Discover the calm waters of Estero Bay with Paddle Naples’s guided eco paddleboard tour. Perfect for all skill levels, this adventure offers wildlife sightings and a peaceful connection to Florida’s coastal environment. Read on to see what makes this experience stand out.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; no prior paddling experience needed
Wildlife
History
Estero Bay has long been a vital habitat for Florida’s coastal wildlife and was historically a key area for local fishing and trade.
Conservation
Paddle Naples emphasizes eco-friendly practices, ensuring minimal disturbance to wildlife and habitats, contributing to area preservation efforts.
Paddle Naples
Discover the calm waters of Estero Bay with Paddle Naples’s guided eco paddleboard tour. Perfect for all skill levels, this adventure offers wildlife sightings and a peaceful connection to Florida’s coastal environment. Read on to see what makes this experience stand out.
Paddle Naples is a Bonita Springs water sports outfitter specializing in guided eco tours and rentals on Estero Bay and Big Hickory Island. It offers clear kayaks, tandem kayaks, single and tandem kayak rentals, paddleboards, and Hobie pedal-drive craft for fishing or leisure. Tours include guided eco experiences—both paddleboard and kayak options—ranging from one-hour excursions to 2.5-hour clear paddleboard trips, plus sunset and glow-light clear kayak outings. Trips launch from Big Hickory Island and explore mangrove estuaries, inlets, and barrier islands where guests commonly see dolphins, manatees, pelicans, and diverse shorebirds.
Paddle Naples provides beginner-friendly lessons, complimentary photos on guided tours, safety gear such as life vests and dry boxes, and alternatives like pedal kayaks for paddlers seeking less upper-body effort. Rentals include hourly and multi-hour options; guided tours focus on ecology, wildlife viewing, and relaxed beach exploration. The business serves families, first-time paddlers, and experienced paddlers seeking clear-hull visibility or a self-guided outing. Paddle Naples emphasizes local knowledge of Southwest Florida waterways, small-group guided experiences, and on-water instruction to build confidence. Equipment is maintained for safety and visibility, and staff provide orientation before departures. Reservations are available for specific trip types, and shore access locations include Big Hickory Island and nearby Bonita Springs launch points.
Customers can choose guided or self-guided options with clear-hull gear, lessons, and safety briefings tailored to skill level and trip length.
Launch Location
Big Hickory Island
Estero Bay launch point
Tours Offered
14 experiences
Guided tours and rentals
Trip Lengths
1–2.5 hours
Short to extended outings
Beginner Friendly
Lessons Included
On-water guidance for all
Book clear kayaks, paddleboards, Hobie pedal drives, or guided eco tours from Big Hickory Island — limited spots for sunset and guided excursions.
Wear Sun Protection
Apply waterproof sunscreen and wear a hat to stay protected during sunny hours.
Bring Water and Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized for the duration of the trip with light snacks and water.
Check Weather Conditions
Monitor the weather forecast to avoid storms or strong winds that can impact safety.
Arrive Early
Get ready and take in the surroundings before the tour starts for a relaxed experience.
Sun Hat
Protects your face and neck from direct sunlight during paddle time.
summer
Sunscreen
Helps prevent sunburn during extended outdoor exposure.
spring, summer, fall, winter
Water Shoes or Sandals
Provides protection for your feet when launching or in case of shallow waters.
summer
Light Waterproof Jacket
Prepares you for sudden rain or wind gusts during your paddle.
spring, fall