Paddle through the glowing waters of Banana River in Merritt Island, Florida, and experience the enchanting glow of bioluminescent life beneath the stars. Choose between a stunning sunset or magical late-night tour with Otter Paddle Orlando.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for beginners and casual paddlers; basic balance and light paddling ability recommended.
Wildlife
History
Banana River has been a vital waterway for the indigenous Timucua people and later played a role in Florida’s space launch history near Cape Canaveral.
Conservation
Efforts by local organizations help protect the fragile bioluminescent ecosystems by promoting low-impact paddling and minimizing artificial light pollution.
Otter Paddle Orlando
Paddle through the glowing waters of Banana River in Merritt Island, Florida, and experience the enchanting glow of bioluminescent life beneath the stars. Choose between a stunning sunset or magical late-night tour with Otter Paddle Orlando.
Otter Paddle Orlando operates from Merritt Island, Florida, offering guided paddleboarding and kayaking experiences across Central Florida waterways. The company runs tours at Silver Springs, Rainbow Springs, Winter Park’s Chain of Lakes, Lake Conway, the Silver River, and the Banana River, plus unique evening experiences like bioluminescence and Neon Nights glow paddles.
Tours include family-friendly options, wildlife-focused excursions such as dolphin and manatee paddles, and longer shuttle runs that remove the need to turn back. Silver Springs adventures feature certified guides and a stated commitment to conservation, with opportunities to see manatees and other wildlife. Rainbow Springs tours navigate clear springs and Indian Creek for swimming, cave exploration, and abundant wildlife viewing.
Otter Paddle Orlando also offers flexible day rentals of Crew & Axel inflatable paddleboards with convenient pick-up and drop-off to explore at one’s own pace. Guides provide safety instruction, route briefing, and local knowledge for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
The business emphasizes accessible experiences for families and beginners while delivering specialized night tours to view bioluminescence in the Banana River and LED-lit Neon Nights paddles in Merritt Island. Shore logistics such as shuttles are provided on select runs to simplify outings.
By focusing on natural settings, guided safety, and a variety of trip lengths and times, Otter Paddle Orlando presents a range of paddleboarding and kayaking options for visitors and residents seeking wildlife encounters and scenic paddles in Central Florida. Reservation options, seasonal scheduling, and accessibility details are available when booking specific tours online directly through the operator.
Location
Merritt Island, FL
Gateway to nearby springs and rivers
Tours Offered
11 Trips
From Silver Springs to bioluminescence
Family Friendly
All Ages
Many tours welcome families
Certified Guides
Yes
Guides on select tours like Silver Springs
Book guided tours, neon glow paddles, bioluminescence nights, or flexible day rentals for a memorable Florida waterways experience.
Book Evening Tours Early
Bioluminescence is best seen after dark, so evening tours fill up quickly—reserve your spot well in advance.
Wear Insect Repellent
Merritt Island's waterside environment can attract mosquitoes, especially at dusk and night; bring repellent to stay comfortable.
Use a Headlamp with a Red Filter
A red light preserves your night vision and minimizes disturbance to wildlife during paddling.
Stay Quiet and Calm
To enhance your experience and preserve the environment, keep noise minimal and paddle gently.
Waterproof Headlamp with Red Light
Helps you see in the dark without disturbing wildlife or ruining your night vision.
Insect Repellent
Protects against mosquitoes common near water in spring and summer months.
spring
Lightweight Waterproof Jacket
Keeps you warm and dry in cooler fall evenings and unexpected drizzle.
fall
Non-slip Water Shoes
Provides stability and protection when launching or walking near water.