16 Best Kayak And Canoe Tours In Florida

Florida’s waterways provide excellent paddling adventures for all skill levels. Some of the most rewarding tours include the full-day Everglades excursion, where alligators and manatees are regular sights. The transparent kayak experiences at Silver Springs and Weeki Wachee showcase Florida’s underwater world at its finest, with crystal-clear views of fish, turtles, and aquatic plants. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the manatee encounters on Marco Island and Silver Springs tours, while nature lovers shouldn’t miss the pristine Wekiva and Loxahatchee River routes. Let’s check out the top kayak and canoe tours worth your time and money.

Key Points

• Comprehensive full-day and extended kayak adventures in the Everglades, offering immersion in the ecosystem and diverse wildlife sightings.
• Transparent kayak tours in central Florida’s Silver Springs and Weeki Wachee, providing exceptional visibility of aquatic life.
• Scenic wildlife kayak tours on the Wekiva River, showcasing Florida’s National Wild and Scenic rivers and opportunities to spot alligators, manatees, and bobcats.
• Affordable short kayak tours in Silver Springs and Loxahatchee River, catering to various budgets and group sizes.
• Unique kayak or SUP tours in Marco Island, allowing paddlers to encounter dolphins, sea turtles, and pink spoonbills.

Full-Day Kayak Adventure in the Everglades

Immersing oneself in the Everglades’ captivating ecosystem is the essence of the Full-Day Kayak Adventure.

This excursion, boasting 620 reviews and a 99% traveler recommendation, offers a chance to explore the wetlands’ diverse wildlife and lush vegetation.

With an experienced guide leading the way, adventurers will paddle through cypress domes, mangrove tunnels, and witness alligators, crocodiles, and manatees in their natural habitats.

The tour, priced from $189.74 per person, accommodates up to 10 travelers and requires a moderate fitness level.

Guests should come prepared with appropriate clothing, bug spray, and plenty of water, as lunch and snacks aren’t provided.

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Silver Springs: Clear Kayak Wildlife Tour

Silver Springs’ Clear Kayak Wildlife Tour offers a unique vantage point to witness the iconic Florida spring’s diverse ecosystem.

Gliding through the crystal-clear waters in a transparent kayak, visitors can observe a variety of aquatic life, including turtles, fish, and the elusive manatee.

The tour guides provide insights into the spring’s ecology and point out notable wildlife.

The calm, mirror-like surface allows for exceptional visibility, making it an ideal activity for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

With its serene atmosphere and abundant wildlife, the Silver Springs Clear Kayak Wildlife Tour provides a captivating and immersive experience for those seeking to explore the natural beauty of central Florida.

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Clear Kayak Tours in Weeki Wachee

Located just a short drive north of Tampa, the Clear Kayak Tours in Weeki Wachee invite visitors to glide through the crystal-clear waters of this natural spring-fed river.

With a 96% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this tour offers an exceptional experience. Guests can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including manatees, dolphins, and alligators, while their knowledgeable guides provide educational insights.

Although some visitors have noted shallow and crowded waters, the overall feedback is overwhelmingly positive.

At $121.70 per person, the tour includes all necessary equipment, safety gear, and bottled water, making it a well-rounded adventure in the heart of Florida’s natural wonders.

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Silver Springs: Clear Kayak Manatee Season Tour

The Silver Springs Clear Kayak Manatee Season Tour invites visitors on a 1.5-hour excursion through the crystal-clear spring-fed Silver River.

Participants will explore the river aboard 100% clear kayaks, led by a knowledgeable guide, with the potential to spot manatees, fish, birds, turtles, monkeys, alligators, and otters.

The small-group tour, limited to 10 participants, offers an immersive experience, including insights into the river’s Hollywood film history.

Priced at $75 per person, the tour includes all necessary equipment and gratuities.

Guests can reserve their spot with no upfront payment and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

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Clear Kayak Tours in Fort Pierce

Although located just a short drive from Silver Springs, Clear Kayak Tours in Fort Pierce offers a distinct wildlife-rich adventure.

