Ready for a high-energy paddle and ride adventure in Marathon, Florida? The Lagoon’s Guided Downwinder offers a thrilling 3-hour shuttle experience perfect for advanced paddle boarders and wind riders.
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Difficulty
expert
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in strong physical condition with experience in paddling or wind sports over open water.
Wildlife
History
Marathon developed as a key naval and fishing hub in Florida Keys history, with rich ties to maritime culture.
Conservation
Local efforts focus on reef protection and reducing plastic waste to preserve the fragile Florida Keys ecosystem.
The Lagoon
Ready for a high-energy paddle and ride adventure in Marathon, Florida? The Lagoon’s Guided Downwinder offers a thrilling 3-hour shuttle experience perfect for advanced paddle boarders and wind riders.
The Lagoon in Marathon, Florida, is a watersports center offering a broad selection of lessons, rentals, and guided experiences across the Florida Keys. It provides cable wakeboarding with unique 2-point cable systems, kiteboarding and kite-flying courses, wingboarding, E-Foiling lessons, basic sailing instruction, and stand-up paddle activities including guided downwinders. The site also hosts a large floating aqua park, Rhum Runner at The Lagoon on Grassy Key, featuring floating trampolines and climbing walls for family-friendly fun.
Instruction spans beginner to advanced levels with options for private one-on-one lessons, goal-oriented advanced coaching, and combined classroom and on-water sessions. Specific programs include beginner cable reservations that mimic the feel of boat-towed wakeboarding, intro and advanced kite lessons with ground school, and tailored advanced cable reservations that allow riders to use larger features such as XL kickers and rails. Guided downwinders target experienced paddlers and kiteboarders and run with a small-group limit and shuttle service.
Safety and skill progression are emphasized through structured ground school, self-rescue techniques, and controlled practice sessions. Scheduling depends on weather for many offerings, and several experiences combine shore-side instruction with water time. Courses teach kite setup, control, board starts, upwind riding, power strokes, and self-rescue to promote safe progression on the water. Private and group bookings are available for families, solo travelers, and experienced athletes looking for targeted sessions. Advance reservations are recommended.
Location
Marathon, Florida
Located in the Florida Keys
Tours Offered
10 experiences
Lessons, rentals and guided trips
Featured Attraction
Rhum Runner
Floating playground on Grassy Key
Instruction Options
Private & Group
Beginner to advanced lessons
Reserve private cable sessions, lessons, or Rhum Runner access for a memorable day on the water — check availability and weather-dependent schedules.
Book in advance
This exclusive shuttle has a five-person limit and fills up quickly, so secure your spot early.
Check wind and tide conditions
Optimal winds and tides are key for a smooth downwinder; always review local forecasts before heading out.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
The Florida Keys ecosystem is fragile; use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life.
Stay hydrated
Bring water or electrolyte drinks to stay refreshed during the paddle and after the ride.
Personal paddle board or kiteboard
Bring your own advanced board to maximize performance and comfort on the downwinder.
Life jacket or PFD
Safety first—wear a life jacket suited for paddle and wind sports.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protect your skin and the fragile marine ecosystem with environmentally friendly sunscreen.
summer
Hydration pack or water bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the physically demanding adventure under the Florida sun.
summer