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Offered languages
- English
Happy Paddler is the only kayak outfitter with private launch access to the beautiful waters between Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key, avoiding crowded public boat ramps. This gives you a relaxing start to the adventure and more time to enjoy any wildlife you encounter.
Happy Paddler always limits tours to groups of 12 or less, allowing you to enjoy more time to explore and much better opportunities for manatee and dolphin encounters. Larger groups can be accommodated.
Our expert naturalist guides will lead you through shallow coastal waters, mangrove shorelines and islands while looking for manatees, dolphins, rays, sea turtles and coastal birds. Wildlife sightings vary, but opportunities are outstanding year-round and our guides know exactly where to look.
This excursion is perfect for families, couples, groups, and individuals with any level of paddling experience.
For visitors to Anna Maria Island or Longboat Key looking for the best wildlife adventure, this is it!
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
You can meet us at 522 Cedar Street in the Whitney Beach Plaza, which is located at the north end of Longboat Key. Look for our Happy Paddler Kayak shop in the rear corner of the plaza. Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/oLLCX6vbA4T4tXZd7
What to expect
After a quick paddling lesson and safety briefing, we’ll set out on the calm waters of Bishop’s Bayou, paddling through historic Longbeach Village and past beautiful waterfront homes while watching for wildlife.
We'll make our way into Sarasota Bay and the spectacular clear waters between Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key. This special area is a major wildlife gathering spot where manatees, dolphins, and other marine animals regularly move between the Gulf of Mexico and Sarasota Bay. Along the way, we’ll have several beautiful spots to get out and stretch our legs. After soaking up the "coastal life," we'll paddle back to rinse and refresh after an awesome adventure!
Solo guest or odd-numbered group? We’ll provide single kayaks as needed. Once booked, just use the Viator message center to let us know how many single vs. tandem boats your group prefers. Please call with any questions or special requests.
Additional info
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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