Adventure Collective
null - Tampa

St. Petersburg - Guided Kayak Tour of Beautiful Shell Key

Lakelandeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels, including beginners; some paddling required

Overview

Discover the beauty of Shell Key with a guided kayak tour from Lakeland, Florida. Paddle through scenic waters, encounter wildlife, and enjoy a peaceful day on the coast. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike!

Lakeland, Florida

St. Petersburg - Guided Kayak Tour of Beautiful Shell Key

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About This Adventure

Rate

Person - $39


Duration

3 hrs


About

(Please contact us for more availability or larger groups thank you!)

Our guided kayak tour of beautiful Shell Key Preserve (incl beach walk 🙂 ) begins at the public launch area just north of the bridge to Fort De Soto Park. The preserve contains an abundance of wild life and is mostly a beautiful, calm paddle.

My team and I will meet everyone here, do introductions, hand out waterproof bags, and then get everyone prepped for kayaking (lifejackets are provided, but not required for guests over 16). No experience needed as we’ll give everyone a little paddling overview/refresher! We use primarily tandem kayaks for ease and comfort. (Your booking time is the planned arrival time).

After that we’ll head out onto the water & into the Preserve! The Preserve is a beautiful shallow environment with plenty of wildlife & a very interesting ecosystem! We’ll discuss both the ecosystem and history of the Preserve.

From the shallow seagrass flats to the large mangrove islands to the pristine beaches of Shell Key itself we’ll try and cover it all! Including traveling through some mangrove tunnels (with friendly tides, primarily March-October) We’ll also look for and talk about some of our incredible wildlife in the Preserve including dolphins, manatees, & other various fish & bird life!

From our kayaks we’ll be able to see a few different St. Pete landmarks & we’ll discuss their history as well as some recommendations for places to eat & things to do while you’re here! If you enjoy your tour please consider tipping your guide thank you!

Adventure Tips

Wear a Wide-Brim Hat and Sunscreen

Protect yourself from sun exposure during the kayak tour, especially since you'll be out on the water for several hours.

Bring Water and Snacks

Stay hydrated and energized to make the most of your kayaking experience in the Florida sun.

Check Weather Conditions Before Booking

Ensure favorable weather for a safe and enjoyable trip, as conditions can change quickly along the coast.

Arrive Early for Check-In

Allow for time to get fitted with gear and receive a safety briefing before the tour starts.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Bottle-nosed dolphins
  • Great blue herons

History

Shell Key was once used by Native Americans and early settlers for shell harvesting, leaving behind remnants found on the island today.

Conservation

Liberty Outdoors emphasizes eco-friendly practices, ensuring minimal impact on Shell Key's delicate ecosystem and promoting sustainable tourism.

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Adventure Hotspots in Tampa

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Personal Flotation Device (PFD)

Essential

A life jacket is required for safety and must be worn at all times during the tour.

Waterproof Camera or Smartphone

Capture the stunning scenery and wildlife during your kayaking adventure.

Sun Protective Clothing

Light, long-sleeved shirts or rash guards help protect against sunburn.

summer specific

Hat and Sunglasses

Shield your eyes and face from the sun for added comfort on the water.