Miami’s waterways are more than just a pretty backdrop—this city is a paddler’s paradise. With its calm mangrove canals, vibrant wildlife, and sparkling city skyline, Miami offers a variety of unique canoe and kayak experiences that go beyond the typical beach day. Whether you’re looking for an active adventure, a relaxed wildlife sighting, or a night-time glow-in-the-dark paddle, Miami’s diverse water tours promise to delight all kinds of travelers. And with options like guided tours and equipment rentals, you can tailor your experience to your interests and fitness level.
Unlike some places where kayaking is just a quick rental, Miami lets you learn about ecosystems like the Osprey Nature Preserve or paddle through mangrove jungles. Plus, the city’s warm climate means many tours are available year-round, making it easy to fit a paddling adventure into your schedule. To help you decide, we’ve compiled a list of the 15 best canoe and kayak experiences in Miami, from tranquil wildlife excursions to stunning night-time paddles.
Quick Overview
This guide covers everything from guided eco tours—like [Private Guided Kayak or SUP Eco Adventure](), which combines wildlife viewing with personalized service—to scenic daytime [Mangrove Jungle Exploration]() tours where you’ll get close to dolphins, crabs, and raccoons. For a more relaxed experience, there are [self-guided rentals]() near Lamar Lake, or if you want a romantic twist, consider a [Night Tour with LED-Lit Kayaks]() with city lights shimmering around you. For wildlife enthusiasts, a [Manatee Season Guided Paddle]() offers a chance to see these gentle creatures—among other marine animals—up close.
Below, each tour offers a distinct flavor of Miami’s water life, so you can pick the perfect adventure for your interests and schedule.
1. Raccoon Island: Exploration on SUP/Kayak
At number 1, the Raccoon Island: Exploration on SUP/Kayak ranks with a 4.7/5 rating based on 731 reviews. For $99 per person, this 3-hour tour takes you through North Miami Beach’s ecosystems, ending at Sandspur Island, which is home to the famously friendly raccoons. The route includes paddling to the Osprey Nature Preserve and exploring Sandspur Island, where you can feed raccoons and snap wildlife photos.
What makes this experience stand out is the chance to connect with nature in a relaxed setting, with plenty of wildlife sightings. Reviewers love the opportunity to feed raccoons and enjoy fresh fruit while soaking up the scenery. Tour guides like Angie and Liam get high praise for their helpfulness and enthusiasm. This tour is perfect for families or wildlife lovers seeking a laid-back, interactive outing.
Bottom Line: A fun, wildlife-focused paddle that combines nature, cute raccoons, and some light exercise—great for a half-day adventure.
2. Nature & Island Exploration on SUP/Kayak
Coming in at 4.5/5 from 759 reviews, this Nature & Island Exploration offers a flexible 2.5-hour trip with equipment included. The standout feature here is the option to choose between stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced paddlers. The route takes you off the beaten path into lush mangrove canals where dolphins, manatees, and raccoons are frequent sightings.
The guide introduces paddlers to local wildlife, and drinks—like beer, seltzers, and water—are included, making it a relaxed, social outing. Reviewers particularly enjoy the seamless organization and the chance to paddle through serene mangroves, spotting various animals. This tour suits travelers who want a guided, wildlife-rich experience without the need for advanced skills.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for nature lovers who want a flexible, beginner-friendly tour with plenty of wildlife spotting and relaxation.
3. Mangrove Jungle Exploration on SUP/Kayak
Ranked perfect with 5.0/5 from 87 reviews, the Mangrove Jungle Exploration offers a 2.5-hour deep dive into the mangrove ecosystem. This tour is especially praised for its interactive approach—guides teach paddlers about the environment while on the water. It’s suitable for all skill levels, and swimming skills aren’t required.
During the tour, you can expect to spot dolphins, crabs, birds, and possibly manatees, with fresh fruit and drinks like watermelon and cantaloupe to refresh you. Many reviews highlight the fun of hand-feeding raccoons or experiencing dolphin sightings up close. Guides like Ashley and Sean make the experience memorable with their enthusiasm and knowledge.
Bottom Line: Perfect for anyone eager to learn about and touch the environment, with wildlife encounters and a relaxed pace.
4. Nature Stand Up Paddle Boarding Experience in Miami
This small-group tour earns a perfect 5.0/5 from 38 reviews. For only $45, you explore Miami’s natural canals and mangroves, paddling to a secluded island. Guides like Hector make beginners feel comfortable, and you’ll likely see birds, fish, and even manatees during the roughly 2-hour trip.
What’s notable is the intimate setting—groups are limited to 10 people—making it ideal for those who want a personal experience. Many reviewers mention how relaxing and freeing the paddle is, with plenty of wildlife photos along the way.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, beginner-friendly paddle that offers peaceful scenery and wildlife viewing.