With a remarkable 4.9 rating from 508 reviews, the tour is recommended by 98% of travelers. Guests can explore the mangrove tunnels and waters of Fort Pierce Inlet State Park, spotting turtles, dolphins, and manatees.

The small-group experience, limited to 10 travelers, enhances the journey. All necessary equipment is provided, and guides like Todd receive high praise for their expertise and accommodation of diverse groups.

Priced from $75 per person, the tour provides a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

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Glass Bottom Kayak Guided Tour: Silver Springs

Situated within the lush landscapes of Silver Springs State Park, the Glass Bottom Kayak: Silver Springs and Wildlife Tour offers an immersive experience.

For $65 per person, guests embark on a 2-hour guided tour, gliding over crystal-clear springs in glass-bottom kayaks. The tour allows observation of underwater caves, shipwrecks, and diverse wildlife like monkeys, manatees, alligators, and more.

Beginners receive an instructional briefing before the excursion. The tour includes a guide, kayak equipment, and transportation, though park fees are additional.

With an impressive 4.8/5 rating from 24 reviews, this tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides and scenic beauty, making it a popular choice for couples, families, and solo travelers alike.

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Pedal Kayak Tour

Setting out on a unique adventure, the Pedal Kayak Tour in Florida offers a captivating aquatic experience.

This tour, located in the sunshine state, boasts a remarkable 100% recommendation rate from 15 glowing reviews. With a 5.0 rating on Viator and Tripadvisor, the tour earns a well-deserved Badge of Excellence.

Participants can expect bottled water, complimentary non-alcoholic drinks, snorkeling equipment, and even a motor for mobility-challenged guests.

Conveniently starting at North Jetty Park, the tour lasts approximately 3 hours and can accommodate most travelers.

Priced affordably from $65 per person, the Pedal Kayak Tour provides a memorable opportunity to explore Florida’s scenic waterways.

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Orlando: Small Group Scenic Wekiva River Kayak Tour

Nestled within the picturesque Seminole State Forest, the Orlando: Small Group Scenic Wekiva River Kayak Tour offers participants a chance to enjoy the serene beauty of one of Florida’s National Wild and Scenic rivers.

Led by certified ACA instructors and Wilderness First Responders, the 2.5-hour tour promises an up-close encounter with diverse wildlife, including alligators, manatees, and bobcats.

Paddlers can explore the Wekiwa Springs State Park, enjoy scenic views, and optionally swim or snorkel.

With a maximum group size of 10, the tour provides a personalized experience at a cost of Kč 1,912 per person.

Free cancellation and a pay-later option make this an attractive choice for nature enthusiasts visiting Orlando.

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Hiking + Kayaking Tour in Everglades National Park W/ Wet Walk!

Leaving the serene Wekiva River behind, travelers can now enjoy the awe-inspiring Everglades National Park on this comprehensive Hiking + Kayaking Tour. Priced from $275 per person, this 5-star rated tour accommodates up to 12 guests and includes lunch, bottled water, snacks, kayaks, and round-trip transportation.

Knowledgeable guides Stacy and Elijah lead the way, offering opportunities to spot manatees, crocodiles, birds, and endangered fish. Although not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and discounts available for direct bookings.

This adventure in the Florida Everglades promises an unforgettable experience.

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Silver Springs Manatee Kayaking Tour

The Silver Springs Manatee Kayaking Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the crystal-clear waters of Silver Springs State Park and potentially spot the elusive manatees that call this area home.

Priced from Kč 1,554 per person, the 1.5-hour guided tour is limited to 9 participants and 6 kayaks, ensuring an intimate experience. Paddlers can learn techniques from the knowledgeable guide and gain insight into the history of this 200-year-old attraction.

While manatee sightings aren’t guaranteed, the tour also provides the chance to see diverse wildlife, including the park’s resident monkeys.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers a flexible and eco-friendly way to discover the natural wonders of Florida.

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2 Hour Glass Bottom Guided Kayak Eco Tour in Gilchrist Blue

Visitors can embark on a 2-hour guided kayak tour to explore the crystal-clear waters of Gilchrist Blue in Florida. The tour uses 100% clear kayaks, allowing guests to gaze into the springs below.

