Paddling Through Paradise: Manatees and Mangrove Tunnels in Naples, Florida
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Basic paddling fitness required; ability to maneuver a kayak or paddleboard through narrow waterways is helpful.
Overview
Explore the serene mangrove tunnels of Naples, Florida, and encounter gentle manatees in their natural habitat. This guided paddle tour offers a unique way to experience one of Southwest Florida’s most vital coastal ecosystems.
Manatees and Mangrove Tunnels
Most Popular! • 3 Hours • Ages 6+
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
All photos above are from this tour!
Duration
3 Hours
Restrictions
Great for most ages and abilities 6 & Up
About
Our Manatees and Mangrove Tunnels Tour is by far our top-rated tour. Hands down, there is no other kayak route or company in Naples and Marco Island that offers a better opportunity to spot such a variety of wildlife. Manatees and Mangroves are not even half of what this tour offers. Guests will visit numerous ecosystems, including the Salt marsh, a heavily visited feeding ground for Wood storks, White Ibis, Tricolored Herons, and the super rare Rosette Spoonbill. As kayakers venture deeper into the 10,000 Islands Wildlife Refuge, they will encounter the most extensive and complete Mangrove tunnels this county has to offer. Did we mention we are the only company kayaking this route?
Why, you ask?
It's simple, we are a small owner-operated company. We value quality over quantity, and we employ the most professional, year-round guides available. This route takes more planning and can only handle a limited amount of guests. There is no turn and burn here, which means fewer people, more wildlife.
What's included
- Kayaks
- Paddles
- Life Jackets
- Dry Bags
- Year-round, professional guide
What Makes this Tour Unique?
- This tour will launch and end at a separate location. Guests will meet us at our Main office located inside the Port of the Islands Everglades Resort; from there, we will shuttle you to the launch site. We then paddle from the launch site back to the marina and hotel where you left your car.
- 8 guests max, That's 4 less than the competition
- More Wildlife than the competition, period
- Year-round professional guides. No interns or seasonal workers here
- 1% of Total Sales are donated to the Everglades Foundation to help protect the waters we explore.
Protect our public lands while on vacation!
Adventure Tips
Keep noise to a minimum
Manatees and other wildlife are sensitive to sound, so maintain a quiet paddle to avoid disturbing them.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Protect fragile marine life by applying eco-friendly sunscreen before launching your kayak or paddleboard.
Wear a personal flotation device
Safety first—wear a PFD at all times while on the water, even if you’re an experienced paddler.
Bring water-resistant camera gear
Capture incredible wildlife shots without risking damage to your electronics.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- West Indian manatee
- Brown pelican
History
These mangrove ecosystems have long been essential nursery grounds for Florida’s fish populations and were once vital to the Calusa people for fishing and shelter.
Conservation
The tour promotes low-impact paddling and educates visitors on preserving mangroves and protecting manatee habitats from boat traffic and pollution.
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Adventure Hotspots in Naples
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Lightweight paddling gloves
Protects your hands during longer paddles and prevents blisters.
summer specific
Quick-dry clothing
Keeps you comfortable as you stay dry and cool in the Florida heat.
summer specific
Water bottle
Staying hydrated during the trip is essential due to warm conditions.
Polarized sunglasses
Reduces glare and helps you see underwater wildlife clearly.
summer specific