Weeki Sunset

If you’re looking for a truly different way to enjoy Florida’s scenic waterways, the Weeki Sunset tour offers an experience that combines stunning views, peaceful paddling, and a touch of underwater magic. While it’s not your typical sunset kayak trip, this guided tour takes you through the quiet estuary of Weeki Wachee in clear kayaks lit by LED lights, revealing a glimpse into the nocturnal marine life below.

We’re intrigued by the way it delivers an intimate, less crowded encounter with nature and the chance to capture unique photos after dark. The two-hour duration and moderate price point make it accessible, but some travelers should consider the physical requirements and weather dependence. It’s ideal for those seeking a calm, scenic outing with a twist of nighttime wonder and a preference for small-group experiences.

Key Points

• Unique nighttime experience with illuminated clear kayaks
• Less crowded than daytime visits, offering a peaceful paddle
• Flexible scheduling with two evening sessions
• Underwater discovery of nocturnal marine life
• Guide-led experience with safety equipment included
• Good for travelers with moderate physical fitness

What is the Weeki Sunset tour?

The Weeki Sunset tour is a two-hour guided kayaking experience in Florida’s Weeki Wachee area, specifically designed for paddlers who want to enjoy a sunset view with a twist. What sets this tour apart is the use of clear kayaks equipped with LED lights. This design allows you to see beneath the water and into the night, making it more than just a sunset cruise—it’s a glowing voyage into Weeki Wachee’s underwater world.

Offered by Get Up And Go Kayaking – Weeki Wachee, this tour is perfect for those who enjoy peaceful water activities, nature photography, or just a different way to experience the area’s natural beauty.

Why choose a clear kayak adventure?

The clear kayaks are the real highlight. We loved the way they transform a regular paddle into a visual feast, especially after sunset when the LED lights turn on. These lights not only illuminate the water but also attract some of the local nocturnal wildlife, such as fish and perhaps even marine mammals, which you might not see during daytime trips.

One reviewer shared, “We ended up seeing a manatee and dolphins,” which hints at the potential for wildlife encounters beyond just the scenery. The transparency of the kayaks gives you a 360-degree view of the underwater environment, making it feel like you’re floating over an aquarium, only in real life.

The itinerary in detail

1. Meeting at Mary’s Fish Camp

Your adventure begins at Mary’s Fish Camp, a relaxed spot on the estuary. Here, you’ll check in and receive your safety equipment and instructions from your guide. This meeting point is essential because it sets the tone for a peaceful, less crowded experience, typical of smaller group tours (max 10 participants).

2. Paddling through Weeki Wachee and Mud Rivers

As soon as you’re on the water, the guide leads you into the quiet estuary, where the only sounds are the gentle splashing of paddles and the occasional call of night birds. The tour is designed for moderate physical fitness, so expect some paddling but nothing overly strenuous. While the tour does not specify stopping points for sightseeing, the focus is on enjoying the scenery and the experience of the illuminated water.

3. Lighting up the water with LED lights

Once the sun dips below the horizon, the LED lights come on. This is when the magic truly begins. The water glows beneath you in a soft, colorful illumination, making the environment feel otherworldly. You’ll likely want to take photos—many guests do—and the lighting enhances visibility for spotting aquatic creatures.

4. Wildlife encounters and surprises

The tour notes that there may be surprises from wildlife, with reports of seeing manatees and dolphins. The darkness heightens the chance to observe nocturnal marine activity, which is normally hidden during the day. Wearing long sleeves, pants, and bug spray is recommended, as you may encounter insects and need protection from insects and bugs prevalent around marshy areas.

5. Return to Mary’s Fish Camp

The journey ends back at your starting point after approximately two hours on the water. The tour emphasizes a relaxed pace, giving ample time for photos and soaking in the experience.

Pricing and value

At $85 per person, the tour offers good value for a unique, guided experience. It includes use of the clear kayaks, safety equipment, a guide, and all taxes and fees. These are all important considerations: you won’t need to rent gear or worry about additional costs.

While the tour does not include water or gratuities, bringing a non-disposable water bottle is advisable for hydration. The price is justified by the personalized experience, small group size, and the novelty of the glowing water adventure.

What’s the experience like?

Participants consistently rave about the stunning views and the peaceful atmosphere. One reviewer said, “I was quite hesitant to do a water activity solo, but this was by far, one of the coolest things I’ve ever done,” highlighting that even solo travelers can feel comfortable and well taken care of.

The lighting effect transforms an ordinary paddle into a mesmerizing journey into the night. The quiet estuary, combined with glowing waters and possible wildlife sightings, makes it a serene and memorable outing.

While some might find paddling in the dark slightly challenging, the guides are there to help, and the physical effort is manageable for most with moderate fitness. The small-group setting ensures that everyone gets attention and ample opportunity to enjoy the environment.

Practical considerations and tips

• Book well in advance—on average, travelers reserve about 11 days ahead
• The tour runs during two evening sessions, providing flexibility
• Wear long sleeves and pants for insect protection
• Bring bug spray and a non-disposable water bottle
• Children under 3 are not permitted; a 1:1 adult-to-child ratio applies for ages 3-17
• The maximum weight per person is 250 lbs, and the combined weight of paddlers cannot exceed 425 lbs
• Expect small group size (up to 10 travelers), making it more intimate
• The tour is weather-dependent—poor weather cancels or reschedules, with full refunds available

Who will enjoy this experience?

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who appreciate quiet, scenic environments and are curious about marine life. It’s perfect for photographers eager for unique nighttime shots or anyone looking for a peaceful, low-impact activity.

Those with moderate physical fitness will find paddling manageable, but it’s not designed for people with mobility issues. Families with children over 3 can join, provided the safety requirements are met, but the main appeal is the magical glow and wildlife encounters that make this trip special.

The Sum Up

The Weeki Sunset tour offers a genuinely different way to enjoy Florida’s waterways. The illuminated clear kayaks take you on a peaceful journey into the night, revealing the hidden world beneath the water’s surface. It’s a perfect fit for those seeking a calm, memorable adventure that combines natural beauty with a touch of enchantment.

The small-group format, guided expertise, and stunning visuals make it a worthwhile choice for anyone interested in wildlife, photography, or simply experiencing something out of the ordinary. If you’re after a tranquil paddle in an environment where the water glows and surprises await, this tour is worth considering.

While not the cheapest option, the quality and uniqueness of the experience justify the price, especially if you value intimate, authentic encounters with nature that are less about crowds and more about discovery.

FAQ

How long is the Weeki Sunset tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, providing enough time to enjoy the scenery, light displays, and potential wildlife sightings.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the use of clear kayaks, safety equipment, a guide, and all taxes and fees. It does not include water or gratuities.

Do I need any special skills or experience?
A moderate physical fitness level is recommended, but previous kayaking experience isn’t required. The guide will provide instructions, and the small group size enhances safety.

Can children join this tour?
Children over 3 years old are permitted, but a 1:1 adult-to-child ratio is required, and kids must meet safety standards.

What should I wear?
Long sleeves, long pants, and bug spray are advised to protect against insects. Dress comfortably for paddling, and consider bringing a waterproof bag for essentials.

What about weather cancellations?
The tour is weather-dependent. If the weather is poor, the tour will be canceled or rescheduled, with a full refund offered.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, the maximum weight per person is 250 lbs, and the combined weight of paddlers cannot exceed 425 lbs.

Is gratuity included?
No, gratuities are not included but are customary if you feel the guide provided excellent service.

If you’re after a peaceful yet visually striking adventure that combines scenic beauty with underwater surprises, the Weeki Sunset tour offers an experience worth lighting up your evening.