Paddling through Cocoa Beach’s waterways delivers Florida’s natural beauty up close and personal. The standout experience here is the bioluminescent kayak tour, where microscopic organisms create an otherworldly light show in the water – it’s absolutely magical on moonless nights. Wildlife eco-tours provide reliable sightings of manatees and dolphins, while mangrove tunnel adventures offer a peaceful escape through natural canopies. For photography enthusiasts, sunset tours capture Florida at its most photogenic.
We especially love the guided bioluminescence tours between June and October, when the natural light show is at its peak. The morning manatee tours are another favorite, offering the best chances to spot these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
Let’s look at our favorite kayak and canoe tours in Cocoa Beach…
Key Points
- Cocoa Beach offers a variety of bioluminescence tours, including kayak tours, lagoon tours, and clear kayak tours, providing opportunities to observe diverse marine life.
- Eco-tours in Cocoa Beach allow for leisurely exploration of local wildlife, such as herons, egrets, manatees, and dolphins, through guided kayak tours.
- Sunset and night tours, including guided kayak tours, offer stunning views and insights into the local ecosystem from experienced guides.
- Wildlife tours, such as the Mangrove Tunnel, Manatee, and Dolphin Kayak Tour, provide personalized attention and opportunities to observe endangered species up close.
- Kayak and canoe tours in Cocoa Beach cater to various accessibility needs, with wheelchair-accessible options and necessary equipment provided.
Bioluminescence Kayak Tour
The Bioluminescence Kayak Tour in Cocoa Beach offers travelers a unique opportunity to witness the mesmerizing glow of phytoplankton and other marine life. Rated 4.8 out of 749 reviews, this 2-hour tour takes participants on a journey through the Banana River, where they can spot comb jellyfish, dolphins, and manatees.
With a maximum of 42 travelers, the tour provides a professional guide, equipment, and gratuities. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, but some note issues with overcrowding and limited kayaking time.
The visibility of the bioluminescence varies by season, so it’s best to plan your visit during the peak periods. The Bioluminescence Kayak Tour offers a captivating and educational experience for nature enthusiasts.
Read our full review: Bioluminescence Kayak Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cocoa Beach.
Cocoa Beach: Daytime Guided Kayak Eco-Tour
For those seeking a more leisurely way to explore the natural wonders of Cocoa Beach, the Cocoa Beach: Daytime Guided Kayak Eco-Tour provides an immersive experience.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour takes paddlers on a calm and scenic journey through the area’s waterways, offering up-close encounters with diverse local wildlife. Participants can expect to spot herons, egrets, and perhaps even manatees or dolphins as they glide across the tranquil waters.
The tour’s leisurely pace allows ample time to appreciate the serene beauty of the mangrove forests and saltwater marshes that line the coastline.
Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a first-time paddler, this eco-tour promises a memorable and educational adventure in the heart of Cocoa Beach.
Read our full review: Cocoa Beach: Daytime Guided Kayak Eco-Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Bioluminescence Night Kayaking Tour of Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge
Setting out on a bioluminescence night kayaking tour through the Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge offers visitors a mesmerizing opportunity to witness the natural phenomenon of glowing waters.
Rated 4.6 stars and recommended by 90% of travelers, this 90-minute evening excursion from Cocoa Beach promises an immersive experience.
Paddling through the protected wetlands with minimal light pollution, guests can observe jellyfish lighting up and potentially spot dolphins and manatees, all while learning about the local wildlife from knowledgeable guides.
Although the tour may face occasional crowding and challenges for inexperienced kayakers, the overall consensus praises this unique natural attraction as a must-see in the Cocoa Beach area.
Read our full review: Bioluminescence Night Kayaking Tour of Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge Review
Book now: Check availability
Cocoa Beach: Sunset Guided Kayak Tour
Cocoa Beach’s sunset guided kayak tour offers visitors a tranquil and picturesque experience on the waters. Launching from the city’s scenic kayak launch, the tour guides paddlers through the calm, protected waterways, providing a front-row seat to the area’s stunning sunsets.
Experienced guides share insights about the local wildlife and ecosystems, making the adventure both relaxing and educational. The tour typically lasts around 2-3 hours, allowing plenty of time to soak in the vibrant oranges and pinks that paint the sky as the sun dips below the horizon.
With equipment and safety gear provided, the sunset kayak tour is an ideal way to explore Cocoa Beach’s natural beauty and end the day on a high note.
