Jupiter: Clear Kayak Eco-Tour with Mangroves & Lighthouse Views

Summary

Kayak through Jupiter’s mangroves and lagoon for close wildlife views

You’ll glide through Jupiter’s peaceful waterways in a clear kayak, spotting dolphins or manatees if you’re lucky and drifting under mangrove canopies near Cato’s Bridge. There’s time to pause at a sandbar and catch unique views of the historic lighthouse—all with a friendly local guide who makes it feel personal. It’s one of those days that lingers after you’ve rinsed off the salt.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I remember is our guide, Jamie, waving us over with this big grin—she’d just spotted a manatee poking its nose up near Cato’s Bridge. I was still figuring out how to balance in the clear kayak (it really is see-through, which feels wild at first), but Jamie made it feel like we were all just friends out for a paddle. She pointed at the mangroves and told us about the tiny crabs that climb them—honestly, I’d never thought about crabs climbing trees before. The water smelled faintly briny and sweet, and there was this gentle slosh every time my paddle dipped in.

We drifted along the Indian River Lagoon, sunlight flickering through the green canopy overhead. At one point, a dolphin surfaced maybe twenty feet away—everyone went quiet except for someone’s kid who whispered “whoa.” The guide handed me her phone so she could snap a photo of us with the old Jupiter Lighthouse in the background. I didn’t expect to care about a lighthouse, but something about seeing it from the water—red brick against all that blue sky—felt different. Maybe it was just being low down in the kayak, almost eye-level with the fish.

There was this sandbar where we stopped to stretch our legs; I let my toes sink into cool sand while Jamie told us how some locals swim here after work when it’s quiet. The whole tour lasted about two hours (shorter on weekends), but time felt fuzzy—I kept noticing little things like pelicans gliding overhead or how my arms started to ache in a good way. If you’re thinking about a day trip in Jupiter and want something easygoing but not boring, this clear kayak eco-tour sticks with you longer than you’d think.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Clear kayak tour with wildlife viewing

• Start kayaking near Jupiter Lighthouse
• View and photograph Jupiter Lighthouse
• Paddle through mangrove lagoon near Cato's Bridge
• Spot manatees, dolphins, and shorebirds
• Explore Indian River Lagoon waters
• Visit sandbar for break and views

Top questions

How long does the clear kayak eco-tour in Jupiter last?

The tour lasts 2 hours on weekdays and 1.5 hours on weekends.

Is there a weight limit for participants?

The limit is 250 pounds per person or 425 pounds per couple sharing a kayak.

Are children allowed on this Jupiter kayaking tour?

Yes, children age 3+ can join but must share a kayak with an adult (18+).

What wildlife might I see during this eco-tour?

You may see manatees, dolphins, starfish, shorebirds, and small marine life.

Is equipment provided for the clear kayak tour?

Your booking includes use of a clear kayak and dry bag during the tour.

Where does the tour take place?

The route covers Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area including Indian River Lagoon and Cato’s Bridge area.

Can service animals join this kayaking experience?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, there are public transportation options close to the departure point.

What’s included

Your day includes use of a clear kayak and dry bag for your belongings; families should know kids under 17 need to share their kayak with an adult. You’ll be guided by someone local who knows these waters well—and yes, they’ll help snap photos if you want them to capture your paddling moment near Jupiter Lighthouse before heading back in together.