Merritt Island: Manatee & Dolphin Kayak Tour Wildlife Close-Up

Summary

Kayak with manatees and dolphins in Florida’s wild refuge

You’ll paddle quietly through Merritt Island’s wildlife refuge with a small group, watching endangered manatees drift by and dolphins hunt nearby. Your local guide shares stories as you spot birds and maybe even gators. Expect gentle encounters up close — sometimes so close you feel their breath — plus all your kayaking gear included for an easy start.

What’s the experience like?

Li was already waiting by the kayaks when we pulled up, waving us over with that easy Florida grin. “You’ll want to leave your shoes here,” she said, pointing at my sneakers. The sand felt cool and a bit squishy under my toes — not what I expected for a morning on Merritt Island, but it made sense once we slid into the water. She handed me a paddle and grinned, “Don’t worry, the manatees are the gentle ones.” I think I laughed louder than I meant to.

I’d read about this manatee and dolphin kayaking encounter before coming to Florida but didn’t expect how quiet it’d be out there. Just the soft dip of paddles and sometimes a snort from somewhere close — turns out that’s what manatees sound like when they come up for air. One of them actually nudged my kayak (felt more like a slow bump than anything), and Li just nodded like it happens every day. She told us their nickname is “sea cows” but seeing them drift under the surface, they looked more like big gray clouds moving through tea-colored water. There was this moment where everything went still except for some distant osprey calls — I still think about that.

We kept paddling along the mangroves, sun getting warmer on our backs. Li pointed out dolphins fishing nearby — you could see their fins slicing through the water, chasing after something invisible to us. A pelican crash-landed right next to my friend’s kayak; he almost dropped his paddle laughing. We spotted spoonbills too, all pink against the green brush, and even a horseshoe crab crawling along the shallows (I nearly missed it). It felt less like a tour and more like tagging along with someone who just knows these waters inside out.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Manatee and dolphin kayaking adventure

• Float in manatee lounging spots
• Observe manatees nuzzle kayaks
• Search for playful dolphins
• Watch other Florida wildlife
• Observe manatees without disturbance

Top questions

How long is the manatee & dolphin kayaking tour?

The kayak tour lasts about 2 hours on Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.

Are kayaks and safety gear included?

Yes, your kayak, paddle, personal flotation device (PFD), and safety light are all included.

Is hotel pickup provided for this tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; you meet at the starting point near Merritt Island.

Can children join this kayaking encounter?

Infants must sit on an adult’s lap; moderate physical fitness is recommended for travelers.

What wildlife might I see besides manatees?

You may spot dolphins, pelicans, osprey, roseate spoonbills, horseshoe crabs, and possibly an alligator.

Should I bring anything special for the tour?

Bring clothes you don’t mind getting wet, water shoes or sandals, towel (for after), snacks or bottled water if needed.

Is public transportation available nearby?

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

Do I need kayaking experience to join?

No prior experience is required; guides will help beginners during the tour.

What’s included

Your two-hour day trip includes all kayak equipment—paddle, PFD life vest, safety light—and guidance from a knowledgeable local who knows every corner of Merritt Island’s wildlife refuge. You’ll get time floating among manatees and searching for dolphins with plenty of chances to stop for photos or just take it in at your own pace before heading back ashore together.