Explore Pelican Island & Indian River Lagoon with Guided Nature Tours

Environmental Learning Center: Pelican Island Tours, Kayak Rentals, and SUP Yoga

Discover wildlife tours and outdoor activities

The Environmental Learning Center offers guided nature tours and outdoor recreation focused on Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge, the Indian River Lagoon, and Sebastian Inlet. Popular experiences include the Pelican Island Pontoon Tour and the Sunset Pelican Island Pontoon Tour, both providing small-group wildlife viewing and scenic boat-based access to protected bird habitat. The Feathers & Fins Sebastian Inlet Tour highlights diverse bird species and marine life along the inlet.

Paddle sports and rentals

For active exploration, the center provides kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals for self-guided trips through mangroves and open water. Guided kayak excursions let participants explore back-water creeks, mangrove trails, and nearby impoundment roads with a knowledgeable leader. Seasonal offerings include Full Moon Guided Kayak Excursions for night paddling and Family Fishing Fun Day events.

Wellness and creative programming

Wellness classes such as SUP Yoga, chair yoga, and traditional yoga connect movement to the outdoors. SUP Yoga is a yin-based paddleboard session that emphasizes gentle movement on the water — pre-registration is required. Creative opportunities like the Nature’s Palette Workshop provide a three-hour guided experience in ephemeral art and nature-based mindfulness.

Family and youth programs

Early childhood programming includes Little Wonders, a nature enrichment and early literacy program for children aged 18 months to 4 years accompanied by a caregiver. Holiday camps and special events (for example, Wild Lagoon Holiday Break Camp with pontoon included) offer family-friendly outdoor learning and recreation.

What to expect on tours and classes

• Small groups: Tours often operate in intimate group sizes to maximize wildlife viewing and guide attention.
• Bring essentials: Pontoon tours recommend guests bring binoculars, snacks, and personal refreshments when allowed.
• Duration: Many signature tours run about two hours (Pelican Island pontoon tours, guided kayak excursions); select tours last longer (Feathers & Fins Sebastian Inlet Tour is approximately 2.5 hours; workshops can be three hours).
• Age guidelines: Programs span a wide age range — Little Wonders is for toddlers through preschoolers, and guided paddles commonly welcome participants aged 8 and up.

Why choose these experiences

The Environmental Learning Center focuses on place-based education and outdoor recreation that highlights the ecology of Pelican Island, the Indian River Lagoon, and Sebastian Inlet. Whether booking a pontoon wildlife tour, renting a kayak or SUP, joining a guided paddle, or attending a nature workshop, visitors engage directly with coastal habitats, birdwatching opportunities, and hands-on learning in small-group settings.

Booking and preparation

Reservations and pre-registration are encouraged for SUP Yoga, many wellness classes, and popular tours. Guests should check trip-specific notes for capacity (for example, some sunset pontoon tours accommodate up to 16 guests) and bring appropriate sun protection, water, and any recommended gear such as binoculars. For group or special-event inquiries (Sea Oaks residents offerings, artist talks, demonstrations, and guest-led programs), consult the Environmental Learning Center’s schedule and event details.

Experience guided wildlife tours, paddle sports, family programs, and nature-based workshops that showcase Pelican Island, Indian River Lagoon, and Sebastian Inlet habitats — all delivered through small-group, educational, and recreation-focused outings.