Kayaking with coastal wildlife in Sarasota Bay
Overview
Available languages
2 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
We are the only paddling outfitter with kayak access to this spectacular area in the clear waters between Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key, which means no crowds and more exclusive wildlife viewing opportunities!
Wildlife-viewing here is outstanding! Our expert naturalist guides set the gold standard for hospitality in our beautiful corner of the world and are always very respectful of any wildlife encountered on the tour.
While larger groups can easily be accommodated upon request, we always limit our tours to small groups and we are rewarded with a very relaxed and happy group of paddlers. This excursion is perfect for families, couples, groups, and individuals with any level of paddling experience. First-time paddlers are always welcome.
If you are looking for an incredibly relaxed and memorable adventure during your visit to Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key, this is it!
Additional Info
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What To Expect
Manatees, dolphins, birds, and a huge variety of marine life are the highlights of the Coastal Island Kayak Tour! After making sure our group is very comfortable and ready for our relaxed adventure, we begin our tour in the very calm waters of Bishop's Bayou, directly behind our kayak shop at the meetup location. As we paddle through The Historic Longbeach Village, we will glide by beautiful homes and keep our eyes open for the birds and marine life. We'll make our way into Sarasota Bay and the spectacular, clear waters between Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key. This special area is a major wildlife gathering spot where manatees, dolphins, and other marine animals make regular movements between the Gulf of Mexico and Sarasota Bay. We often stop at one of several beautiful spots to get out and stretch our legs. After we soak up enough "life on the coast", we'll head back to our starting location, where you can rinse, refresh, and marvel at the awesome adventure you just had! Epic wildlife-viewing opportunities, pristine white-sand beaches, tranquil sandbars, and endless opportunities for lifelong memories await you on this award-winning tour. Come see for yourself :)
Options
Coastal Wildlife Tour
What‘s Included
Dry bag to store your phone and personal items
Coast Guard approved (and comfortable!) life vest
High-quality, comfortable kayak & paddle
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
please bring your reusable water bottle!
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
28 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
This was the highlight of our trip to Florida!
Theresa R,Jun 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00At the end of our week on Anna Maria Island, all four of us stated that this was our favorite activity of the week. Shane was an awesome guide, showing us many different creatures in the air and in the water. He did a great job giving everyone equal attention and keeping us safe on the water. The pace was good for all members of the group. We are sad that it was cloudy, so we didn't really see the sunset for our Sunset Kayaking, but it was still a fun cruise and a wonderful experience. Highly recommended!
Saw manatees and dolphins...
Chris D,May 24, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Saw manatees and dolphins and birds! Moderate kayak depending upon the tides. Bring water and sunscreen.
Lots of fun
R9913RGryane,May 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Allen was a fantastic guide! Local guy that knows all the history and the best spots. Super friendly. Encountered a couple manatee and dolphin pods that were fun to watch. Clean shop and kayaks. Highly recommend this outfitter for any guided kayak tours around Longboat Key!
Fun excursion!
carolkZ9691AS,Apr 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I went on this kayak trip with a friend and we thoroughly enjoyed it. Well worth our time!
Great kid friendly mangrove tour
N4988FVamys,Apr 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00My two sons (9 and 12 y) and I had a great small group tour through the mangroves with Happy Paddler and our tour guide Jeff. Jeff was extremely knowledgeable about the wildlife and the history of the mangrove park and made the tour so much fun for me and the boys. We had a great time out on the water. I highly recommend!
There are Perfect Mornings!
Bridget H,Apr 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Communication, kindness and knowledge are key elements when choosing an activity while on vacation! Happy Paddler has all of those positive elements and more!
Beautiful day on the water with a great guide!
567ellenl,Mar 28, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Fantastic experience. This was the 1st time we had ever kayaked and Jeff was a stellar teacher and guide. We learned about sealife, birdlife, and mangroves. So, not only was the tour fun, it was very educational! Thanks for your mango book suggestion, too.
Highly recommend
Trek35774788113,Mar 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00My Family and I had a great time! My husband and I with our 3 kids (8/10/13). We did two tandem and our 13 year did the solo one. When you launch, there is shallow water to practice before going to the mangrove tunnels. Also, 6+ have to have a life jacket on. The gentleman was very informative and so nice. I prefer Happy Paddlers kayaks over other.
Kayaking
E4609CRsusanp,Mar 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Jeff was a great guide through the mangroves. His knowledge and stories were very informative. We really enjoyed our time
Such a pleasant experience
pauljS1218SL,Mar 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great experience. Shawn was great. Super personable and knowledgeable.
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Operated by Happy Paddler Kayak Tours & EcoVentures