Included in the $72 fee are dry bags, paddles, life jackets, and a knowledgeable guide. Reviewers praise the guide, “Gator,” for his expertise on the springs, plants, and wildlife.

The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, but not recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions.

With 99% of travelers recommending the experience, this eco-tour offers an immersive way to enjoy the natural beauty of Florida’s springs.

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Blackwater Creek: Exclusive Nature Escape Kayak Adventure

Embarking on the Blackwater Creek kayak adventure offers an exclusive opportunity to take in the tranquil backwaters of Florida’s Seminole State Forest.

This 3-hour guided tour is limited to just 6 participants, ensuring a personalized experience to encounter diverse wildlife like bears, otters, and alligators.

Paddling through the scenic backcountry landscape, guests will have outstanding birdwatching opportunities and enjoy the serene, peaceful river.

The tour includes all necessary equipment, snacks, and a certified guide, making it an accessible and worry-free experience.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this nature escape is a must for those seeking an intimate connection with Florida’s wild beauty.

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Marco Island: Guided Manatee-Watching Kayaking or SUP Tour

As one of the top attractions on Marco Island, the guided manatee-watching kayaking or SUP (standup paddleboard) tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe these gentle marine mammals in their natural habitat.

The 2-hour tour allows participants to paddle alongside dolphins, sea turtles, and pink spoonbills, while taking in panoramic views of the island and its mangrove islands.

With knowledgeable guides providing commentary on the area’s history and ecology, this experience promises an engaging and interactive learning adventure.

Priced from Kč 1,554 per person, the tour includes all necessary equipment and is suitable for couples, families, and solo travelers alike.

Booking flexibility and a generous cancellation policy make this a hassle-free excursion.

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Jupiter: Loxahatchee River Scenic Kayak Tour

Just a short drive from downtown Jupiter, the Loxahatchee River Scenic Kayak Tour invites paddlers to explore the natural wonders of this federally protected waterway.

Priced from $62.15 per person, the 2-hour guided tour takes groups of up to 6 participants through a cypress swamp, past native flora and fauna. Guests can spot wildlife and learn local history from the knowledgeable guide.

The tour includes all necessary equipment, and participants must weigh less than 350 lbs.

With an impressive 4.9/5 rating based on 10 reviews, this tour offers an immersive and engaging experience along the scenic Loxahatchee River.

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Orlando: Small Group Manatee Discovery Kayak Tour

The Orlando: Small Group Manatee Discovery Kayak Tour invites adventurous travelers to explore the serene waters of Blue Spring State Park in search of the gentle giants of the waterways – manatees.

Priced at €75.70 per person, this 2-hour guided tour accommodates up to 10 participants in English and German. Guests can expect close encounters with manatees, as well as the opportunity to spot alligators, turtles, and various bird species.

The expert guides provide insightful commentary on manatee behavior and conservation efforts. With a 4.9/5 rating based on 82 reviews, this tour offers excellent value for money and a refreshing dip during the summer months.

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Wekiva Wildlife Kayaking Adventure Tour

Situated along the pristine Wekiva River, the Wekiva Wildlife Kayaking Adventure Tour offers nature enthusiasts a captivating exploration of the area’s diverse ecosystem.

This 1.5-hour guided kayak tour, limited to 9 participants, allows visitors to observe an array of wildlife, including birds, turtles, otters, deer, and potentially even alligators and manatees.

Paddling 1 mile upstream and drifting back down, guests can relax in the natural setting while learning about the local flora and fauna.

With public restrooms available at the launch site, the tour operates rain or shine, making it an ideal choice for birders and wildlife enthusiasts seeking an immersive outdoor experience.

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Sum Up

Florida offers a wealth of stunning natural landscapes perfect for kayaking and canoeing. Whether you’re seeking manatee-watching, clear kayak tours, or an Everglades adventure, there’s an excursion to suit every interest. With options across the state, from the Panhandle to the Keys, you’ll have no trouble finding the best kayak and canoe tours to learn about Florida’s captivating waterways.