Fort Myers offers some of Florida’s best canoe and kayak experiences, thanks to its calm waters, abundant wildlife, and accessible waterways. Unlike more commercialized areas, Fort Myers provides opportunities to explore mangrove tunnels, spot dolphins and manatees, and paddle through peaceful bays—all in a setting that feels authentic and inviting. The area’s diverse options include guided eco tours, private paddles, and rental experiences, making it easy to tailor your adventure to your interests and fitness level. Whether you’re after a relaxing solo outing or a family-friendly tour, Fort Myers has something to satisfy every paddler.
What makes these trips stand out is their focus on local wildlife, top-tier equipment, and small-group personalized experiences. Many tours emphasize eco-awareness and wildlife spotting, often led by guides with extensive local knowledge. To help you choose the best fit, our list covers everything from eco tours exploring mangroves to private sunset paddles, with options suitable for different budgets and levels of adventure.
Quick Overview
Our list features eco kayak tours with premium gear, including Bonita Springs Eco Kayak Tour, which boasts a 5-star rating and provides brand-new Crescent Primos and Crews kayaks for maximum comfort. For those seeking solitude, the Single Kayak Rental on Big Hickory Pass offers a solo adventure in a pristine preserve. If you’re interested in a more immersive experience, the Private Guided Everglades Kayak Tour promises a personalized, wildlife-rich outing at sunset. Those wanting a flexible schedule can opt for lengthy rentals like the Full Day Kayak or SUP Rental in Pelican Bay.
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each of these top-rated options, helping you pick the perfect paddling experience.
1. Bonita Springs Eco Kayak Tour – Best Gear, Premium & Clear Kayaks
At number one, this eco kayak tour is celebrated for its exceptional equipment. With a 5.0/5 rating from 105 reviews, it stands out for providing brand-new Crescent Primos and Crews, ensuring comfort and performance that surpasses typical rental gear. This tour explores Big Hickory Island’s mangrove tunnels, inlets, and secluded beaches, where sightings of dolphins, manatees, and coastal birds are common. The guide Buzz is praised for his easy-going nature, knowledge, and the opportunity for shelling and beach stops.
This experience is perfect for travelers seeking quality gear, engaging wildlife encounters, and a relaxed pace. The two-and-a-half-hour tour offers a nice balance of adventure and leisure, making it a good value at $50 per person. The reviews highlight the beautiful scenery and friendly guide, with one guest noting, “We saw a dolphin and enjoyed the mangroves with an easy-going guide and good equipment.”
Bottom Line: If you want a memorable, wildlife-rich eco tour with superior gear, this is your best choice.
2. Single Kayak Rental on Big Hickory Pass
For those craving independent exploration, this single kayak rental offers 2 hours of peaceful paddling in Fort Myers’ Big Hickory Island Preserve. Rated 5.0/5 from 43 reviews, it’s ideal for solo travelers or couples who want flexibility and solitude. The preserve is home to wading birds, reptiles, mammals, and even nesting loggerhead sea turtles. Renters can choose different times—early morning or sunset—to experience the area at its most beautiful.
This rental includes life vests and paddles, and the relaxed setup allows you to paddle at your own pace. Many guests comment on the serenity and wildlife sightings, including dolphins and manatees. It’s perfect if you prefer self-guided exploration without a fixed schedule or tour group.
Bottom Line: For independent paddlers seeking tranquility and wildlife encounters, this rental provides the freedom and peace of mind.
3. Private Guided Everglades Kayak Tour
This private tour offers a chance to experience the real Everglades at sunset with a focus on wildlife spotting. With a 5.0/5 rating from 43 reviews, it’s highly regarded for its personalized attention and intimate setting. The tour begins at the Big Cypress National Preserve, with launches from Turner River or East River, depending on conditions. Your guide, with 15 years of wildlife expertise, takes you through Big Cypress, searching for alligators, turtles, and numerous bird species.
The sunset timing adds a special magic to the experience, with the chance to see dolphins, manatees, and the night sky emerge. The tour includes snacks, bottled water, and insect repellent, making it comfortable. The private setup ensures less noise and disturbance, ideal for nature enthusiasts or photographers.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for wildlife lovers wanting a personalized, sunset adventure away from crowds.
