Dolphin and Manatee Kayak Tour: Sarasota Wildlife & History

Paddle past manatees in the Florida waterways where few places on earth let you see them.

A two-hour kayak and paddleboard tour of Sarasota's cypress waterways where you paddle alongside dolphins, manatees, sea turtles and wading birds while a live guide shares wildlife facts and the history of Sarasota and Florida. The tour includes kayaks, paddleboards, paddles and life vests. Children are welcome from age four, and the calm waters suit all fitness levels.

The experience

What makes this tour stand out is the manatees. There are only a few places in the world where you can reliably see West Indian Manatees, and Sarasota is one of them. You'll paddle the calm, pristine waterways while your guide takes you to the spots where wildlife shows up most often: dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, live conch, pelicans, mangroves and pink spoonbills all turn up on the same morning. The guide gives you facts about each animal and weaves in the history of Sarasota and Florida as you move through the cypress channels.

You choose between kayaks or paddleboards depending on what feels right for you. Both come with paddles and life vests, and the water is calm enough that the tour works for anyone, regardless of fitness level. The two-hour pace lets you cover ground without rushing, and the guide steers you toward the quieter spots where the animals actually are instead of the crowded channels. Kids from age four can join, making it a family-friendly way to get on the water and see what lives in it.

What’s included

• Kayaks or paddleboards.
• paddles and life vests.
• a live guide in English sharing wildlife facts and Sarasota history.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 08:30, 10:30 and 12:30

Book up toStart time

AgesAdult (8 to 84 years) · Child (4 to 7 years) · Under 4: can't be booked

GroupUp to 15

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Low physical effortPets welcomePublic transport nearby

Operated by Three Brothers Boards Dolphin and Manatee Paddle Board Tours

Is this one for you?If you're staying in Sarasota without a car, check whether the operator offers pickup from your hotel or a central meeting point. The calm waterways and two-hour length make this a half-day activity that fits easily into the rest of your day once you're on the water.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (4 to 7 years). Children under 4 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

Can I do this tour if I've never kayaked before?

Yes. The waterways are calm and the tour is designed for all fitness levels, so beginners paddle comfortably. Your guide will show you how to handle the paddle and steer, and you'll spend the morning at an easy pace.

What wildlife will I actually see on this tour?

Dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, pelicans, pink spoonbills and live conch all appear regularly in these waterways. Your guide takes you to the spots where they show up most often, though sightings depend on the day and the season.

Do I need to bring my own life vest?

No. Life vests are included with the tour, along with kayaks or paddleboards and paddles. You just bring yourself and wear what you'd wear to be on the water.

How long is the tour and what time does it start?

The tour runs two hours. Specific start times depend on the day you book. Check the available times when you select your date.