Kayaking with coastal wildlife in Sarasota Bay
Overview
We are the only paddling outfitter with kayak access to this spectacular area in the clear waters between Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key, which means no crowds and more exclusive wildlife viewing opportunities!
Wildlife-viewing here is outstanding! Our expert naturalist guides set the gold standard for hospitality in our beautiful corner of the world and are always very respectful of any wildlife encountered on the tour.
While larger groups can easily be accommodated upon request, we always limit our tours to small groups and we are rewarded with a very relaxed and happy group of paddlers. This excursion is perfect for families, couples, groups, and individuals with any level of paddling experience. First-time paddlers are always welcome.
If you are looking for an incredibly relaxed and memorable adventure during your visit to Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key, this is it!
What's Included
- Dry bag to store your phone and personal items
- Coast Guard approved (and comfortable!) life vest
- High-quality, comfortable kayak & paddle
- Bottled water please bring your reusable water bottle!
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
Meeting Location
522 Cedar Street
Longboat Key, FL 34228, USA
Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What To Expect
Manatees, dolphins, birds, and a huge variety of marine life are the highlights of the Coastal Island Kayak Tour!
After making sure our group is very comfortable and ready for our relaxed adventure, we begin our tour in the very calm waters of Bishop's Bayou, directly behind our kayak shop at the meetup location. As we paddle through The Historic Longbeach Village, we will glide by beautiful homes and keep our eyes open for the birds and marine life. We'll make our way into Sarasota Bay and the spectacular, clear waters between Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key. This special area is a major wildlife gathering spot where manatees, dolphins, and other marine animals make regular movements between the Gulf of Mexico and Sarasota Bay. We often stop at one of several beautiful spots to get out and stretch our legs. After we soak up enough "life on the coast", we'll head back to our starting location, where you can rinse, refresh, and marvel at the awesome adventure you just had!
Epic wildlife-viewing opportunities, pristine white-sand beaches, tranquil sandbars, and endless opportunities for lifelong memories await you on this award-winning tour. Come see for yourself :)
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travelers
- Operated by a business
Frequently Asked Questions
(12)Q: Are there any weight restrictions for kayaking?
Cancellation Policy
Still have questions?
We're here to help.
Activity code: C-5505054P1
Traveler Photos
Reviews
Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 30 traveler reviews collected by Cool Destinations and partner sites such as Trustpilot, Viator, and TripAdvisor
Additional Info
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Frequently Asked Questions (12)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool Destinations customers.
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The maximum weight capacity for kayaking is 340 lbs / 154 kg.
Nov 2021No experience is necessary! Beginners are welcome on all of our kayak tours. Most of our guests have never been in a sea kayak before. Anyone in average physical condition may join a kayak tour. If you can hike or bike, you can paddle our sea kayaks. You do not need any swimming skills either.
The only prerequisite is a healthy spirit of curiosity and adventure.
Regardless of age or skill level you will find that our expeditions offer enough flexibility to make your experience with us safe and rewarding. We will show you proper sea kayaking technique and water safety before leaving the beach. And your expert guides will be with you throughout the adventure to give you pointers and improve your skills.
Sep 2022As an active member of the Dolphin SMART program, we do not have physical contact with the dolphins on Kayaking with coastal wildlife in Sarasota Bay. We watch them in their natural habitat from the boat.
Dec 2022Your safety is Cool Destinations’s number one concern. In general, sea kayaking is safer than most other outdoor pursuits, even bicycling.
Jan 2023If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy.
Feb 2023- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
- Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (EDT).
- This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- Dry bag to store your phone and personal items.
- Coast Guard approved (and comfortable!) life vest.
- High-quality, comfortable kayak & paddle.
- Bottled water. please bring your reusable water bottle!.
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses).
This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Apr 2025The minimum age to participate is 5. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..
Apr 2025If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.
If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.
Apr 2025Accessibility information for the Kayaking with coastal wildlife in Sarasota Bay is as follows:
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Kayaking with coastal wildlife in Sarasota Bay will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Destinations. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!
Mar 2024What's Included
- Dry bag to store your phone and personal items
- Coast Guard approved (and comfortable!) life vest
- High-quality, comfortable kayak & paddle
- Bottled waterplease bring your reusable water bottle!
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travelers
- Operated by a business
