Longboat Pass Kayak & Paddleboard Rentals in Florida
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for beginner to moderately fit individuals; light paddling with breaks along the way.
Overview
Explore crystal-clear waters and spot playful dolphins with Longboat Pass Rentals in Florida. Paddleboard or kayak your way to adventure, then enjoy a waterfront meal at Mar Vista Restaurant.
Longboat Pass Rentals
Half-day (4 hrs) | Fully outfitted | Map and lesson included
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a half-day kayaking or paddleboarding adventure in the stunning waters of Longboat Pass. Encounter playful dolphins and manatees, and enjoy a delightful stop at Mar Vista Restaurant. With options for solo or tandem paddling, create unforgettable memories on a beautiful white sand beach.
Find your happy place!
Location: Longboat Pass (Whitney Beach) 522 Cedar Street, Longboat Key
Rates: Single Kayak: $45 Tandem Kayak: $65 Fishing Kayak: $65 Paddleboard: $55
Duration: Half-day (4 hrs)
About this adventure: Rent your kayak or paddleboard for a half-day (4 hrs) and explore the crystal clear waters of Longboat Pass (the area between Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key). Adjacent to the historic Longbeach Village at the northern tip of Longboat Key, this location is renowned for its playful dolphin and manatee activity. A very short paddle will take you to Mar Vista Restaurant - a diner's paradise where you can pull your kayak onto a white sand beach and enjoy a fantastic waterfront lunch or drink. Keep paddling and you'll reach your happy place - a unique white sand beach on the Gulf with endless opportunities to make some beautiful lifelong memories.
All rentals include a paddle, life vest, and a map of the popular paddling routes in the area.
Tip: Single kayaks offer more independence, where each person can really learn how to move their own kayak around. Single kayaks are best for individuals who are at least 12 years old. Tandem kayaks offer more of a team adventure, where the two people have to work together to move (a bonding experience). Inexperienced paddlers can opt to paddle a tandem kayak with a more experienced paddler. Whichever you decide, we will have you feeling very comfortable out on the water - we are well trained and have newbies out with us all the time!
What's Included:
- All paddling equipment
- Map of paddling routes
- Dry storage for personal items
- Basic paddling lesson
Remember to bring:
- Water (and snacks if you'd like)
- Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat)
- Prepare as if you're going to the beach and we'll take care of the rest!
Adventure Tips
Check Tides Before You Paddle
Tide changes can impact water depth and currents; plan your trip during slack tide for easier paddling.
Wear Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect your skin while preserving the local marine ecosystem by using eco-friendly sunscreen.
Bring a Waterproof Bag
Keep your valuables dry by storing them in a waterproof bag during your trip.
Keep Distance from Wildlife
Observe dolphins and manatees from a respectful distance to avoid disturbing them.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bottlenose dolphins
- West Indian manatees
History
Longboat Pass has long served as a natural waterway used by indigenous peoples and later by fishermen navigating the Gulf Coast.
Conservation
Efforts are in place to protect local marine life and seagrass beds, encouraging eco-friendly paddling and limited disturbance to wildlife.
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Adventure Hotspots in Sarasota
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof Phone Case
Protects your phone from splashes and accidental drops while on the water.
Lightweight Rash Guard
Provides sun protection and keeps you cool during sunny summer paddles.
summer specific
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during your adventure with an eco-friendly water bottle.
Water Shoes
Helpful for walking on rocky shorelines and protecting feet during beach breaks.