Fort Myers: Dolphin & Manatee Paddle Tour with Beach Stop

Summary

Wildlife encounters, gentle paddling and sandy toes in Fort Myers

You’ll paddle calm waterways in Fort Myers with a local guide, spotting dolphins surfacing nearby and gentle manatees grazing under the mangroves. There’s time for beachcombing on soft white sand and stories about Florida’s wild side. Expect laughter, salt air, and moments that stick with you long after your feet dry off.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the weird hush over the water — just this soft slap of paddles, almost hypnotic. Our guide, Tom (who grew up around here), pointed out a pelican perched like a grumpy old man on a post. The air smelled salty but also kind of green, if that makes sense — maybe from the mangroves? I kept squinting for dolphins because honestly, I wasn’t sure if we’d actually see any. But then there was this sudden whoosh and everyone spun around. A dolphin surfaced right next to us, exhaling so loud it made me laugh out loud. It’s hard to explain how close you feel to them when you’re down at water level, not just watching from some boat.

I was nervous about balancing on the paddleboard (never tried before), but Tom showed me how to kneel first and then stand up slow — “like you’re sneaking up on breakfast,” he joked. There was a family with two kids behind me who kept shouting every time they spotted something moving in the water. At one point we drifted past these fat gray shapes munching quietly near the roots — West Indian manatees, which Tom said are pretty rare outside Florida. They moved so slowly it almost felt like time paused for a second. The sun was already hot by then and I could feel my shoulders getting pink.

We stopped on this patch of white sand that looked straight out of someone’s screensaver (I got sand everywhere). Tom told us stories about old Fort Myers — pirates, hurricanes, all that stuff — while we poked around for shells and bits of coral. Someone found a live conch and we all crowded around; it felt slimy but kind of cool. Honestly, I didn’t expect to care about sea turtles or starfish but seeing them right there made me weirdly protective. We lingered longer than planned because nobody really wanted to leave yet.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Paddle waterways and wildlife viewing

• Paddle down Fort Myers waterways
• Observe dolphins and manatees
• See sea turtles, starfish, and conch
• Spot pelicans and mangroves
• Stop at white sand beaches
• Learn Fort Myers town history

Top questions

Do I need paddleboarding experience for this tour?

No experience is needed; guides help beginners get comfortable on the boards.

Are children allowed on the Dolphin & Manatee Adventure Tour?

Yes, kids as young as 6 have joined the tour successfully.

Is equipment included in the Fort Myers paddle tour?

Yes, paddle boards, paddles, and life vests are provided for everyone.

Will I definitely see dolphins or manatees?

Sightings are common but can’t be guaranteed since wildlife is unpredictable.

Does the tour include a stop at the beach?

Yes, there’s a stop on Fort Myers’ white sand beaches during the tour.

How long does the Dolphin & Manatee Adventure last?

The exact duration isn’t specified but is suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are permitted according to tour info.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near the starting point.

What’s included

Your day includes all paddle boards, paddles, and life vests—just show up ready to get wet feet and maybe sandy toes. You’ll be guided by someone local who knows where dolphins and manatees hang out best, plus there’s time to relax on Fort Myers’ white sand beach before heading back in.