Key West Sandbar Charter: Kayak Tour, Lunch & Drinks

Summary

Kayak through mangroves then lounge on a private Key West sandbar

You’ll kayak through Key West’s mangrove mazes with a local guide, spot wildlife in the Florida Marine Sanctuary, then share lunch and drinks as you drift to a quiet sandbar at Jewfish Basin. There’s time for floating, paddleboarding or just soaking up that wild blue sky—something about this day stays with you long after you rinse off the salt.

What’s the experience like?

Someone handed me a cold drink before I’d even found my balance on the deck — pretty sure I grinned like an idiot. The boat left Key West behind, wind tossing my hair and the captain cracking jokes about how locals tell time by sunburns. We drifted past houses painted in that faded pastel way, pelicans eyeing us like we owed them something. The Florida Marine Sanctuary opened up around us — quiet except for the splash of water against the hull and someone’s laugh echoing off the bow.

I didn’t expect to love kayaking through the mangroves as much as I did. Our guide, Dani (who grew up here), pointed out a nurse shark gliding under our paddles — “Don’t worry, she’s just curious,” she said, and I actually believed her. The air smelled green and salty; you could hear tiny crabs clicking somewhere inside those tangled roots. My arms got tired but in a good way. Someone behind me tried to pronounce “mangrove” in Spanish and got it so wrong Dani had to stop paddling because she was laughing too hard.

Lunch showed up just when I started thinking about food — Cuban sandwiches still warm, fried chicken that tasted like someone’s grandma made it. Fruit trays sweating in the sun. We ate on the move toward Jewfish Basin, where the sandbar was so white it almost hurt my eyes. Everyone sort of spread out once we anchored: some floated with beers, others tossed a football or just stood knee-deep staring at nothing in particular. I ended up talking with one of the crew about growing up on these islands — he said you never really get used to how blue everything is out here.

I keep thinking about that silent moment right before we headed back — salt drying on my skin, last bit of sun slipping behind the boat. You know how sometimes you feel full without really knowing why? It was kind of like that.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Key West Sandbar and Kayak Tour

• Check in at 201 William Street
• Cruise to Florida Marine Sanctuary
• Guided kayak eco tour through mangroves
• Spot marine wildlife with expert guides
• Enjoy lunch en route to sandbar
• Explore secluded sandbar
• Access open bar with drinks
• Return to dock around 4:00 PM

Top questions

How long is the Key West sandbar charter tour?

The tour departs at 12:30 PM and returns around 4:00 PM.

Is lunch included on this Key West kayak & sandbar trip?

Yes, lunch includes Cuban sandwiches, fried chicken tenders, veggie wraps, fruit trays and more.

Are drinks provided during the sandbar charter?

Yes, unlimited draft beer, wine and soft drinks are included after kayaking finishes.

Do I need kayaking experience for this tour?

No previous experience is needed; guides provide instruction if you want it.

What should I bring for this Key West day trip?

Bring a bathing suit, towel, sunglasses, hat and sunscreen—basically anything for a day at the beach.

Can I snorkel during this tour?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided for use at the sandbar or reef stops.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup; check-in is at 201 William Street 30 minutes before departure.

What’s included

Your day includes guided kayaking through mangroves in The Mud Keys with all equipment provided, lunch featuring local favorites like Cuban sandwiches and fresh fruit trays served onboard as you cruise toward Jewfish Basin’s secluded sandbar oasis. There’s unlimited draft beer, wine and soft drinks after kayaking wraps up plus water toys—floats, footballs—and paddleboards ready for exploring or relaxing until it’s time to head back to Key West in late afternoon.