Kayak or Paddleboard the Famous Mangrove Tunnels

4.9
(66 reviews)
Sarasota, USA

2 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

True mangrove tunnel focus: the tunnels are the highlight of this tour (not a long beach stop)

Launch location is hard to beat: Ted Sperling Park on Lido Key, close to Lido Beach, St. Armands Circle, and Downtown Sarasota

Sandbar stop: a quick break to stretch your legs and enjoy the views
Wildlife-rich route: birds, fish, mangrove crabs, and the chance to spot dolphins/manatees (seasonal and conditions permitting)

Choose kayak or paddleboard: mixing kayaks and paddleboards in the same group is welcome

Small-group feel + local guides: relaxed pace, beginner-friendly instruction, and a safety-first approach

What's Included

Paddles
Safety Equipment (Life Jackets, Leashes)
Kayak (Single or Tandem) or Stand Up Paddleboard
Gratuities

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
190 Taft Dr

Once you enter the park, you will see kayak companies on the left hand side. We will be the last two trailers, directly across from the restroom building. You will be looking for SURFIT USA.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What to expect

Paddle into one of Sarasota’s most beautiful hidden ecosystems on a guided kayak or paddleboard tour through the Lido Key mangrove tunnels. Only about 1/2 mile from Lido Beach and minutes from St. Armands Circle and Downtown Sarasota—this experience is easy to get to, but feels a world away once you slip under the mangrove canopy.

This tour is designed around the winding tunnels: shaded corridors, gentle turns, and lots of chances to spot the smaller details that make the mangroves so alive—mangrove crabs, fish, and shorebirds—plus the possibility of seeing dolphins or manatees during many months of the year. Depending on conditions, your guide may also paddle into more open water to look for wildlife.

You’ll also stop briefly at a sandbar to stretch your legs, take photos, and soak in the scenery before continuing the paddle. The pace is relaxed and beginner-friendly, with patient instruction and a safety-first approach from start to finish.

Choosing between our tours: This is our tunnel-focused tour. If your “must-do” is a longer beach stop with shelling at Midnight Pass Beach, that’s our Mangrove + Hidden Beach Tour, which launches from Turtle Beach on Siesta Key.

Additional info

  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by SURFit USA

Tags

Stand Up Paddleboarding
Kayaking Tours
On the Water
Excellent Quality
Involves Animals

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

4.9 Based on 66 66 reviews
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