Read our full review: Cocoa Beach: Sunset Guided Kayak Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Mangrove Tunnel, Manatee and Dolphin Kayak Tour of Cocoa Beach
This immersive kayak tour through Cocoa Beach’s mangrove tunnels offers visitors a chance to observe manatees and dolphins in their natural habitat.
With a maximum group size of 11, the personalized attention ensures an intimate experience. High-quality tandem and single kayaks, along with life jackets and paddles, are provided.
Friendly, knowledgeable guides enhance the tour with insights into the local ecosystem, and complimentary photos capture the highlights.
With over 750 reviews and a 5.0 rating, this tour is highly recommended, with 100% of travelers suggesting it. Priced at $51.30 per person, the tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The meeting locations are conveniently located and accessible.
Read our full review: Mangrove Tunnel, Manatee and Dolphin Kayak Tour of Cocoa Beach Review
Book now: Check availability
Cocoa Beach: Dolphin and Manatee Kayak or Paddle Tour
Visitors to Cocoa Beach can enjoy the natural wonders of the area by embarking on a guided Dolphin and Manatee Kayak or Paddle Tour.
The 2-hour tour offers the opportunity to spot diverse marine life, including dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and more, while exploring the scenic mangroves and waterways. Priced at $48.75 per person, the tour includes kayaks, paddles, and life jackets.
Customers praise the knowledgeable guides and the abundance of wildlife sightings. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve without upfront payment, this tour provides a convenient and memorable way to experience the beauty of Cocoa Beach.
Read our full review: Cocoa Beach: Dolphin and Manatee Kayak or Paddle Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Thousand Island Mangrove Tunnel, Manatee & Dolphin Kayak Tour W/Cocoa Kayaking
Tourists can embark on an immersive kayak tour through Cocoa Beach’s stunning Thousand Islands area with Cocoa Kayaking.
This small-group adventure offers personalized attention and the chance to encounter manatees, dolphins, and diverse birdlife. Knowledgeable guides share insights into the local ecology, making it an educational experience.
The tour includes photography, capturing your memories. Kayaks, paddles, and life jackets are provided, along with free parking and bottled water.
The activity is wheelchair and stroller accessible, though not recommended for those with certain medical conditions. Priced at $50 per person, the tour receives excellent reviews, with guests praising the guides’ expertise and the opportunity to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.
Read our full review: Thousand Island Mangrove Tunnel, Manatee & Dolphin Kayak Tour W/Cocoa Kayaking Review
Book now: Check availability
Beach, Jetty and Kayak Fishing Charters in Florida
Frequently, anglers flock to Florida’s sandy beaches, jetty structures, and tranquil lagoons in search of an unforgettable fishing experience.
Beach, jetty, and kayak fishing charters in Florida offer a range of options, with prices starting from €378.51 per person for 5-6 hours of fishing. These charters provide all the necessary gear, including rods, reels, and bait, and often allow for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Destinations include the east coast beaches, the renowned Sebastian Inlet, and the Mosquito Lagoon, known as the “redfish capital of the world.”
These experiences cater to various skill levels and offer wheelchair accessibility, making them accessible to a wide range of participants.
Read our full review: Beach, Jetty and Kayak Fishing Charters in Florida Review
Book now: Check availability
Manatee and Dolphin Kayaking | Haulover Canal (Titusville)
A 90-minute kayaking tour from Orlando allows visitors to explore the manatee and dolphin hotspots around Cocoa Beach.
The scenic route from Haulover Canal offers coastal views and the chance to spot wildlife like alligators, stingrays, and various birds.
The tour includes all necessary equipment, and guides provide insights on the local ecosystem and wildlife.
With a 96% recommendation rate and an overall rating of 4.9, this tour is a highlight for many travelers.
Sunscreen, bug spray, and aquatic footwear are recommended, and the tour is accessible for most visitors, though not suited for those with back problems or serious medical conditions.
Read our full review: Manatee and Dolphin Kayaking | Haulover Canal (Titusville) Review
Book now: Check availability
Paddle Board or Kayak Eco Dolphin Manatee Tour
The Paddle Board or Kayak Eco Dolphin Manatee Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the tranquil waters of the Merritt Island Banana River Aquatic Preserve in Cocoa Beach.
Lasting 2 hours and starting at 9:00 AM, this tour allows guests to spot Florida wildlife like manatees, dolphins, fish, and diverse bird species. Guided by expert instructors, the tour is suitable for all experience levels and provides all the necessary equipment.
With an impressive 4.9/5 rating from 94 reviews, this tour is recommended by 98% of travelers. Guests can expect a relaxing outdoor experience, though wildlife sightings can vary by season.
