Paddle the Matanzas River from historic Genung’s Fish Camp to watch dolphins and sea turtles in a dynamic tidal lagoon. This two-hour guided kayak tour blends wildlife viewing with local conservation insight and hands-on paddling instruction.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A morning on the Matanzas River begins with the metallic creak of a drawbridge, salt in the air and the hush of mangroves lining a tidal lagoon. Paddlers push off from Genung’s Fish Camp beneath SR 206 and slip into water that alternates between glassy calm and a quick-moving current that seems to test your paddle stroke. Dolphins arc just beyond the channel; sea turtles surface with slow, inevitable patience.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness; core and shoulder endurance helpful for sustained paddling, but routes accommodate beginners with guided support
Wildlife
History
Genung’s Fish Camp has been a local landmark since 1948, and the Matanzas River carries Spanish colonial history — its name recalls a 16th-century clash between explorers and indigenous peoples.
Conservation
Operators emphasize distance from wildlife, reef-safe sunscreen, and avoiding trawling through seagrass; the Matanzas River Keeper advocates for water-quality monitoring and responsible access.
Reserve your spot on the Guided Tour for Dolphin & Sea Turtle Observation in Saint Augustine, Florida today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Watch the tide schedule
Tidal currents can accelerate in the Matanzas River; check local tide charts and ask your guide about best launch times.
Skip flip-flops
Oyster beds and shell-strewn shorelines make closed-toe water shoes a safer choice than bare feet or sandals.
Use mineral-based sunscreen
Reef-safe sunscreen protects your skin and the estuary habitats you’ll be paddling through.
Bring a dry bag and refillable bottle
Guides recommend waterproof storage for electronics and a refillable water bottle you can top up at the bait shop.
Personal flotation device (supplied)
Mandatory for safety; provided by the operator but confirm fit at check-in.
Water shoes or closed-toe sandals
Protect feet from sharp oyster shells when launching and beaching kayaks.
summer
Dry bag (small)
Keeps phone, camera, and layers dry during splashes or unexpected swamping.
Reef-safe sunscreen & sun hat
Protects skin and local marine life during exposed stretches of the paddle.
summer