
Dessert
Vegan and gluten-free options available
Stone Crab
A Florida specialty featuring stone crab claws, typically served chilled with mustard sauce.
Dinner
Gluten-free options available
Citrus Salad
A refreshing salad made with a variety of Florida citrus fruits, such as oranges, grapefruits, and tangerines, often served with a honey-lime dressing.
Appetizer
Vegan and gluten-free
Popular Activities
Kayaking
Paddleboarding
Snorkeling
Scuba Diving
Beachcombing
Sunbathing
Spa treatments
Yoga
Best Time to Visit
November to April
This is the most popular time to visit Sarasota due to the pleasant weather and numerous outdoor activities. It's also the peak season for cultural events and festivals.
15-27°C
60-80°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Eastern Time Zone (UTC-5)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Sarasota is generally a safe destination for travelers, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious when using ATMs
- • Avoid walking alone at night in less touristy areas
Getting there
By air
- Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport • 5 miles (8 km)
By bus
Sarasota Greyhound Station
Getting around
Public transport
SCAT offers affordable and reliable bus service with multiple routes and schedules. The system is easy to use with clear signage and helpful drivers.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Sarasota
Siesta Key
Southside Village
The Rosemary District
Day trips
Myakka River State Park
25 miles (40 km) • Full day
Myakka River State Park is a large and diverse state park offering a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing. The park is home to a variety of animals, including alligators, birds, and deer.
Venice
20 miles (32 km) • Half day to full day
Venice is a charming coastal city known for its historic downtown, beautiful beaches, and world-class fishing. The city offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions, as well as a variety of outdoor activities.
Lake Okeechobee
100 miles (160 km) • Full day to overnight
Lake Okeechobee is the largest freshwater lake in Florida and offers a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, as well as birds and other wildlife.
Festivals
Sarasota Film Festival • April
Sarasota Jazz Festival • October
Sarasota Chalk Festival • November
Pro tips
- Visit Siesta Key Beach early in the morning for the best parking and fewer crowds
- Explore the historic downtown area on foot to discover local shops, cafes, and galleries
- Check the schedule for the Sarasota Farmers Market and other local events and festivals
- Rent a bike or scooter to explore the city and surrounding areas
- Try local specialties like stone crab, grouper, and key lime pie
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
