Siesta Key: Mangrove Kayak Tour, Manatees & Midnight Pass

Summary

Kayak through Sarasota’s mangroves from Turtle Beach to the reopened Midnight Pass with wildlife and clear water stops

You’ll paddle from quiet Turtle Beach on Siesta Key into Sarasota’s mangrove tunnels with a local guide leading the way. Watch for manatees and dolphins as you glide past islands and bird rookeries before reaching Midnight Pass—a spot with water so clear it barely looks real. There’s time to relax on a sandbar or beach before heading back, salty and happy.

What’s the experience like?

“That splash wasn’t me, was it?” I asked, feeling my paddle wobble as something big moved just under the surface. Our guide—Mike, sunburned but grinning—just pointed toward a shadow sliding past the kayak. “Manatee,” he said, like it was no big deal. The morning had that sticky Florida heat already building up, even though we’d only just left Turtle Beach. It’s quieter here than Siesta Key’s main beach—just a couple of fishermen and the sound of ospreys somewhere overhead.

Paddling through the mangrove tunnels felt like sneaking into another world. The air changed—cooler, thick with that green smell you only get in places like this. Mike kept an eye out for dolphins (we saw one fin, quick as a blink), but he also pointed out little things: cormorants drying their wings on half-sunken branches, tiny crabs scuttling sideways on roots. I tried to keep up with everyone else but got distracted by how the light flickered through the leaves. Sometimes you just want to stop paddling and float for a second.

We reached Midnight Pass after maybe an hour—I lost track because I was busy watching fish jump right in front of my kayak. The water really is crazy clear since those storms last year; you can see straight down to ripples in the sand. Mike picked a sandbar that looked almost fake, white and empty except for us. Some people waded in; I just sat on my kayak and let my feet dangle in the cool water. That salty breeze stuck with me all afternoon. On the way back, someone’s kid tried to race their dad in a tandem kayak (didn’t win), and Mike laughed so hard he nearly dropped his paddle.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayak tour through mangroves and beach

• Launch from Turtle Beach
• Paddle through mangrove tunnels
• Spot dolphins and manatees
• Observe birds like ospreys and eagles
• Explore mangrove islands in Jim Neville Preserve
• Stop at beach or sandbar at Midnight Pass
• Relax and enjoy crystal-clear waters

Top questions

Where does this Sarasota kayak tour start?

The tour launches from Turtle Beach on Siesta Key, away from the crowded main beach.

Will I see manatees or dolphins during this kayak tour?

You have good chances to spot both manatees and dolphins feeding near the mangrove islands.

Is this mangrove kayak tour family-friendly?

Yes, kids 10 and under paddle tandem with an adult; all skill levels are welcome.

How long does it take to reach Midnight Pass by kayak?

It takes about an hour of paddling through mangroves and canals to reach Midnight Pass.

What wildlife might I see besides manatees?

You may see ospreys, bald eagles, cormorants, fish jumping, crabs, and other birds.

Do I need kayaking experience for this tour?

No prior experience is needed; guides monitor conditions and choose safe routes for all levels.

Are kayaks and safety equipment provided?

Yes, single and tandem kayaks plus life jackets and leashes are included in your booking.

Is transportation available to Turtle Beach?

Turtle Beach is accessible by public trolley from downtown Sarasota; no hotel pickup included.

What’s included

Your day includes use of single or tandem kayaks with paddles, safety equipment like life jackets and leashes, plus all government fees covered—just show up at Turtle Beach ready for some sun (and maybe saltwater toes).