5. Miami: City Lights SUP or Kayak Night Tour
Rated 4.7/5 from 80 reviews, the Night Tour takes paddlers on the Miami River to enjoy the city’s illuminated skyline. For $79, this 2-hour experience is a perfect way to see Miami’s famous lights from the water, with beer and hard seltzers included.
Guides like Marco and CJ keep the atmosphere lively and fun, and many reviewers praise the stunning city views and the quiet magic of paddling at night. It’s an ideal pick for those seeking a relaxed, scenic evening activity away from the daytime crowds.
Bottom Line: An unforgettable way to enjoy Miami’s skyline and nightlife from the water, with drinks and a relaxed vibe.
6. Manatee Season Guided Paddle Tour from Virginia Key
This tour scores a perfect 5.0/5 from 32 reviews and costs $80 per person. During manatee season (November to April), your guide will take you through Lamar Lake, Biscayne Bay, and possibly the Atlantic coast, in search of these gentle giants.
The tour emphasizes wildlife viewing—dolphins, rays, and herons are also common. The experience is tailored for both paddling and sightseeing, with opportunities for photos and educational commentary from your guide. Many reviewers mention how close they got to manatees and how knowledgeable the guides are.
Bottom Line: An ideal option for wildlife enthusiasts wanting a focused chance to see manatees and other marine animals.
7. Miami: Guided LED-Lit Kayak Night Tour with Drinks
With a 4.7/5 rating from 40 reviews, this LED-lit night tour offers a magical view of Miami’s skyline. For $79, the 2.5-hour tour includes LED-illuminated kayaks, drinks, and a peaceful paddle down the Miami River.
Guides like CJ and Francis ensure safety and fun, with many reviews praising the stunning visuals and friendly atmosphere. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a relaxing, scenic night activity that combines city views with a bit of fun.
Bottom Line: A unique, illuminated paddle that offers stunning cityscapes and a relaxed social vibe—great for a memorable evening.
8. Miami: Beginner-Friendly Island Snorkeling by SUP or Kayak
Rated 4.6/5 from 45 reviews, the Island Snorkeling experience costs $99 and lasts about 2.5 hours. It’s designed for all skill levels, with a lesson included for beginners. You paddle to a tropical island and snorkel among corals, fish, and rays.
The tour is praised for its friendly guides, like Celia and Caleb, and the opportunity to see raccoons and crabs on the island. Reviewers mention the drinks and fruit as welcome refreshers after snorkeling. Some note that water visibility can vary depending on weather.
Bottom Line: An accessible, fun-filled day with snorkeling, wildlife, and tropical scenery—ideal for families and beginners.
9. Miami: Manatee Season Paddleboard or Kayak Tour
This tour, with a 4.8/5 rating from 23 reviews, costs $86 and runs during manatee season. It guides you through Lamar Lake, Biscayne Bay, and the Atlantic coast, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife sightings like dolphins and rays.
Guides like Tom and Frank are experienced and enthusiastic, making each trip educational and fun. Many reviews mention how close they got to manatees—an unforgettable highlight—along with scenic views of both natural and urban Miami.
Bottom Line: A top pick for wildlife lovers eager to see manatees and dolphins while enjoying the city’s waters.
10. Private Guided Kayak or SUP Eco Adventure
Ranking at 5.0/5 from 11 reviews, this private tour costs $99 and offers 2 to 3 hours of personalized exploration of Biscayne Bay. You’ll paddle through mangrove tunnels and visit snorkeling spots—bringing your own gear if you like.
The tour is highly customizable, making it perfect for those seeking a tailored experience. Reviewers appreciate the quiet, scenic environment and the chance to see birds, manatees, and stingrays in a small-group setting.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for those wanting a private, hands-on adventure with a personal touch and flexible itinerary.
How to Choose the Right Canoe & Kayak Experience in Miami
When selecting your ideal Miami water adventure, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. For wildlife sightings, the Manatee Season Guided Paddle or Private Eco Adventure offer a more intimate wildlife encounter. If you prefer city views, the Night Tour or LED-lit Kayak highlight Miami’s skyline in a memorable way.
Budget travelers might find the Kayak and Paddleboard Rentals suitable, while those wanting guided instructions and wildlife insight should opt for tours like Mangrove Jungle Exploration. Book early during peak seasons, especially in winter for manatee sightings.
Final thoughts
Miami offers an impressive variety of canoe and kayak experiences that cater to different tastes—whether you’re after wildlife, scenic city lights, or tranquil nature. Top choices include the Raccoon Island exploration for wildlife lovers, and the LED Night Tour for a magical evening. For a more private adventure, the Eco Guided Tour offers tailored experiences.
If you’re pressed for time, the Paddleboard in Miami or Self-guided Rentals provide flexible options. Whatever your choice, Miami’s waters are calling—so book early and enjoy paddling through one of the most interesting aquatic cities in the US.