Cocoa Beach: Dolphin & Manatee Kayak or SUP Tour Islands

Summary

Kayak or SUP the Banana River with dolphins, manatees, and wild islands

You’ll paddle through Cocoa Beach’s waterways by kayak or SUP with a local guide, spotting dolphins and manatees up close as you glide past mangroves and pink spoonbills. Step onto hidden islands for stories about old Florida and maybe hold a live conch shell. It’s relaxed but full of real moments you’ll remember long after you rinse off the salt.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to laugh so much paddling around Cocoa Beach — but there’s something about trying to balance on a paddleboard while a manatee pops up right next to you that just gets everyone giggling. Our guide, Chris, started us off with a quick demo (I was definitely listening but still managed to go sideways at first), then we set out along the Banana River. The air smelled briny, like wet leaves and sunscreen, and even though it was warm, there was this breeze that kept things easy. I could hear pelicans slapping the water somewhere behind me.

We drifted past these tangled mangroves where Chris pointed out a roseate spoonbill — honestly, I would’ve missed it if he hadn’t stopped us. The pink feathers looked almost fake against all that green. Then suddenly someone whispered “dolphin!” and sure enough, two fins arched up just ahead. It’s hard to describe how quiet everyone got for a second — just paddles tapping water and those little snorts dolphins make when they breathe. I tried not to move too fast; didn’t want to scare them off.

After about half an hour we landed on one of those tiny islands in the Thousand Islands Conservation Area (I’d never realized how many there were — Chris said over a thousand, which sounds made up but apparently isn’t). He told us some stories about old Cocoa Beach history while we stretched our legs in the sand. The sun felt good on my shoulders. Someone found a live conch shell and passed it around — slimy but kind of cool.

By the end I was salty, tired in that happy way, and still thinking about that moment when the dolphin surfaced right near my board. If you’re wondering whether this day trip in Cocoa Beach is worth it — yeah, I’d do it again just for that feeling of floating quietly with all those wild things around you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayak and paddleboard wildlife tour

• See West Indian Manatees
• Spot dolphins in Banana River
• Pass Thousand Islands Conservation Area
• Observe storks and roseate spoonbills
• Explore Indian River Lagoon islands

Top questions

Can beginners join the Cocoa Beach kayak tour?

Yes, it’s suitable for all fitness levels and includes instruction from your guide.

Will I see both dolphins and manatees?

The area is known for frequent dolphin and manatee sightings, though nature can’t be guaranteed.

Is equipment provided for the tour?

Yes, kayaks or paddleboards plus lifejackets are included for everyone.

How long does the tour last?

You’ll spend about 30 minutes exploring Thousand Islands plus time paddling other waterways.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

Is transportation included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transport options are nearby.

What wildlife might I see besides dolphins?

You might spot manatees, sea turtles, pelicans, roseate spoonbills, storks, and more.

What’s included

Your day includes use of world-class paddleboards or kayaks (one- or two-person), paddles for both SUPs and kayaks, lifejackets for safety, plus guidance from a local expert as you explore Cocoa Beach’s unique waterways together.