Kayaking in Indian River: Dolphins & Manatees

Paddle quietly into manatee territory and watch them approach your kayak out of curiosity.

Kayak the Indian River near Orlando and Cocoa Beach for 2 hours with a local guide, paddling through the warm coves where manatees and dolphins gather. The tour includes kayak, paddle and personal flotation device. You'll move slowly and quietly to observe these animals without disturbing them, with plenty of time to photograph and video. Families and beginners are welcome, and the experience suits anyone with moderate fitness who wants to encounter Florida wildlife in their natural habitat.

The experience

You arrive at Haulover Canal ready to paddle into one of Florida's most active wildlife corridors. The Indian River's warm, brackish waters draw manatees year-round, and they're curious about kayakers. You'll watch them surface alongside your boat to investigate. A local guide leads the group quietly through the coves and lagoons where these animals spend their day, pointing out dolphins and manatees as they appear. The pace is slow and deliberate, which is what makes close encounters possible.

Manatees are known for their friendly, inquisitive nature, and the guide will explain how to observe them respectfully without chasing or touching. You'll have time to take photos and videos throughout the 2 hours, capturing moments as the animals move through the water around you. The kayak sits low on the water, which puts you at eye level with the wildlife and makes the experience feel intimate rather than distant.

Bring sunblock, insect repellent, sunglasses and a water bottle. The guide provides the kayak, paddle and personal flotation device. The tour runs in favorable weather only. If conditions turn poor, you can reschedule for another date or receive a full refund.

What’s included

• Local guide leading the paddle.
• kayak, paddle and personal flotation device provided.
• 2 hours on the water through Indian River's coves and lagoons where manatees and dolphins gather.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 11:00

Book up to1d before

AgesAdult (6 and older) · Under 6: can't be booked

GroupUp to 10

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.

Prices and times updated 7 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortPets welcomeNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problems

Operated by BK Adventure

Is this one for you?Small groups and families paddle together, so you'll be with other travelers rather than alone. The slow, quiet pace suits anyone new to kayaking or looking for a wildlife encounter rather than an athletic paddle.

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Top questions

What are manatees like when they come close to the kayak?

Manatees are gentle and curious. They often approach kayaks to investigate the paddlers, seeming to want to get to know who this new presence is. They're friendly animals, and the guide will help you understand their behavior so you can observe them safely and respectfully.

How long is the kayaking part, and what's included in the paddle?

The tour runs 2 hours total, paddling through the Indian River's coves and lagoons. Your guide provides the kayak, paddle and personal flotation device. You bring sunblock, insect repellent, sunglasses and a water bottle.

Is this kayaking suitable for families with young children?

Yes, the tour is designed for families and beginners. Children should be at least 3 years old and have moderate physical fitness to participate comfortably in the kayak.

What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my tour?

If poor weather forces a cancellation, you can choose an alternative tour date or receive a full refund.

Will I see both manatees and dolphins on the same paddle?

The Indian River is home to both species, and you'll encounter manatees and dolphins during the 2-hour journey. Sightings depend on where the animals are that day, but the warm waters of this estuary draw them regularly.