What is scalloping and how does it work?

Scalloping is the activity of snorkeling in shallow coastal waters to find and collect bay scallops, a sweet, edible shellfish found in Florida’s seagrass beds.

Is prior snorkeling experience required?

No prior experience is necessary; the guides provide instruction on snorkeling and scalloping techniques before the trip.

Are children allowed on scalloping tours?

Yes, families with children are welcome as long as the children are comfortable swimming and follow safety guidelines.

What gear is provided and what should I bring?

All snorkeling gear, scalloping bags, and necessary licenses are provided. Guests should bring sunscreen, water, hats, and towels.

When is the best time of year for scalloping in Florida?

Summer months, especially June through August, are peak scalloping season with the highest bay scallop populations.

Are the scallops we collect safe to eat?

Yes, bay scallops are a popular local delicacy, and participants are guided on sustainable harvesting to ensure safety and ecological balance.

Scalloping Adventure with Along The Banks in Florida | Guided Tour | Fishing

Along the sun-dappled shores of Homosassa, Florida, a unique adventure awaits beneath the calm Gulf waters—scalloping with Along The Banks Manatee Kayak Adventure Tours. This immersive trip offers more than a simple aquatic outing; it’s a hands-on encounter with one of Florida’s prized seafood treasures: bay scallops. Launching from Homosassa, guests are guided by seasoned local captains who navigate the pristine, clear waters to carefully selected scalloping grounds.

The Gulf Coast near Homosassa is renowned for its shimmering aquatic vegetation beds and shallow seagrass flats, environments where bay scallops thrive. These thick beds support a diverse marine ecosystem, including playful manatees and vibrant fish species, creating a vivid underwater stage. The trip doubles as a marine immersion and a sustainable harvest experience. Participants snorkel among the seagrass, learning precise techniques to spot the distinctive, translucent bay scallop shells and gently collect them without disturbing the habitat.

Beyond the thrill of the harvest, this excursion serves as an intimate introduction to Florida’s coastal ecology. Along The Banks Manatee Kayak Adventure Tours emphasizes safety and environmental awareness, providing all snorkeling gear and scalloping equipment, plus comprehensive briefings on local regulations and conservation best practices. This attention to responsible recreation helps preserve the fragile Gulf ecosystem for future generations.

For families, seafood enthusiasts, and adventurers alike, this day trip blends physical activity, nature appreciation, and the satisfaction of gathering your own fresh scallops. After a scenic boat ride along Florida’s coast, guests return with stories of underwater discoveries and a cooler full of fresh scallops ready for culinary enjoyment. Situated just minutes from Homosassa’s welcoming community, Along The Banks offers one of the most authentic ways to connect with Florida’s marine treasures, making it a standout choice on the Gulf Coast’s outdoor adventure map.

About Along The Banks Manatee Kayak Adventure Tours

Along The Banks Manatee Kayak Adventure Tours is a Homosassa, Florida-based outfitter specializing in guided paddling and small-group water experiences focused on manatee viewing and coastal wildlife. The company offers a selection of public and private trips, including the Chassahowizka Exploration Kayak Tour, Manatee Kayak Encounter, Scalloping in Florida, and the Pontoon Homosassa River Run. Each trip emphasizes safe, low-impact wildlife encounters, expert local guidance, and an immersive Florida outdoors experience.

Guides lead three-hour kayak and pontoon excursions through crystal-clear springs, winding rivers, and Gulf passages to increase the likelihood of observing West Indian manatees, dolphins, great blue herons, river turtles, and other native species. The scalloping experience takes guests into Gulf waters to locate and harvest bay scallops under local regulations. Safety briefings, provided equipment, and route planning tailored to conditions are standard practice to protect guests and habitat.

Based in Homosassa, a recognized area for manatee activity, the outfitter works within state guidelines and local conservation best practices to minimize disturbance to wildlife while maximizing viewing opportunities. Families, photographers, and nature-focused visitors choose these tours for expert-led interpretation, accessible launch points, and the chance to explore coastal springs and estuaries without large crowds. With clearly described itineraries and knowledgeable guides familiar with local waterways, Along The Banks Manatee Kayak Adventure Tours positions itself as a reliable option for authentic wildlife encounters in Florida’s Nature Coast.

Booking details, pricing, seasonal availability, and equipment information are listed on the company's website and can be confirmed at the Homosassa launch directly.

Scalloping Adventure with Along The Banks in Florida

Adventure Brief

Keep the Adventure Going

Trip Details from the Operator

Frequently Asked Questions

Key Highlights

Local Insights

Related Adventures & Guides

Operated By

About Along The Banks Manatee Kayak Adventure Tours

Reserve a Manatee Kayak or Pontoon Tour in Homosassa

Adventure Tips

Recommended Gear