Read our full review: Paddle Board or Kayak Eco Dolphin Manatee Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Bioluminescent Kayak Tour by THE #1 Rated Company in Cocoa Beach
Experience the magic of bioluminescence on the Bioluminescent Kayak Tour by THE #1 Rated Company in Cocoa Beach.
This 4.9-star rated tour allows you to explore the Banana River Lagoon after dark and witness the mesmerizing glow of bioluminescent organisms. The small-group adventure lets you paddle at your own pace, with all equipment provided.
The meeting point is at the Cocoa Beach Country Club, and the tour returns to the same location. Accessibility is excellent, with single and tandem kayak options.
Glowing reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the unique, enchanting environment. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about the natural wonder of bioluminescence.
Read our full review: Bioluminescent Kayak Tour by THE #1 Rated Company in Cocoa Beach Review
Book now: Check availability
Comb Jelly Bioluminescence Kayak Tour
Cocoa Beach’s captivating bioluminescent displays don’t end with the Banana River Lagoon.
Experience the glow of Comb Jellies on a 2-hour nighttime kayak tour. Paddling through the calm waters, you’ll witness the stunning bioluminescence of these non-stinging organisms.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour departs from the Haulover Canal Kayak Launch, with equipment and safety gear provided.
Suitable for ages 18 and up, this tour is a must-try for nature enthusiasts. With a 97% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, it’s an unforgettable way to explore Cocoa Beach’s natural wonders.
Don’t forget to bring water, snacks, and a camera to capture the mesmerizing glow.
Read our full review: Comb Jelly Bioluminescence Kayak Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Clear Kayak Bioluminescence Tour
Gliding effortlessly through the tranquil waters of the Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge, the Clear Kayak Bioluminescence Tour offers a captivating glimpse into Cocoa Beach’s natural wonders.
Priced at SEK 949.11 per person, this 360-degree kayaking adventure accommodates up to 15 travelers, allowing them to witness the mesmerizing bioluminescence phenomenon and potential sightings of nocturnal birds and diverse fish.
Equipped with clear-bottom kayaks, participants can fully enjoy the scenic views, including sunsets and rocket launches.
With a 94% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this tour provides an unforgettable experience for nature lovers seeking a unique encounter in the Orlando area.
Preparation is key, as participants are advised to bring bug spray, wear long sleeves, and expect potential delays.
Read our full review: Clear Kayak Bioluminescence Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Bioluminescent Clear Kayak Tours in Titusville
The Bioluminescent Clear Kayak Tours in Titusville offer a mesmerizing adventure through the tranquil waters of the Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge.
Departing from the Haulover Canal Kayak Launch in Mims, FL, these tours take small groups of up to 10 travelers on a journey to witness the magical glow of bioluminescence.
With a 5-star rating and recommended by 98% of past participants, the tours provide clear kayaks, all necessary fees, and a meeting and pickup service.
While wheelchair and stroller accessible, these tours aren’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions.
Priced from €115.47 per person, the tours offer a unique opportunity to take in the natural wonders of Florida’s waterways.
Read our full review: Bioluminescent Clear Kayak Tours in Titusville Review
Book now: Check availability
Manatee and Dolphin Kayaking Encounter
Offering a unique opportunity to observe Florida’s captivating marine life, the Manatee and Dolphin Kayaking Encounter takes adventurers on a 2-hour guided tour through the serene waterways of the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge near Cocoa Beach.
With a 99% recommendation rate from 205 travelers, this 5-star rated activity allows participants to paddle alongside manatees, dolphins, and other wildlife while learning about the local ecosystem from knowledgeable guides.
Included are all necessary equipment, with a maximum of 42 travelers per tour. Participants should come prepared with water shoes, towels, and optional cameras, as this family-friendly adventure promises close encounters and unforgettable memories.
Read our full review: Manatee and Dolphin Kayaking Encounter Review
Book now: Check availability
Wildlife Refuge Manatee, Dolphin & Mangrove Kayak or Paddleboarding Tour!
For an unforgettable encounter with Florida’s captivating marine life, the Wildlife Refuge Manatee, Dolphin & Mangrove Kayak or Paddleboarding Tour offers a truly immersive experience.
Kayaking or paddleboarding through the serene mangrove forests, Indian River, and Mosquito Lagoon, you’ll have the chance to spot manatees, bottlenose dolphins, alligators, and a variety of bird species.
With knowledgeable guides to enhance the experience, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the region’s diverse wildlife and stunning coastal scenery.
Accessible to all, this tour includes necessary equipment and allows for maximum flexibility in scheduling.