4. Private Guided Kayak Tour on Big Hickory Pass
If you enjoy guided tours with a personal touch, this 2.5-hour private kayak adventure on Estero Bay is a top pick. It’s rated 5.0/5 from 25 reviews and offers paddling through mangrove tunnels, where you’ll likely spot pelicans, herons, and perhaps a dolphin or manatee. The guide’s local knowledge and enthusiasm shine, making this a rewarding experience for all ages.
The tour is versatile—families with dogs are welcome, and you can bring your own kayak or SUP. Growing up in Southwest Florida, the guide’s passion is evident, and the focus on wildlife and mangroves makes it a standout. It’s an intimate, customizable experience suited for those wanting a deeper connection with nature.
Bottom Line: For those seeking a private, flexible paddling trip with wildlife viewing, this tour offers excellent value.
5. Half Day Kayak or SUP Rental (3hr) – Pelican Bay
This rental is ideal for self-directed explorers wanting to paddle at their own pace. Rated 5.0/5 from 22 reviews, it offers 3 hours to navigate Pelican Bay’s mangrove tunnels and wildlife habitats. Renters can choose between kayaks or stand-up paddleboards, with options for 1- to 5-person kayaks. The flexibility means you can craft your route, seeking dolphins, birds, or shells at your leisure.
Guests appreciate the enthusiastic, informative staff, and the chance to see wildlife close-up, including dolphins and manatees. The rental is well-suited for families or groups wanting a relaxed, independent adventure.
Bottom Line: For flexible, budget-friendly water exploration, this half-day rental delivers a peaceful experience.
6. Guided Kayak Dolphin Eco Tour in Pelican Bay
Rated 5.0/5 from 19 reviews, this eco tour offers up to 3 hours of paddling in Pelican Bay, with a focus on dolphins, manatees, and birdlife. The two-seater kayaks are perfect for families or couples. The guide takes you through mangrove-lined creeks and canals, with the option to customize your route.
Many reviewers mention dolphin sightings and birdwatching, with one noting, “We saw a pod of dolphins and a manatee—amazing experience.” The tour is suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers, and all equipment, including lifejackets, is provided.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wildlife fans wanting a guided, intimate cruise through calm waters.
7. Half Day Kayak or SUP Rental (3hr) – Bunche Beach
Rated 4.5/5 from 47 reviews, this serene beachside rental offers 1.5 hours of independent paddling. Bunche Beach is perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and paddle through mangrove and tidal creek environments. Renters can choose between kayaks and SUPs, with stability suitable for beginners and options for fishing kayaks.
Guests often mention dolphins, turtles, and alligators, with one saying, “Great scenery, and we saw dolphins near the homes.” It’s especially good for small groups or families wanting a relaxed, natural experience with all necessary gear included.
Bottom Line: For a peaceful, wildlife-rich half-day on the water, this is a top pick.
8. Naples Guided Sunset Kayak Tour Activity
This sunset kayak tour in Naples uses the Hobie Pedal Mirage Drives, making it unique in the area. Rated 5.0/5 from 8 reviews, it’s praised for easy paddling and the spectacular sunset views. The owner, Mike, supplies kayak coolers with ice and bottled water, adding to the comfort. The effortless peddling allows you to cover more water during the evening, with pictures taken by the guide to remember your trip.
Guests enjoy the calm waters and scenic twilight, with some noting how smooth and effortless the experience was. It’s suitable for those wanting a relaxing, scenic paddle at dusk.
Bottom Line: A great choice for couples or groups seeking a memorable sunset paddle with minimal effort.
9. Guided Kayak Sunset Tour in Pelican Bay at Fort Myers Beach
Rated 5.0/5 from 8 reviews, this guided sunset tour takes you through calm mangrove bays and shrimping islands. The timing at sunset makes for a breathtaking backdrop as you look out for dolphins, manatees, and a variety of birds. The tour’s focus on calm waters and wildlife makes it suitable for all skill levels.
Tour participants rave about the “magical experience” of watching the birds fly to roost while enjoying Southwest Florida’s stunning sunset. The tour lasts about 2 hours and provides an intimate, peaceful paddling experience.
