4 Sarasota Kayaking Tours for Every Kind of Paddler

1.Sarasota Guided Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 2,440 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $59Our pick

Launch from 190 Taft Drive for a two-hour guided kayak trip through Little Sarasota Bay and South Lido’s mangrove tunnels. Choose a single or tandem kayak, follow guides such as Ian, Kenny, or Dinko, and watch for manatees, dolphins, rays, crabs, and birds. Equipment and a USCG life jacket are included.

“We had a great time on the mangrove kayak tour with Kenny as our guide. He was very informative, pointing out wildlife and sharing fascinating insights about the ecosystem. The pace was perfect—relaxing yet engaging—and the scenery was fantastic. A fun, peaceful way to connect with nature. Highly recommend!”

Check availability →Read our full review

2.Sarasota Mangrove Tunnel Guided Kayak Adventure

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,217 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $65

You’ll learn basic kayak handling, paddle Sarasota Bay, search for dolphins, manatees, rays, eagles, and birds, then enter Ted Sperling Nature Park’s mangrove tunnels. Guides such as Cody, Jordan, Patrick, Jacob, and Steffan add local history, wildlife facts, safety help, and plenty of humor. The tour lasts about two hours and costs $65 per person.

“Crew was great, worked with us after a reservation mix up on my end and got us in. Guide Cody was awesome, loved that guy! 10/10 would do again”

Check availability →Read our full review

3.Mangroves, Manatees, and a Hidden Beach: Kayak Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 926 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $59

Start at Turtle Beach Boat Launch and paddle calm Sarasota Bay with a guide, then wind through the Jim Neville Preserve by kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Guides such as Orion, Billy, and Michael share local wildlife details. Expect a beach or sandbar stop, possible manatees and dolphins, and a relaxed two-hour outing for all skill levels.

“If the group is to large You won't be able to hear the tour guide. They will repeat the information. We saw Osprey collect material and add it to a nest. Also, catch a fish”

Check availability →Read our full review

4.Sarasota – Clear Kayak LED Night Glass Bottom Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 459 reviews · 1 hour 15 minutes (approx.) · from $65

You’ll paddle a tandem clear kayak on Sarasota Bay for about 75 minutes, with 10,000 lumens of LED light shining below the boat. Guides such as Dan, Steve, Matt, and Jesse help identify fish and other sea life, while nets let you collect shells and small creatures for a brief show-and-tell. Expect a relaxed pace and wet clothes.

“Steve was excellent guide, had to change plans due to wind/weather but other than that fun time. sea life activity can vary on tides/wind”

Check availability →Read our full review