Haulover Canal: Manatee & Dolphin Kayak Tour Wildlife Refuge

Summary

Kayak through Florida’s mangroves with manatees dolphins and wild birds

You’ll glide by kayak or paddleboard through Haulover Canal’s wildlife refuge with a local guide, watching manatees and dolphins surface beside you while egrets stalk along tangled roots. Expect quiet moments broken by laughter or surprise sightings — all captured in photos sent after your tour.

What’s the experience like?

We slid our kayaks into the Indian River at Haulover Canal just as the morning air still clung to a bit of salt and river grass. Our guide, Jamie, handed out dry bags and pointed at a lone pelican gliding low over the water — “You’ll want your camera ready,” she grinned. I was still fumbling with my paddle when a ripple broke the surface right in front of us. “Manatee,” Jamie whispered, like it was a secret between us and the water. I didn’t expect to feel so hushed — you know that feeling when you’re suddenly part of something much bigger?

The Wildlife Refuge here is nothing like the busy beaches back in Cocoa Beach. It’s quieter; there’s this soft slap of water against the hull, cicadas buzzing somewhere in the mangroves. A dolphin surfaced off to our left — just once — then vanished before I could even get my phone out (so much for that). Jamie told us about manatee mating season running March through August, which made me laugh because we saw two big gray shapes rolling together near some reeds. She said if you come on a 9 am tour, you’ve got the best shot at seeing them up close. Not a guarantee though — nature does what it wants.

I tried paddleboarding for half an hour (wobbly legs) before switching back to kayak. The sun started warming up fast but there was always a breeze off Mosquito Lagoon. We drifted past tangled roots where tiny blue crabs darted around and white egrets watched us like we were intruding on their morning routine. At one point, Jamie pointed out comb jellies floating just under the surface — they look almost fake until you see them pulse with light when you disturb the water.

By the end, my arms were tired but I didn’t really want it to be over yet. There’s something about paddling through those mangroves that sticks with you longer than any photo (though they do send you some after — mine caught me mid-laugh with hair everywhere). So yeah… if you’re looking for a wildlife tour that feels real and a little unpredictable, this day trip from Cocoa Beach is worth waking up early for.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Wildlife Kayak or Paddleboard Tour

• Call to reserve kayak or paddleboard
• Arrive and sign waivers
• Receive dry bags and life jackets
• Bring water, sunscreen, hat, bug spray
• Use bathroom before tour
• Paddle the Haulover Canal waterway
• Observe manatees, dolphins, birds, and wildlife
• Enjoy Florida sunset views
• Use bathroom after tour
• Receive photos via email or text

Top questions

What animals can I see on the Haulover Canal kayak tour?

You might spot manatees (especially March-August), bottlenose dolphins, Floridian birds like egrets and pelicans, comb jellies, horseshoe crabs, and sometimes alligators.

How long does the Wildlife Refuge kayak or paddleboard tour last?

The tour lasts about 2 hours from start to finish.

Are photos included in this day trip from Cocoa Beach?

Yes, photos are included and will be emailed or texted to you within 48 hours after your guided tour.

Is equipment provided for kayaking or paddleboarding?

Yes, your kayak or paddleboard, life jacket (for 30lbs+), paddle, and dry bags are included on arrival.

When is manatee mating season at Haulover Canal?

Manatee mating season runs from March through August each year.

What should I bring on this wildlife tour?

Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, a wide brim hat, bug spray, towel, and suitable shoes or sandals for kayaking.

Is there a bathroom available before or after the tour?

Yes, bathrooms are available before and after your guided wildlife refuge tour.

What’s included

Your day includes use of a kayak or paddleboard with all gear provided—life jackets for anyone over 30lbs plus dry bags for your belongings—plus small-group guiding through Haulover Canal’s wildlife refuge and digital photos sent afterward so you can relive those moments back home.