Prepare for an adventure that’s sure to be a highlight of your Cocoa Beach vacation.
Read our full review: Wildlife Refuge Manatee, Dolphin & Mangrove Kayak or Paddleboarding Tour! Review
Book now: Check availability
Thousand Islands Bioluminescent Kayak Tour With Cocoa Kayaking!
Cocoa Kayaking’s Thousand Islands Bioluminescent Kayak Tour invites you to embark on a captivating journey through the mesmerizing bioluminescent waters of the Thousand Islands.
This highly-rated, $75 per person tour offers a maximum group size of 10 travelers, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Paddle amidst the glowing plankton and jellyfish, while knowledgeable guides provide assistance and information. The calm, beautiful scenery and opportunities to catch comb jellies make this a truly unique experience.
With 98% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour is accessible for wheelchair users and includes essential equipment like kayaks, paddles, and life jackets.
Don’t miss this exceptional chance to witness the natural wonder of bioluminescence in Cocoa Beach.
Read our full review: Thousand Islands Bioluminescent Kayak Tour With Cocoa Kayaking! Review
Book now: Check availability
Clear Kayak Guided Kayak Tours in Titusville
Titusville’s Clear Kayak Guided Kayak Tours invite adventurous travelers to explore the serene waterways of the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.
Recommended by 99% of guests, these tours provide an immersive experience in a clear kayak, allowing visitors to observe manatees, dolphins, fish, and endangered bird species up close.
Knowledgeable guides share insights about the local ecosystem and conservation efforts. With a maximum group size of 10, guests enjoy personalized attention.
The tour includes all necessary equipment and fees, and ends back at the convenient meeting point.
While not recommended for those with medical conditions or physical limitations, the moderate fitness level required makes this an enjoyable adventure for many.
Read our full review: Clear Kayak Guided Kayak Tours in Titusville Review
Book now: Check availability
Sunset Kayaking W/ Florida Bioluminescence Combo Tour | Haulover Canal
| Haulover Canal
Explore the natural wonders of Cocoa Beach with this captivating sunset kayaking and bioluminescence tour. Departing from the Haulover Canal launch site, this 4.2-rated experience takes you through the scenic waterways, culminating in the mesmerizing glow of bioluminescent plankton. The tour includes all necessary equipment, such as kayaks, life jackets, and paddles, as well as snacks and bottled water. With a maximum of 30 travelers, the tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for most participants, though those with serious medical conditions should check beforehand. Rates start at $70 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Sunset Kayaking W/ Florida Bioluminescence Combo Tour | Haulover Canal Review
Book now: Check availability
One Tandem Kayak Rental for 2 Hours With Manatee & Dolphin Sightings!
Adventurers can embark on a captivating two-hour journey through Cocoa Beach’s picturesque Indian River lagoon with a tandem kayak rental.
The calm waters are suitable for beginners, offering the chance to spot unique aquatic species like dolphins and manatees. The rental includes a tandem kayak, paddle, and life jacket, with the meeting point at Manatee Cove Park.
While private transportation isn’t provided, the activity ends back at the starting point. Booking is straightforward, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is generally suitable for most travelers, barring those with certain medical conditions.
Reviews praise the owner’s friendliness and the overall fun experience.
Read our full review: One Tandem Kayak Rental for 2 Hours With Manatee & Dolphin Sightings! Review
Book now: Check availability
Sum Up
Cocoa Beach and the surrounding areas offer a diverse range of kayaking and canoeing experiences. From bioluminescent tours to mangrove tunnel explorations, visitors can discover the region’s natural wonders. Whether you prefer a guided tour or a self-guided rental, there are numerous options to choose from. With a variety of tour providers and experiences, you’re sure to find the perfect water adventure to suit your interests.
More Tour Reviews in Cocoa Beach
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Cocoa Beach we have reviewed
- Cocoa Beach – Private 2hr Dolphin Sightseeing Tour
- Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Palm Bay by 3Quest Challenge
- Private Transfer From Melbourne to Port Canaveral
- GoBoat Electric Cruising Boat
- Private Dolphin Catamaran Sail In Cocoa Beach
- Private Transfer From Cocoa to Orlando-Sanford (SFB) Airport
- Private Sunset and Bioluminescence Tours in Cocoa Beach
- Private Airboat Bowfishing Palm Bay Florida
- 4 Hours Fishing Kayak Rentals
- Swimming in a Dolphin and Manatee Lagoon Boat Tour
- Dolphin and Manatee River Cruise Melbourne, Fl. 1030
- Wildlife Refuge Bio Comb Jelly Tour Review