Discover Florida’s incredible marine wildlife on a guided kayak or paddleboard tour in Mims. Get up close with playful dolphins and gentle manatees while exploring scenic wildlife refuges. An adventure perfect for nature lovers seeking an authentic outdoor experience.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; paddlers should have basic mobility and comfort on the water.
Wildlife
History
The Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, close to Mims, has played a vital role in conservation since its establishment in 1963, protecting a vital habitat for Florida’s diverse species.
Conservation
This area is actively managed to preserve habitat and support local wildlife populations, with sustainable paddling practices encouraged to minimize environmental impact.
Cocoa Kayaking
Discover Florida’s incredible marine wildlife on a guided kayak or paddleboard tour in Mims. Get up close with playful dolphins and gentle manatees while exploring scenic wildlife refuges. An adventure perfect for nature lovers seeking an authentic outdoor experience.
Cocoa Kayaking is a water-adventure outfitter operating in Cocoa Beach, Florida, that offers a variety of kayak and paddleboard experiences on the Indian River Lagoon and nearby waterways. The company provides both self-guided kayak and paddleboard rentals launching from Merritt Island and curated guided tours designed to showcase local wildlife, including bottlenose dolphins, West Indian manatees, and numerous coastal bird species.
Tour options include self-guided rentals, eco-focused clean-up rentals, guided Thousand Islands mangrove tunnel excursions, pedal-kayak manatee and dolphin sunset tours, and multiple bioluminescent kayak and paddleboard experiences. Some guided tours use clear-bottom hybrid sit-on-top kayaks for enhanced viewing of the water, and bioluminescent paddles are recommended around the new moon for optimal glow. The Thousand Islands tour description notes the use of brand new equipment and expert guides for that specific route, and the pedal kayak tour includes free photo capture as part of the experience.
Cocoa Kayaking emphasizes wildlife-focused paddling, accessibility for a range of skill levels, and environmentally conscious offerings such as clean-up rental options. Information about launch locations, tour lengths, and special equipment is provided with each tour listing. All descriptions and offerings reference paddling on the Indian River Lagoon, Merritt Island access points, Manatee Cove Park, Thousand Islands mangrove tunnels, and bioluminescent waterways near Cocoa Beach.
Launch Site
Merritt Island
Launches from local access points
Tours Offered
6 Tours
Self-guided and guided options
Wildlife Seen
Dolphins & Manatees
Common in tour descriptions
Equipment
Brand-new gear
New equipment available on tours
Reserve self-guided rentals or guided tours on the Indian River Lagoon — limited spots for bioluminescent nights and sunset paddle tours.
Wear Quick-Drying Clothing
Opt for lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing to stay comfortable during water activities.
Bring Sun Protection
Use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to shield yourself from the strong Florida sun.
Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water to maintain hydration throughout the tour.
Respect Wildlife Distance
Maintain a safe distance from all wildlife to avoid disturbing their natural behavior.
Waterproof Sunscreen
Protect your skin from UV rays during sunny outdoor water excursions.
Sun Hat or Cap
Provide shade and protect your face from sun exposure.
Sunglasses with UV Protection
Shield your eyes from glare and harmful rays.
Dry Bag or Waterproof Case
Keep your valuables and electronics safe from water.