Adventure Brief
Discover the thrill of paddling amidst dolphins and manatees at Manatee Cove with Calypso Kayaking. Rent gear and set out for a day of wildlife sightings and island shells.
1 hour
easy
Family Friendly
No Experience Required
Discover the thrill of paddling amidst dolphins and manatees at Manatee Cove with Calypso Kayaking. Rent gear and set out for a day of wildlife sightings and island shells.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; basic mobility needed
Wildlife
History
Manatee Cove has been a key habitat for marine life conservation efforts since the early 2000s.
Conservation
Calypso Kayaking emphasizes eco-friendly practices by following wildlife guidelines and using minimal-impact gear.
Calypso Kayaking
Discover the thrill of paddling amidst dolphins and manatees at Manatee Cove with Calypso Kayaking. Rent gear and set out for a day of wildlife sightings and island shells.
Calypso Kayaking is a Merritt Island, Florida outfitter offering guided kayak and paddleboard experiences on the Indian River Lagoon and surrounding waterways. The company specializes in a mix of guided wildlife tours, night bioluminescence paddles, equipment rentals, and private boat excursions that showcase the Space Coast ecosystem.
Tours include plankton and comb jellyfish bioluminescence paddles in clear kayaks, manatee and dolphin encounter tours, sunset-to-bioluminescent combo trips, and a private four-hour boat tour through mangrove tunnels and scenic shoreline.
Calypso Kayaking operates rentals at Manatee Cove Park with one-hour, two-hour, and full-day options for kayaks and paddleboards. Rentals allow guests to explore islands, search for shells, and watch for Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and endangered manatees in their natural habitat.
Guided experiences are led by professional local guides who focus on safety, wildlife observation, and responsible paddling practices. Night tours emphasize low-impact viewing of bioluminescent plankton and comb jellyfish while using clear kayaks to increase visibility below the waterline.
The private boat tour offers a seated alternative for groups who prefer a powered vessel to access the same rivers, mangroves, and coastal views, with opportunities to observe wildlife and sunsets. Calypso Kayaking markets its variety of tours and rentals to visitors near Orlando, Cocoa Beach, and the broader Space Coast seeking memorable, nature-based experiences on Florida’s Indian River system.
Schedules include daytime, sunset, and night departures; rentals offer flexible start times. Safety briefings, life jackets, and basic paddling instruction are supplied to every guest prior to departure and during check-in routinely on site.
Location
Merritt Island, FL
Space Coast, Indian River Lagoon
Guided Tours
Available
Professional local guides
Tour Types
8 offerings
Bioluminescence, rentals, boat tours
Wildlife Encounters
Dolphins & Manatees
Observed in natural habitat
Reserve a guided bioluminescence paddle, manatee and dolphin encounter, rental, or private boat tour to experience Florida’s Indian River Lagoon.
Paddle early in the morning
Early mornings offer calmer waters and better wildlife viewing opportunities.
Wear sun protection
Apply sunscreen and wear hats to withstand Florida's strong midday sun during trips.
Stay hydrated
Bring plenty of water especially on hot days to avoid dehydration.
Respect wildlife distances
Keep a respectful distance from dolphins and manatees for their safety and comfort.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from strong sun exposure during water activities.
summer
Water shoes
Good grip and protection for your feet when launching or landing.
spring-fall
Hat and sunglasses
Shield your eyes and face from sun glare.
summer
Water bottle
Stay hydrated while paddling.
spring-summer