Bottom Line: For a family-friendly, scenic evening, this tour offers a relaxing way to end your day.
10. Full Day Kayak or SUP Rental (8hr) – Bunche Beach
This full-day rental is ideal for explorers who want to spend all day on the water. Rated 5.0/5 from 8 reviews, it includes maps and all necessary gear to paddle through 700 acres of tidal wetlands. You can choose a fishing kayak or tandem setup, making it perfect for families or anglers. The long rental window lets you paddle at your leisure, stopping for a picnic or to enjoy the scenery.
Many users mention dolphin and turtle sightings, praising the peace and solitude this provides. It’s especially suited for advanced paddlers or those serious about nature.
Bottom Line: For all-day exploring with maximum flexibility, this rental offers great value.
11. Kayaking the Canals of Venice, FL
This 2-hour tour takes you through the historic canals of Venice, Florida, with a focus on wildlife and scenery. Rated 5.0/5 from 7 reviews, it’s a fun detour from Fort Myers. Paddle across the intercoastal waterway to Manatee Key and explore seashells and shark teeth on nearby beaches.
The guides are knowledgeable about the ecosystem of Alligator Creek, and the tour is suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. One reviewer calls it, “Very fun experience, loved the calm waters and finding shark teeth.”
Bottom Line: Ideal for history and wildlife enthusiasts wanting a short, guided paddling trip.
12. 1 Hour Guided SUP/Kayak Tour in Pelican Bay at Fort Myers Beach
Rated 5.0/5 from 5 reviews, this quick guided tour offers an easy introduction to paddling. You’ll explore mangroves and shallow bays, with manatees and dolphins often seen along the way. The small group size and included life jackets make it beginner-friendly.
The tour is perfect for a short, relaxing adventure with all gear provided, making it accessible for everyone. Many reviewers love the informative guides and encountered wildlife.
Bottom Line: For a brief, family-friendly paddling experience, this tour delivers.
13. Beginner One Hour Guided Kayaking and SUP Activity
If you’re new to kayaking, this one-hour beginner tour is excellent. It’s rated 5.0/5 from 4 reviews, emphasizing learning the sport in the backwaters of Big Hickory. The guide, who is praised for helpfulness and friendliness, helps ensure safety and confidence on the water.
This tour is ideal for first-timers or families wanting a gentle introduction. Equipment is included, and many comment on how easy and enjoyable the experience was. It’s a practical choice for getting comfortable with paddling.
Bottom Line: Perfect for beginners wanting a low-pressure, guided introduction to kayaking.
14. Full Day Kayak or SUP Rental (8hr) – Pelican Bay
This full-day rental ranks highly for flexibility and independence. Rated 5.0/5 from just 1 review, it offers 8 hours of paddling, with options for fishing kayaks and tandem setups. You can explore mangroves, bays, and beaches at your own pace, ideal for those wanting total control over their water day.
Many users mention dolphin and bird sightings and appreciate the included maps and gear, which help in planning a self-guided day.
Bottom Line: Best suited for experienced paddlers or those seeking a private, all-day adventure.
How to Choose the Right Canoe & Kayak Experience in Fort Myers
Picking between these options depends on your budget, schedule, and interests. If you prefer a guided wildlife adventure, the Bonita Springs Eco Kayak Tour or the Private Everglades Tour are excellent. For those wanting more independence, rentals like the Pelican Bay half-day or Bunche Beach full-day offer flexible schedules.
Consider your fitness level: beginner tours and rentals are perfect for newcomers, while intermediate and advanced paddlers might enjoy longer or private excursions. Booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons, and always check the weather forecast for calm waters.
Final Thoughts
Fort Myers offers a diverse range of paddling experiences, from guided wildlife tours that get you close to dolphins and manatees to independent rentals for exploring at your own pace. For a premium experience, the Bonita Springs Eco Kayak Tour stands out with its high-quality equipment and knowledgeable guides. Meanwhile, private sunset trips, like the Sunset Kayak Tour in Naples, promise breathtaking views and peaceful paddling.
No matter your choice, these experiences make for memorable ways to enjoy Fort Myers’ waterways and wildlife. Book early, prepare for the weather, and get ready to see Florida from a whole new perspective.