Paddle through Cocoa Beach’s mangrove tunnels and moonlit waters with Cocoa Kayaking. Discover manatees, bioluminescent jellies, and dolphins up close on uniquely crafted kayak and paddleboard tours.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–3 hours
Fitness Level
Basic fitness suitable for beginners; moderate paddling required especially when navigating mangrove tunnels or against currents.
Wildlife
History
The Indian River Lagoon is part of one of the most diverse estuarine ecosystems in North America, sustained for generations by indigenous peoples and early settlers.
Conservation
Cocoa Kayaking emphasizes eco-friendly tours that minimize disturbance to sensitive wildlife habitats and actively promotes waterway clean-up initiatives.
Cocoa Kayaking
Paddle through Cocoa Beach’s mangrove tunnels and moonlit waters with Cocoa Kayaking. Discover manatees, bioluminescent jellies, and dolphins up close on uniquely crafted kayak and paddleboard tours.
Cocoa Kayaking is a water-adventure outfitter operating in Cocoa Beach, Florida, that offers a variety of kayak and paddleboard experiences on the Indian River Lagoon and nearby waterways. The company provides both self-guided kayak and paddleboard rentals launching from Merritt Island and curated guided tours designed to showcase local wildlife, including bottlenose dolphins, West Indian manatees, and numerous coastal bird species.
Tour options include self-guided rentals, eco-focused clean-up rentals, guided Thousand Islands mangrove tunnel excursions, pedal-kayak manatee and dolphin sunset tours, and multiple bioluminescent kayak and paddleboard experiences. Some guided tours use clear-bottom hybrid sit-on-top kayaks for enhanced viewing of the water, and bioluminescent paddles are recommended around the new moon for optimal glow. The Thousand Islands tour description notes the use of brand new equipment and expert guides for that specific route, and the pedal kayak tour includes free photo capture as part of the experience.
Cocoa Kayaking emphasizes wildlife-focused paddling, accessibility for a range of skill levels, and environmentally conscious offerings such as clean-up rental options. Information about launch locations, tour lengths, and special equipment is provided with each tour listing. All descriptions and offerings reference paddling on the Indian River Lagoon, Merritt Island access points, Manatee Cove Park, Thousand Islands mangrove tunnels, and bioluminescent waterways near Cocoa Beach.
Launch Site
Merritt Island
Launches from local access points
Tours Offered
6 Tours
Self-guided and guided options
Wildlife Seen
Dolphins & Manatees
Common in tour descriptions
Equipment
Brand-new gear
New equipment available on tours
Reserve self-guided rentals or guided tours on the Indian River Lagoon — limited spots for bioluminescent nights and sunset paddle tours.
Bring Water and Sun Protection
Paddling under Florida’s sun can be intense; pack water, sunscreen, and a hat to stay comfortable.
Book Sunset or Night Tours for Wildlife Viewing
Manatees and bioluminescent jellies are most active in low light; plan accordingly for the best sightings.
Wear Secure Footwear
Mangrove roots and launch spots can be slippery—wear water shoes or sandals with grip.
Follow Guide Instructions
Local guides know the fragile ecosystems and best paddling routes—please respect their directions to protect wildlife.
Water Shoes
Protect your feet from sharp mangrove roots and slippery rocks at launch sites.
summer
Dry Bag
Keep your phone, camera, and valuables safe and dry during paddling trips.
Headlamp or LED Light
For night or bioluminescence tours, supplemental lighting helps with navigation and safety.
summer
Sunscreen
Florida sun is strong on the water; broad-spectrum protection is critical.