The 4 Best St Petersburg Kayaking Tours

1.Clear Kayak Tour of Shell Key Preserve and Tampa Bay Area

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 5,800 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $79Our pick

Meet your guide at Billy’s Stone Crab in Tierra Verde for a two-hour clear kayak trip to Shell Key Preserve. Paddle tandem kayaks through open water and mangroves, stop for shells and photos, and watch for dolphins, pelicans, spoonbills, manatees, fish, and crabs. Guides such as Alessia, Jenna, Ben, and Chris add useful local insight.

“Relaxing kayaking experience out to a Gulf key. Ben was a great tour guide, he was very informed and provide a great tour.”

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2.Shell Key Clear Kayak Sunset & Glow Tours

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 542 reviews · 1 hour 30 minutes (approx.) · from $84

Paddle a clear tandem kayak through Shell Key Preserve as color-changing LEDs light the water below. Guides such as Raven, Bria, Carmen, Jada, and Matt lead small groups of up to 10, pointing out fish, crabs, birds, and other wildlife. Sunset departures may include a beach stop, while later tours focus on stars, glowing water, and nighttime wildlife.

“Raven was absolutely awesome. Fun, informative and unique. Loved it and would recommend the glow on the dark kayak tour.”

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3.Small Group Kayak Tour of the Shell Key Preserve

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 501 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $79

Spend about three hours kayaking around Shell Key Preserve near St. Petersburg. Coastal Kayak Charters supplies kayaks, instruction, and dry bags, with guides such as Taylor, Tracy, Brian, Kristi, and Alivia leading small groups through mangroves and open water. Expect possible dolphins, manatees, fish, birds, shelling, and a beach stop.

“Taylor was great. Was the second time we have kayaked with her. Kids loved it. She was extremely knowledgeable and friendly. Well organized and lots of fun.”

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4.Kayak Adventure of Shell Key Preserve & Island with a Local

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 178 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $58Best value

Join Florida locals Scott and Karissa for a three-hour kayak trip through Shell Key Preserve near St. Petersburg. Paddle shallow grassy waters, pass through mangrove tunnels when tides allow, watch for dolphins, manatees, fish, and birds, then stop at Shell Key Island for swimming, shells, and beach time.

“We truly enjoyed our day with Scott and Karissa. Very knowledgeable, friendly, and down-to-earth people. Scott gave great kayak pointers before we started our day to ensure a smooth experience. Gave interesting facts about the wildlife and environment of the mangroves. All in all worth the money and would definitely recommend it!!!”

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