6 Best Kayak And Canoe Tours In Fort Myers

Southwest Florida’s best paddling experiences await in Fort Myers, where guided eco-tours combine wildlife watching with gentle exercise. My favorite route starts at Bunche Beach, perfectly timed for manatee and dolphin encounters. The 2.5-hour Big Hickory Pass tour stands out for its expert naturalists and consistent wildlife sightings. For independent explorers, single kayak rentals offer flexibility, while half and full-day tours cover more ground through pristine tidal wetlands. I’m impressed by the wheelchair-accessible launch points, making these waters available to all skill levels. Check out our carefully selected top tours below.

Key Points

• Bunche Beach and Big Hickory Pass offer top-rated guided kayak eco-tours with opportunities to spot wildlife like manatees, dolphins, and birds.
• Kayak rentals at Bunche Beach and Pelican Bay provide flexible options for self-guided exploration of the area’s 700 acres of tidal wetlands.
• Big Hickory Pass guided group tours accommodate up to 99 travelers, with wheelchair and stroller accessibility, and receive 5-star ratings.
• Single kayak rentals at Big Hickory Pass offer a budget-friendly option with free cancellation, pay later, and 5-star ratings.
• The guided kayak tours and rentals in Fort Myers cater to various group sizes, accessibility needs, and price points, ensuring a memorable outdoor experience.

Guided Kayak Eco Tour – Bunche Beach

Explore the serene Bunche Beach on a guided kayak eco tour. This highly-rated experience boasts a 5.0 rating from 192 reviews and a 96% recommendation rate.

Paddling through mangrove tunnels, you’ll spot manatees, dolphins, and a variety of birds. Knowledgeable guides provide engaging nature education throughout the tour.

With a maximum group size of 12, the experience offers a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. Kayaks, life jackets, and parking are included, ensuring a hassle-free outing.

Suitable for most travelers, this tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible. Explore the natural wonders of southwest Florida for €76.93 per person, with the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Read our full review: Guided Kayak Eco Tour – Bunche Beach Review
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5-Hour Guided Group Kayak Tour on Big Hickory Pass

A 2.5-hour guided group kayak tour on Big Hickory Pass offers visitors an immersive experience exploring the serene Estero Bay. Rated 5 stars with 269 reviews, the tour allows travelers to paddle through mangrove tunnels and spot wildlife like dolphins, osprey, and manatees.

Priced from $55 per person, the tour provides all necessary equipment, including kayaks, life vests, and dry bags. Guides share insights on the local ecosystem, and participants can enjoy beachcombing on a private shell-covered beach.

The tour accommodates up to 99 travelers and is accessible to those using wheelchairs, strollers, and service animals. With morning and afternoon options, the tour is perfect for nature enthusiasts and families seeking an unforgettable adventure.

Single Kayak Rental on Big Hickory Pass

Visitors can rent a single kayak to freely explore the serene waters of Big Hickory Pass in Bonita Springs, Florida. Priced from $29 per person, the rental includes a kayak, paddle, and life vest.

The location is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it suitable for most travelers. With a perfect 5-star rating from 43 reviews, the activity comes highly recommended.

Kayakers can start and end their journey at the meeting point on Big Hickory Pass. The rental offers the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, as well as a reserve now, pay later option.

Read our full review: Single Kayak Rental on Big Hickory Pass Review
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Full Day Kayak or SUP Rental (8hr) – Bunche Beach

For those seeking a full-day adventure, the Bunche Beach in Fort Myers offers an unparalleled kayak or stand-up paddleboard (SUP) rental experience.

Spanning over 700 acres of natural tidal wetlands, the nature preserve promises a scenic exploration of mangrove forests and Gulf waters. Rentals include two-person kayaks, beginner-friendly with included paddling lessons, as well as fishing kayaks for anglers.

Paddlers will find maps, paddles, backrests, and life jackets provided, along with the option to purchase a dry bag. With a 5-star rating across reviews, this full-day excursion provides an ideal opportunity to spot diverse wildlife, from seabirds to turtles, in a stunning natural setting.

Read our full review: Full Day Kayak or SUP Rental (8hr) – Bunche Beach Review
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Half Day Kayak or SUP Rental (3hr) – Pelican Bay

Frequently, visitors to Pelican Bay in Fort Myers can embark on a captivating half-day kayak or stand-up paddleboard (SUP) rental experience. For just $39.95 per person, explorers can enjoy a 3-hour rental at Kayak Excursions Pelican Bay.

The rental includes essential amenities like maps, paddles, backrests, and life jackets. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this activity is perfect for spontaneous travelers.

Reviews rave about the enthusiastic host, who provides thorough safety and navigation guidance. Guests may even spot manatees, dolphins, and other local wildlife during their peaceful paddle.

This convenient location, just off San Carlos Boulevard, makes it an accessible option for those seeking a memorable water adventure.

Read our full review: Half Day Kayak or SUP Rental (3hr) – Pelican Bay Review
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Kayaking the Canals of Venice, FL

Travelers can embark on a captivating kayak adventure through the serene canals of Venice, FL. Operated by Try Leisure, this 3-hour tour offers a maximum group size of 4, starting at 9 AM.

For $48 per person, you will receive a kayak, floating device, first aid, and safety equipment, as well as snacks and water. The tour departs from South Venice Beach Ferry, with a large grass parking area available.

While not wheelchair accessible, the activity is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, though individuals with heart problems or serious medical conditions should avoid it.

With an impressive 4.9/5 rating based on 7 reviews, this tour promises an enjoyable and enriching experience exploring the picturesque waterways of Venice, FL.

Read our full review: Kayaking the Canals of Venice, FL Review
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Sum Up

Fort Myers offers a variety of kayak and canoe tours to suit different interests and skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a guided eco-tour, a self-guided rental, or a full-day adventure, there’s an option to explore the area’s natural beauty by water. From Bunche Beach to the canals of Venice, these tours provide a unique way to experience the coastal landscapes of Southwest Florida.